CBSE Class XII exams cancelled amid pandemic

Gulf Today Report

In view of the uncertain conditions due to COVID-19 and the feedback obtained from various stakeholders, it was decided that Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) Class XII Board exams would not be held this year, according to a press release issued by CBSE on Tuesday.

It was also decided that CBSE will take steps to compile the results of class XII students as per a well-defined objective criteria in a time-bound manner

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the decision on class 12 CBSE exams has been taken in the interest of students.

He stated that COVID-19 has affected the academic calendar and the issue of Board exams has been causing immense anxiety among students, parents and teachers, which must be put to an end.

PM said that the COVID-19 situation is a dynamic situation across the country. While the numbers are coming down in the country and some states are managing the situation through effective micro-containment, some states have still opted for a lockdown.Students, parents and teachers are naturally worried about the health of the students in such a situation.

PM said that students should not be forced to appear for exams in such a stressful situation.
 
The Prime Minister stressed that the health and safety of our students is of utmost importance and there would be no compromise on this aspect.

He said that in today’s time, such exams cannot be the reason to put our youth at risk.
 
PM said that all stakeholders need to show sensitivity for students. PM directed officials to ensure that the results are prepared in accordance with well-defined criteria, in a fair and time-bound manner.
 
Referring to the wide consultative process, PM expressed appreciation that a student friendly decision has been reached after consulting all stakeholders from across the length and breadth of India. He also thanked the States for providing feedback on this issue.
 
It was also decided that like last year, in case some students desire to take the exams, such an option would be provided to them by CBSE, as and when the situation becomes conducive.
 
The prime minister had earlier held a high-level meeting on 21/05/21 which was attended by Ministers & officials.

Thereafter a meeting under the Chairmanship of Union Defence Minister was held on 23.05.2021 which was attended by the Education Minsters of States.

Various options for conduct of CBSE examinations were discussed in the meeting and feedback obtained from the States and UTs.
 
Tuesday’s meeting was attended by Union Ministers of Home, Defence, Finance, Commerce, Information and Broadcasting, Petroleum and Women and Child Development Ministries and Principal Secretary to PM, Cabinet Secretary and Secretaries of School Education and Higher Education Departments and other officials.