Maharashtra State Board Implements Flying Squads To Keep Watch On Class X And XII Practical Exams
Pune, 11th January 2024: In a proactive move to address growing concerns over the integrity of practical exams for Class X and XII, the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) has introduced stringent measures for the upcoming examinations. Recognizing the tendency of educational institutions to award grades indiscriminately, the board has established flying squads to monitor and ensure the fair conduct of internal assessments.
The flying squads, comprised of board officials and experienced teachers, will conduct surprise visits to various schools and colleges during the practical examinations. This initiative aims to curb the practice of granting favourable grades to underperforming students, fostering a more rigorous examination environment.
To further enhance fairness, a mixed system has been introduced, assigning students to different schools or colleges as exam centres. Practical exams, oral assessments, and internal evaluations for Class X are scheduled to take place from February 10 to 29, while those for Class XII will be held from February 2 to 20.
Special attention is being given to addressing concerns about private classes overshadowing formal educational institutions. The focus of the flying squads this year is on implementing rigorous examination procedures to ensure a level playing field for all students.
The MSBSHSE has released the timetable for the final exams on its official website. The Class XII board exam is scheduled from February 21 to March 19, with Class X exams taking place from March 1 to 26. External regulators, including teachers from aided schools, will oversee practical examinations in self-financed schools and colleges. Notably, the marks must be recorded in the presence of external invigilators on the same day as the practical exam, and the use of Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) sheets will be discontinued.
Audumbar Ukirde, Secretary of the Pune division, MSBSHSE, emphasized the commitment to maintaining the integrity of the practical examinations. He stated that flying squads will conduct surprise visits to ensure the transparent and equitable conduct of the exams. Addressing concerns about direct appearances in board exams and manipulated admissions, Ukirde assured that these practices are being closely monitored.
The final coordination meeting will determine specific assignments for centre-wise flying squads, reinforcing the board’s dedication to a fair and reliable examination process. Students, parents, and educators alike welcome these measures as a step towards ensuring the credibility of the education system in Maharashtra.
