The upcoming Rajasthan Eligibility Examination for Teachers (REET) is set to take place on February 27 and 28, 2025, with extensive preparations underway to manage one of the largest teacher recruitment efforts. This year, more than 14 lakh candidates are expected to participate, competing for positions as eligible teachers across the state.
On February 27, the examination will be conducted for Level 1 and Level 2, with Level 3 scheduled for February 28. According to Mahesh Chandra Sharma, the administrator for the Rajasthan Board of Secondary Education (RBSE), stringent measures have been introduced to maintain integrity during the examination process. For the first time, face recognition technology will be utilized alongside biometric attendance to deter cheating.
"The use of face recognition technology for the first time aims to increase transparency and prevent malpractices, with biometric verification being implemented," said Sharma. This initiative reflects the board's commitment to conducting fair examinations, ensuring candidates adhere to predefined entry protocols.
Candidates are reminded of the dress code they must follow when appearing for the exam. Men are advised to wear simple kurtas or button-down shirts without metal buttons and to avoid any kind of accessories. Comfortable footwear like sandals or slippers is recommended. Women may opt for either salwar-kameez or sarees, but are advised against wearing jewelry, including earrings and bracelets, at the exam centers.
The examination is to be conducted at various designated centers throughout Rajasthan, with candidates encouraged to download their admit cards from the official website, ensuring they have the proper documentation on the day of the exam. Specific instructions state candidates will not be allowed to enter the examination hall after 9 AM for both the first and last shifts, and anyone arriving late for the second shift after 2 PM will also be denied entry.
Management efforts include overseeing the exam centers with large numbers of CCTV cameras to monitor activities and maintain order. Each exam center will have appointed supervisors, including district administrators, to oversee the process. The exam's timing has also been structured, with Level 1 conducted from 10 AM to 1:30 PM and Level 2 from 3 PM to 5:30 PM. This schedule facilitates the participation of as many candidates as possible.
Candidates are urged to be thorough with their preparations, which includes familiarizing themselves with the exam format and practicing under exam conditions. They must bring printed copies of their admit cards along with valid identity proof, such as an Aadhaar card or driver’s license, as entry will be denied without these documents.
With the exam now just days away, candidates are digesting new elements introduced this year. For example, exam officials were recently trained to apply systems ensuring smooth operation during the test and to be mindful of any potential issues. Monitoring for any past offenders barred from participating due to previous examination irregularities is also being reinforced.
After the examination period, RBSE plans to release provisional answers and final results following the scrutiny of any challenges filed concerning the answer key. This iterative process not only increases transparency but provides candidates with opportunities to voice any concerns.
Experts recommend candidates review exam strategies carefully. For example, answering strategies will be even more important this year with the introduction of extra time allocations for marking certain answers. Candidates should take practice tests to improve their speed and accuracy before facing the live exams.
The Rajasthan Board hopes to build upon the examination's reputation by ensuring fairness and efficiency, setting the bar high not just for candidates but for itself as well. The preparation continues amid excitement and nervousness, fostering the hope of achieving success among the thousands who have worked hard to prepare for this pivotal moment.