New Delhi: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has revealed that appearing for class 10 and 12 board exams twice a year will now be optional for students. This move aims to alleviate the stress caused by the fear of a single opportunity and will allow students to choose the best score from their attempts, similar to the engineering entrance exam, JEE. Pradhan emphasized that this option would not be mandatory.

Pradhan explained that students often experience stress, fearing that they may have missed a year or could have performed better. The introduction of optional biannual exams is intended to reduce this stress, offering students more flexibility in their academic journey. Students who feel prepared and satisfied with their initial exam results can choose not to appear for subsequent exams. The New Curriculum Framework (NCF), announced by the Ministry of Education in August, includes the provision for biannual board examinations. This change aims to provide students with sufficient time and opportunities to perform well and retain their best scores.

Pradhan stated that he has received positive feedback from students regarding this plan and hopes to implement biannual board exams from 2024 onwards. Addressing the issue of student suicides in Kota, Rajasthan, where many aspirants prepare for competitive exams like JEE and NEET, Pradhan expressed concern and emphasized the collective responsibility to ensure that students are stress-free.

Pradhan also highlighted the issue of 'dummy schools,' stating that it cannot be ignored. These schools are often used by students who do not attend full-time classes but directly appear for board exams. The minister called for serious discussions and deliberations on this subject. Regarding the Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE), which has not met in the last three years, Pradhan mentioned that it is being reconstituted to align with the demands of the new education system introduced by the National Education Policy.

Pradhan further discussed the establishment of offshore campuses by Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) in collaboration with foreign countries. He mentioned that two IITs, Delhi and Madras, are progressing in this direction, and talks are ongoing with several other countries interested in such collaborations. In addition, Pradhan stated that guidelines for foreign universities to establish campuses in India are under deliberation and will be notified soon. He emphasized the government's commitment to nurturing learners equipped with both academic and practical skills, with a focus on creating synergy between education and skill development.

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