Pune: State Board Takes Action Against Schools Denying Admit Cards to Students for Board Exams
Pune, 21st February 2024: In a recent development, the Chairman of the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education, Sharad Gosavi, addressed concerns about students facing difficulties obtaining admit cards for the upcoming class 10-12 board examinations.
Despite clear instructions from the state board that schools and junior colleges should not withhold admit cards due to non-payment of fees or any other reasons, two complaints have been lodged against institutions failing to comply.
Gosavi stated, “Action will be taken against the concerned schools and junior colleges,” emphasizing the seriousness of denying students their board exam admit cards. The authority to take action against such schools lies with the Secondary Education Officer, Divisional Deputy Director of Education, and Director of Secondary Education. Complaints of this nature, which mainly emanate from metro cities like Pune and Mumbai, often involve English medium schools.
“The state board is committed to ensuring that no student is deprived of the examination opportunity.” Gosavi reassured that every year, one or two complaints of non-issuance of admit cards due to non-payment of school fees are received, and appropriate measures are taken against the erring schools.
In related developments, Gosavi hinted at potential changes in the examination format and syllabus, aligning with the National Education Policy 2020. Discussions have taken place with the Principal Secretary of the Education Department and the Director of the Maharashtra State Council of Educational Research and Training. The Chairman indicated that changes might be implemented in a phased manner over the next two years.
Furthermore, under the National Curriculum Plan, there are considerations to conduct Board Examinations for Class X-XII twice a year. While this has been decided at the national level, the state is yet to implement this change. Gosavi clarified that the state government has not made any decisions on this matter as of now.
