CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu Directorate of Elementary Education (DEE) has issued fresh instructions to strengthen the verification of educational certificates submitted by teachers working in government and local-body schools, aiming to ensure that appointments are supported by genuine qualifications.

In a circular, the department outlined procedures for verifying the genuineness of certificates of teachers serving in panchayat union, government, municipal, corporation and government-aided schools. The directions also cover newly appointed teachers.

According to the circular, educational certificates should be forwarded to the concerned university, educational institution, examination board or government examination authority for authentication. Verification must be completed promptly after a teacher joins service instead of being delayed for several years, insisted the circular.

The department noted that delays in obtaining genuineness certificates could create administrative difficulties, particularly when teachers seek transfers, promotions or other service benefits. Officials have therefore been instructed to maintain proper records and closely monitor the progress of certificate verification.

The circular also warned that if a certificate was found to be fake or invalid, appropriate departmental action should be initiated without delay. Where necessary, further action should be taken through the competent authorities in accordance with existing procedures.

District educational authorities have been directed to communicate these instructions to the relevant officers and ensure strict compliance. The move is intended to streamline certificate authentication, prevent the use of fraudulent qualifications and ensure that only properly qualified teachers continue in educational service.