In a significant move, the Tamil Nadu government has commenced free coaching for competitive examinations such as NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) and JEE (Joint Entrance Examination) in state-run schools. This initiative aims to provide government school students with the necessary support to excel in these crucial exams.Despite the DMK government’s strong opposition to NEET, the school education department is ensuring that medical aspirants in government schools across Tamil Nadu receive free coaching until the exam is potentially scrapped. This commitment underscores the government’s dedication to supporting students’ aspirations in the current examination framework.
In addition to NEET, the state government is also providing free coaching for students aiming to secure admissions in prestigious institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and National Institutes of Technology (NITs).
G. Arivoli, the director of school education, confirmed the commencement of free coaching for government school students. In 2023, approximately 25,000 students benefited from the free NEET coaching program, according to another senior official from the school education department.
An official stated that it is imperative for all medical aspirants in Tamil Nadu’s government schools to receive training until NEET is abolished. A committee led by the Chief Education Officer (CEO) and comprising subject matter experts has been formed in each district to oversee the program. Teachers for the free coaching sessions will be selected based on their teaching skills to ensure high-quality instruction.