Karnataka department of school education implements pre-board examinations;hopes to improve SSLC results

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: In a bid to improve SSLC results, the Department of School Education is making an all-out effort this time to ensure the successful implementation of pre-board exams. Schools have been instructed to conduct these pre-boards with utmost diligence and analyse the results. This follows the disappointing 74 per cent pass rate last year, despite the normalisation process. Officials stated that they are determined to see better outcomes this year as per media reports.

The drop in results last year was attributed to efforts to curb malpractices and enforce strict supervision during exams. The actual pass percentage was 53 per cent, which was later increased through normalisation. To attract more grace marks, the Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board reduced the qualifying marks as a one-time measure. However, in response to criticism, the government announced that no grace marks would be granted this year, leaving schools concerned about the potential for even lower results.

According to a department notification, pre-boards will be held in January 2025 to assess student progress ahead of the SSLC exams. A nodal officer will be appointed in each school to ensure the exams are taken seriously, and results must be submitted to local education department officials for further analysis. Schools will also submit reports to the Deputy Director of Public Instruction. Based on these reports, an action plan will be developed for each school.