In a significant policy shift to strengthen teaching quality across its affiliated schools, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has made it mandatory for all teachers to complete 50 hours of training annually. This initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the newly introduced National Professional Standards for Teachers (NPST).
Training Made Mandatory from 2025
According to two circulars released by CBSE on April 1, 2025, teachers must engage in 50 hours of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) during each academic year. The training is structured into three key categories:
- Core Values and Ethics – 12 hours
- Knowledge and Practice – 24 hours
- Professional Growth and Development – 14 hours
At least 25 hours must be completed through CBSE-run programmes or government-affiliated training institutes, while the remaining 25 hours may include in-house workshops, peer-led sessions, or participation in collaborative local initiatives.
Expanded Scope of Training
CBSE has broadened what qualifies as professional development, allowing various academic and extracurricular contributions to count toward the 50-hour requirement. Valid activities now include:
- Involvement in CBSE board examination duties
- Research contributions or academic paper writing
- Participation in CBSE conferences
- Creation of digital learning content
This flexibility ensures that educators’ efforts beyond the classroom are formally recognized as part of their professional growth.
STEM as the Training Focus for 2025
For the 2025 academic year, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education has been designated as the central theme. Teachers will undergo training in hands-on, inquiry-based, and interdisciplinary STEM practices. CBSE has encouraged schools to organise District Level Deliberations (DLDs) to promote innovation and shared learning in this domain.
Leadership’s Role in Professional Growth
Heads of institutions have been instructed to play an active role in promoting continuous learning. The Board expects school leaders to:
- Ensure all teachers meet the 50-hour requirement
- Maintain proper documentation of training activities
- Encourage collaborative, research-based, and tech-integrated teaching methods
CBSE emphasized that compliance with the updated CPD framework is mandatory and integral to maintaining school affiliation. Schools that fail to comply may face administrative consequences.
