Teachers education institute to be revamped

BANGI: THE Malaysian Teachers Education Institute (IPGM) must be reviewed to ensure only quality teachers are produced.

Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said such a review would enhance the teaching profession.

"Teachers play an important and holistic role in the development of human capital and the country's education achievements depend on them.

"Thus, the review is necessary to elevate the profession and service," Muhyiddin said.

The text of his speech was read by the Education Ministry director-general Tan Sri Abd Ghafar Mahmud at a meeting with the IPGM trainee teachers here yesterday.

Muhyiddin said among the areas targeted for improvement were the management system, administration, training module and infrastructure facilities.

He said the ministry realised that there was a need for changes in certain areas of the current system, which must be thoroughly checked.

"A conducive work environment and a comfortable learning environment are important for both the IPGM staff as well as students," said Muhyiddin, who is also education minister.

"In line with the New Education Blueprint (2013-2025), I hope IPGM will continue its relevance in training and producing more knowledgeable and excellent teachers."

At the function, Ghafar handed over "Kad Diskaun Siswa 1Malaysia" to 1,500 IPGM trainee teachers.

To date, 231 companies with 2,414 outlets nationwide, including cooperatives, have pledged their support for the initiative.