Author: Debdatta Maity
DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.70798/Bijmrd/04020019
Abstract: Student enrolment trends play a crucial role in determining the institutional viability of private B.Ed. colleges in West Bengal. Over the past few years, many private teacher education institutions have experienced noticeable changes in student admissions, which directly affect their academic functioning, financial stability, and long-term sustainability. This study aims to examine the patterns of student enrolment in private B.Ed. colleges and analyze how these trends influence their institutional viability. The study follows a qualitative approach based on secondary data sources such as government reports, admission statistics, policy documents, accreditation records, and existing research studies on teacher education. The analysis shows that declining student enrolment has emerged as a major challenge for many private B.Ed. colleges in West Bengal. Factors such as reduced demand for B.Ed. programmes, limited employment opportunities for trained teachers, strict admission norms, and increased competition among institutions have contributed to this decline. Policy changes related to eligibility criteria, intake capacity, and entrance examinations have also influenced enrolment patterns. As a result, several colleges face difficulties in maintaining optimal student strength each academic year. The study further reveals that lower enrolment directly affects institutional viability. Since most private B.Ed. colleges depend largely on student fees; reduced admissions lead to financial stress, difficulty in maintaining infrastructure, and challenges in retaining qualified faculty. Some institutions struggle to meet regulatory and accreditation requirements due to limited resources. Rural and newly established colleges are found to be more vulnerable compared to well-established urban institutions. The study concludes that improving enrolment trends is essential for ensuring the viability of private B.Ed. colleges in West Bengal. Better alignment of teacher education programmes with employment needs, supportive policy measures, academic quality enhancement, and career guidance for students can help institutions remain sustainable and continue contributing to teacher education in the state.
Keywords: Student Enrolment Trends, Institutional Viability, Private B.Ed. Colleges, Teacher Education,Higher Education Sustainability, West Bengal.
Page No: 159-165