The Maharashtra Common Entrance Test Cell has taken a significant step forward. They launched a new district outreach program. This initiative aims to boost awareness about various CET examinations. It also highlights higher education options available after these exams.
Targeting Low Registration Districts
The program specifically targets districts with consistently low registration numbers. These include Dhule, Nandurbar, and Nanded. Low participation in these areas points to clear gaps in awareness about professional education pathways.
Every year, over ten lakh candidates register for various CETs. These exams are conducted by the state CET Cell. They cover admissions to professional courses in engineering, pharmacy, agriculture, and fine arts.
Despite these large numbers, a significant problem persists. Many eligible students, especially in underdeveloped districts and rural areas, lack proper information. They remain unaware of the full range of CETs and post-exam admission options.
A Shift to In-Person Engagement
The outreach program will run in phases. It is scheduled ahead of the CETs for the 2026–27 academic year. This new approach marks a clear shift from previous years.
Previously, guidance was largely limited to online information. Now, the CET Cell focuses on direct, in-person interactions. Expert officers from the Cell across multiple domains will meet students and parents.
These sessions will explain entrance examinations in detail. They will cover the CET registration process, the admission system, and the centralised admission process known as CAP.
Phase One Kicks Off in Dhule
Phase one of the outreach programme began recently. The first session was held in Dhule on a Sunday. The remaining districts in this initial phase are Akola, Nanded, and Wardha.
Sessions in these areas are scheduled between January 18 and January 25. This structured rollout ensures a methodical approach to covering key regions.
Official Statement on Program Goals
Commissioner of the Maharashtra CET Cell, Dilip Sardesai, explained the program's structure. He stated these are in-person sessions where students and parents can interact directly with faculty-experts from the CET Cell.
"They will not only educate students on the process of the CET followed by the Common Admission Process," Sardesai said. "They will also provide broad information on course-wise future prospects available for students."
The core idea is to boost representation. The Cell wants more students from underdeveloped districts of Maharashtra to join professional courses.
Ensuring Wider Access Through Technology
The Dhule session was live-streamed on the CET Cell's social media platforms. This move ensured wider access for students who could not attend in person.
Sardesai emphasized this point. "Other students might have similar doubts as those who attended the sessions," he noted. "Considering this, recordings of these sessions will be available for students to view at any time."
This hybrid model combines physical outreach with digital accessibility. It represents a comprehensive strategy to bridge the information gap across the state.
