With Gujarat’s Class X and XII board exams kicking off on February 27, student anxiety has surged, evident from the 1,927 distress calls received by the GSHSEB helpline in just a month. The most common concerns? Self-doubt, sleepless nights, and fear of underperformance. Some students sought exam strategies, while others simply needed reassurance.

Exam pressure peaks

Board exams will run from February 27 to March 17 for Class XII (general stream) and until March 10 for Class X and XII (science stream). Many Class XII science students, despite months of preparation, reported feeling like they’d forgotten everything, leading to panic. GSHSEB officials remind them of the best-of-two system, allowing re-exams if needed.

Minister’s message: Exams are not the end

Education Minister Praful Pansheriya urged students to treat exams like a festival, emphasizing that low scores do not define success. He encouraged parents to foster a stress-free environment at home.

Helpline reveals common worries

Students voiced concerns such as:

  • “I keep getting negative thoughts.”
  • “I fear blanking out during the exam.”
  • “I can’t sleep at night and feel drowsy in the morning.”

Counselors advised students to exercise, meditate, read positive stories, and follow a structured study plan. They emphasized that exams are not life’s final goal.

Massive turnout, strict monitoring

A total of 14.3 lakh students have registered for the exams across 87 zones and 989 centres (Class X) and 59 zones and 672 centres (Class XII). The government has deployed Class-I and Class-II officers for strict surveillance, with police and control rooms ensuring seamless execution.