The Directorate of Technical Education (DTE) made a significant announcement on Monday, shaping the future of aspiring engineering and pharmacy students for the academic year 2024-25. In a groundbreaking move, the DTE declared that candidates seeking admission to engineering degree courses must now tackle the Joint Entrance Exam (JEE-Main) in 2024, organized by the National Testing Agency (NTA), during two sessions in January and April of that year.
This pivotal decision signals the end of the road for the Goa Common Entrance Test (GCET), a long-standing tradition since 2005 in determining merit for engineering degree admissions. The GCET, typically taken by around 2,500 students annually, has been retired, giving way to the national-level JEE-Main. This bold step is aimed at relieving students of the stress associated with multiple entrance exams and ensuring fair competition on a broader scale.
For those aspiring to join BPharm courses, the DTE has introduced an innovative criterion for admission. Students can secure their places based on the best aggregate score in physics and chemistry, derived from either JEE-Main 2024 or the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) 2024. As a result, BPharm aspirants have the flexibility to opt for JEE Main, NEET, or both exams to enhance their chances of securing a spot in their desired programs.
The five engineering colleges in Goa affected by these changes are the Goa College of Engineering in Farmagudi, PCC College in Verna, Rayeshwar College in Shiroda, Don Bosco Engineering College in Fatorda, and the Agnel Institute of Design in Assagao. Collectively, these institutions offer approximately 1,500 seats for engineering aspirants. Furthermore, admissions to the National Institutes of Technology (NIT) will also adhere to the same selection criteria, adding prestige to this new process.
To ensure transparency and proper guidance for all applicants, the DTE has urged aspiring candidates to meticulously review the information regarding JEE Main 2024, which is available on the official website. This includes details on the examination scheme, eligibility criteria, syllabus, online application procedures, and other relevant information.
The schedule for JEE Main 2024 consists of two rounds. The first round is set to take place from January 24 to February 1, 2024, with the second session following from April 1 to April 15, 2024. Interestingly, the first round dates slightly overlap with the Class XII Board examinations, which are scheduled from February 28 to March 12 of the same year. This dynamic interplay between the board exams and JEE Main adds a unique dimension to the 2024 admissions process, making it a pivotal year for students and educators alike.
The NEET examination, another significant event for aspiring medical professionals, is slated for May 5, further emphasizing the importance of JEE Main and NEET in shaping the academic future of India’s budding engineers and healthcare practitioners. The changes announced by the DTE are a testament to the evolving landscape of education and entrance exams, with a strong focus on reducing stress and ensuring a level playing field for all candidates.
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