Bengaluru — Despite its reputation as a hub of education and innovation, not a single student from Bengaluru made it to the top 10 ranks in the science stream of the II PU board exam results released Tuesday. The city, known for its STEM exposure, tech coaching centres, and elite institutions, also saw just one student in the arts top 10, and two in commerce.

Education experts point to multiple factors behind the city’s underwhelming performance. “Students here prioritize JEE and NEET preparation, not board exams,” said AH Ningegowda of the PU Lecturers’ Association. He added that paper and exam randomisation might have impacted familiar preparation patterns.

A government PU college lecturer remarked that urban distractions and CET coaching during school hours affected regular learning. In contrast, districts like Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Shivamogga, where students have fewer diversions, topped in various streams. Vijayanagara shone in arts.

Among the few Bengaluru bright spots were:

  • KR Shri Jeya Darshini, 3rd in arts (595/600)

  • Pratheeksha P, 5th in commerce (597/600)

  • Amruthavarshini S, 8th in commerce (596/600)

    • On a worrying note, 90 private colleges across Karnataka saw zero pass percentage, compared to 33 government, aided, and KREIS colleges. School Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa expressed concern and promised support and corrective steps through SATS (Student Achievement Tracking System).

    Meanwhile, KREIS residential schools stood out, with 86.2% pass rate. The minister credited their structured environment, entrance cut-offs, and focused academics for their success.

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