The Controversy Surrounding the Cancellation of XII Board Exams in 2021
Yes, the Class XII board examinations of 2021 were indeed cancelled due to the increasing cases of COVID-19, primarily considering the safety and security of students and their families. This decision came at a time when the nation was grappling with the second wave of the pandemic, and the need to prioritize public health over educational obligations was made abundantly clear.
Reasons for Cancellation
While the cancellation of the XII board exams might seem straightforward, the decision was far from binary. Let’s explore the reasons why the exams were ultimately cancelled and why many experts and students alike are still grappling with the implications.
1. Health and Safety Concerns
The primary rationale behind the cancellation was the need to protect the health and safety of students, who would inevitably be crammed into large examination halls to take their tests. As our government foreshadowed the possibility of a third wave, the need to mitigate the risk of contagion became imperative.
Further, the revised guidelines issued by the central government on May 20, 2021, highlighted the potential for aerosol transmission even at distances of over 10 feet. Given the close proximity required during examinations, it was difficult to achieve the necessary level of social distancing, thus making the conduct of these exams highly risky.
2. Loss of Parental Figures
The ongoing pandemic has resulted in the tragic loss of many parents. While no student or family should lose a loved one, the impact on the lives of those directly affected by such tragedies cannot be overstated. Exam periods fall in a particularly stressful time, and the strain on these students is unimaginable.
3. Academic Performance and Learning Gaps
Many students are arguing that the complete cancellation of the XII board exams will have a detrimental effect on their academic performance and future prospects. Education experts and students alike are concerned about the potential learning gaps that could arise from cancellation.
According to many news interviews, canceling exams may result in students dropping out if their academic performance is severely impacted. Additionally, students who worked diligently for these exams might feel that their efforts have been wasted, given their reliance on school tests.
4. Cheating and Unfairness
There is a mixed reaction among students regarding the cancellation. Some argue that students who cheated during online exams and consequently performed well in school tests might be at an unfair disadvantage if these exams are canceled. This opinion is particularly prominent on platforms like Twitter, where students are debating the merits of cancellation.
5. Importance of the 12th Marksheet
The 12th marksheet holds immense importance for higher studies and beyond. As per the National Council of CBSE Schools, this document is a crucial element for college admissions and future career prospects. The cancellation of these exams can have long-term implications on students' educational journeys.
Expert Opinions and Government Decisions
While the decision to cancel the exams was complex, many believe that caution was warranted. The CBSE and Education Ministry scheduled a high-level meet on May 23, 2021, to discuss the conduct of exams and competitive exams. Unfortunately, the outcomes of this meeting were inconclusive, leading to ongoing debate and anxiety among students.
However, on June 1, 2021, the matter reached a conclusion when the Prime Minister, Mr. Modi, announced the cancellation of the XII board exams for the year 2021. This decision brought closure to the ongoing debate but also raised more questions about the future of educational assessments in the wake of the pandemic.
Note: The ongoing nature of the pandemic means that the situation remains fluid, and changes in educational policies may occur as new information emerges. Students and educators must stay updated with the latest developments from official sources.
Final Thoughts
The decision to cancel the XII board exams in 2021 was a reflection of the challenging times we are facing. While the academic world prepares for the safest possible way forward, the safety and well-being of students remain at the forefront of all considerations. It is hoped that with the evolving situation, measures can be taken to ensure that the impact on students is mitigated as much as possible.
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