Panaji: The Centre sanctioned Rs 15 crore to Goa in 2023 to upgrade the district institute of education and training (DIET), Porvorim, into a centre of excellence under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The institute was among 619 govt-run teacher training institutions across the country selected for the initiative, aimed at strengthening teacher education and training.However, a central review team has flagged delays in implementation and urged Goa to expedite the project.“It was noted that DIET, North Goa was sanctioned under the first phase of the scheme. However, progress in implementation has been slow. The Goa education secretary, state project director for Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and director state council for educational research and training were requested to personally monitor implementation and ensure timely completion of approved activities,” the Union education ministry’s Project Approval Board said during its annual review of Samagra Shiksha implementation in Goa.The Centre also expressed concern over Goa’s relatively low allocation for teacher education under Samagra Shiksha and urged the state to give greater priority to teacher training and capacity building.The review found that around 20% of posts at the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) remain vacant.“It was emphasised that all vacancies in SCERT should be filled on priority, preferably on a regular basis, or through deputation as an interim arrangement. It was further directed that release of funds for DIETs would be linked with maintenance of adequate academic faculty positions. The state informed that separate recruitment rules have been prepared and permanent recruitment is expected during FY 2026-27,” the meeting minutes stated.The project involves construction of a three-storey building at the existing DIET campus in Porvorim. A primary school will also be attached to the institute, a key requirement under the NEP framework.As centres of excellence, DIETs are expected to undertake research studies, pilot projects and develop effective teaching methodologies to address local educational challenges. The attached school will provide a platform for practical training, innovation and evidence-based research.The upgraded campus will include smart classrooms, laboratories, a digitised library and digital learning infrastructure to support teachers’ professional development. DIET, which previously functioned under the directorate of education, will now operate under SCERT, reflecting its expanded role in pre-service and in-service teacher training under NEP 2020.
