Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan unveiled a significant education reform, announcing that students will have the flexibility to appear for 10th and 12th class board examinations twice a year, starting from the academic session 2025-26. This strategic move aligns seamlessly with the National Education Policy’s overarching goal of alleviating academic stress among students. Pradhan, during the launch of the PM SHRI scheme in Chhattisgarh, emphasized the NEP’s holistic approach, introducing 10 bag-less days annually to encourage student involvement in diverse activities such as art, culture, and sports.

The New Curriculum Framework (NCF), introduced by the Ministry of Education in August, recommends conducting board exams at least twice a year. This approach not only provides students with ample time and opportunities to excel but also empowers them to retain their best scores. Pradhan, addressing students at the event, encouraged them to embrace this transformative change, fostering a more stress-free and enriching learning experience.

The minister took the opportunity to underscore the BJP government’s commitment to prioritizing education, drawing a sharp contrast with the previous Congress government in the state. As part of the PM SHRI scheme, the first phase focuses on upgrading 211 schools in Chhattisgarh, implementing an innovative ‘hub and spoke’ model. This model designates a mentor institution as the ‘hub,’ responsible for guiding secondary branches or ‘spokes’ towards self-improvement through centralized services.

Pradhan’s vision extended beyond educational reforms, as he expressed India’s aspiration to host the 2036 Olympics. He urged early preparations, setting a goal that 10% of the country’s medals should come from athletes in Chhattisgarh. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and other officials joined the event, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing transformation of India’s education landscape.

Source: PTI