In a groundbreaking move aimed at alleviating the stress and anxiety faced by students, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has announced that students will soon have the option of appearing for their class 10 and 12 board exams twice a year, similar to the format of engineering entrance exams like JEE.
Under this new initiative, students will not be compelled to appear for the board exams twice; it will be entirely optional. The primary objective is to reduce the immense pressure and fear associated with a single opportunity. Minister Pradhan emphasized that the fear of losing a year or not performing to the best of their abilities often causes immense stress among students. This bi-annual exam option aims to provide students with flexibility and reduce the anxiety associated with the traditional once-a-year board exams.
Minister Pradhan stated, “The students often get stressed thinking they lost a year, their chance is gone, or they could have performed better… the option is being introduced to reduce the stress caused by the fear of a single opportunity.”
This initiative aligns with the New Curriculum Framework (NCF) announced by the Ministry of Education in August. The bi-annual board examinations will ensure that students have ample time and opportunities to excel academically while also allowing them to retain their best scores.
The proposal to conduct board exams twice a year has garnered positive feedback from students, with many appreciating the flexibility it offers. Minister Pradhan is actively working towards implementing this change, with the aim of introducing bi-annual board exams from the year 2024.
In light of the recent incidents of student suicides, particularly in Kota, Rajasthan, Minister Pradhan expressed deep concern and called it a sensitive issue. He stressed the collective responsibility of society to ensure that students are provided with a supportive and stress-free environment to pursue their education.
This move by the Ministry of Education is expected to bring about a significant shift in the education landscape, focusing on students’ mental well-being and academic success.
