In a recent announcement, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan revealed that the mandatory annual Class 10 and 12 board exams will soon be a thing of the past. The government’s decision to allow students to appear for these crucial exams twice a year is a welcome relief for many. New Education Policy also aims to alleviate the pressure associated with a single opportunity.
Minister Pradhan stressed the importance of addressing the issue of ‘dummy schools’ while highlighting the need for substantial discussions on this matter. Students will now have the option to take the Class 10 and 12 board exams twice annually, mirroring the format of the JEE engineering entrance exam. The added flexibility enables students to choose their best score, but it is important to note that participation in these additional exams will be entirely optional.
Minister Pradhan explained, “Students often experience extreme stress, worrying about losing a year or missing an opportunity to perform better. Government will introduce this option to reduce the fear associated with a single chance
Furthermore, he emphasized that if a student feels adequately prepared and satisfied with their score in the first set of exams, they can opt not to appear for the subsequent ones. This change ensures that no aspect of the process is compulsory, offering students more control over their academic journey.
Back in August, the Ministry of Education introduced the New Curriculum Framework (NCF). Under this framework, government will conduct board examinations twice a year, providing students with ample time and opportunities to perform at their best and retain their highest scores..
Minister Pradhan expressed his optimism about this new approach to board exams, sharing, “I’ve received positive feedback from students since the introduction of the New Curriculum Framework (NCF). They appreciate this concept and are content with the idea. We are actively working towards implementing biannual exams starting from 2024.”
Addressing a sensitive issue, Minister Pradhan also spoke about the tragic suicides in Kota, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. “No lives should be lost. These students are our children, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure they are free from excessive stress,” he affirmed. The government’s initiative to make board exams more flexible and less stressful is a significant step toward prioritizing the well-being of students across the country in New Education Policy.