Educators and parents across Maharashtra are strongly opposing the sudden revision of the annual examination and Progression Assessment Test (PAT) schedule by the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) and the Education Commissionerate for the 2024-25 academic year.
As per the directive, all state board-affiliated schools must conduct annual exams from April 8 to April 25, with results to be compiled within five days and declared by May 1. Teachers argue that this decision disrupts academic plans and places excessive pressure on students and faculty.
Overlapping exams spark concerns
A key issue is the overlap between PAT and annual exams, forcing students to take multiple tests in the same subject within a short span. Previously, schools had flexibility in scheduling exams between late March and early April. Teachers fear the shift will result in lower post-exam attendance, cutting valuable study and remedial learning time.
Parents, too, are frustrated as summer vacation plans and coaching classes are affected. “We had already booked travel from April 15 to 28. This last-minute change is unfair,” a parent stated.
Teachers demand withdrawal
The rushed five-day timeline for grading and result declaration has also drawn criticism. “This decision is impractical and should be revoked,” said Maharashtra Progressive Teachers Association president Tanaji Kamble.
Meanwhile, officials defend the move, citing the need to improve learning outcomes.
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