“To Analyse and Juxtapose the Teacher Education Systems of India and Finland, Specifically Highlighting the Roles of Regulatory Institutions in Shaping Teacher Preparation and Governance"

Abstract

Teacher education systems play a pivotal role in shaping the quality of education, yet they vary significantly across nations. This study undertakes a comparative analysis of teacher education in India and Finland, focusing on the influence of regulatory institutions in governing teacher preparation. Finland’s education system is globally renowned for its high-performing teachers and decentralized, trust-based governance, whereas India’s system is characterized by centralized regulatory bodies, such as the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE), and evolving reforms aimed at improving teacher quality.

Using a qualitative research approach, this paper examines the structural frameworks, policy mandates, and institutional mechanisms governing teacher education in both countries. Finland’s success is attributed to its rigorous selection process, research-based training, and autonomy granted to universities, whereas India faces challenges such as inconsistent regulatory enforcement, variable program quality, and a lack of uniformity in teacher preparation standards. The study highlights how Finland’s Ministry of Education and Culture, along with universities, fosters a culture of professionalism, while India’s regulatory system struggles with bureaucratic inefficiencies and implementation gaps.

Key findings suggest that Finland’s flexible, competency-based approach ensures teacher autonomy and continuous professional development, while India’s centralized system requires structural reforms to enhance accountability and pedagogical innovation. The study concludes with policy recommendations for India, emphasizing decentralized governance, stronger institutional collaboration, and research-integrated teacher training to align with global best practices. This comparative analysis contributes to the discourse on teacher education reform, offering insights for policymakers and educators striving to enhance teacher preparation systems.