The Ministry of Education refers to the letter on the PTK (Competency Level Assessment) examination for teachers by M.T of Johor Baru (”Misery for DG44 Teacher”– NST, July 24).

The implementation of the PTK by the Education Ministry is empowered by the Public Service Department through Service Circular No 4/2002 and Service Circular Letter 5/2005.

The UAK (Ujian Akhir Kursus) results of PTK 2/2007 (Repeat) for DG44 candidates show that 71 per cent of them passed the level of competency (Level IV/III) and 29 per cent failed to achieve level of competency (Level II / I).

Of the DG48 candidates who took the PTK exam, 74.3 per cent passed the level of competency and 25.7 per cent failed. This proves that the number of candidates passing at the level of competency is higher compared with those who obtained Level I/ II.

Candidates are evaluated based on their ability to convert abstract content to concrete situations based on their workplace/teaching profession. Most candidates fail to comply with expected levels of competency, achieving only Level I and Level II.

The Education Ministry is proposing a job-based and workplace competency assessment and is awaiting approval for this from the Competency Assessment Board.

RUBAAYAH OSMAN for Secretary-General of the Education Ministry

Source: NST – August 6, 2008