The Maharashtra Higher and Technical Education Department, in collaboration with state universities, is set to launch School Connect 2.0, a transformative campaign from January 1 to 15, 2025, targeting students from Standards IX to XII. This initiative aims to raise awareness about higher education opportunities, scholarships, and valuable resources like the SATHEE portal.
Developed by the Ministry of Education and IIT Kanpur, SATHEE (Self-Assessment, Test, and Help for Entrance Examination) provides free guidance for competitive exams such as JEE and NEET, offering critical support to students unable to afford expensive coaching classes.
The campaign will also serve as a platform to familiarize students and parents with the National Education Policy (NEP), which was implemented in Maharashtra during the 2023-24 academic year. Key features include flexible, credit-based curricula, interdisciplinary studies, and skill-based education programmes like the Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programme and SWAYAM.
Universities across the state will conduct workshops in partnership with affiliated junior colleges and schools. These sessions will spotlight new skill-development courses, internships, and central government initiatives such as the Vidya Lakshmi Loan Scheme, which provides educational loans for higher studies.
Resource persons from universities and colleges will receive specialized training to deliver these workshops effectively. The campaign will also highlight opportunities in open and distance learning, innovative professional courses, and employment-oriented pathways after Std X.
To provide practical exposure, students will participate in campus tours to explore university infrastructure and academic programmes. According to a government resolution, this initiative aims to bridge the gap between high school education and higher studies, equipping students with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions about their future.
With School Connect 2.0, the Maharashtra government aspires to build a strong foundation for students' academic and professional journeys while ensuring inclusivity and accessibility in education.
