Private Schools to Conduct RTE Lottery Between January 6-17, 2024
Key Points:
- 75% of general seats to be allotted through a lottery system.
- Schools must upload lottery videography for transparency.
- Over 70,000 applications received for 6,000 available seats.
JAMSHEDPUR – The District Education Department has released guidelines for the admission process in private schools, ensuring a transparent and fair selection under the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act. The lottery for 75% of general category seats will take place between January 6 and January 17, 2024.
As per directives from the District Education Superintendent and Nodal Officer of the RTE Cell, schools must announce the lottery date and submit the list of eligible candidates by January 4, 2024. The entire lottery process will be conducted under strict supervision to maintain transparency and fairness.
“The lottery process will take place in the presence of education department supervisors. Schools must videograph the process and upload it to their websites,” said an official from the District Education Department. An independent observer will also oversee the proceedings, which will include the participation of at least five parents of eligible children.
For further accountability, schools are required to submit all selected candidates’ details to the District Education Superintendent’s office in CD or hard copy format. If the process involves software-based lotteries, a copy of the software must also be provided.
The application process for admissions to general category seats concluded in November, with over 70,000 applications received for approximately 6,000 available seats. Schools are currently scrutinizing the applications, and this process is expected to conclude by December 25, 2023.
“Schools are thoroughly reviewing applications to ensure eligibility and compliance with criteria. The lottery will be held as per schedule,” stated a spokesperson for the District Education Department.
By January 4, 2024, schools must submit details of general and reserved category seat allocations to the DSE office. Following the lottery, selected students’ lists will be displayed on school notice boards and uploaded to the school websites. The final admission list will be available on January 18, 2024, alongside a videographed record of the selection process.
“All schools are mandated to preserve proof of the enrolment process to ensure transparency and prevent future disputes,” the official added.
This initiative aims to provide equal opportunities for all children while maintaining a fair and accountable admission process under RTE guidelines.
