The Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) declared the SSLC results on Friday, with Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts emerging as frontrunners. Dakshina Kannada registered a success rate of 91.12%, closely followed by Udupi at 89.96%, showcasing academic dominance along the coast.

Among the standout achievers was Swasthi Kamath from Jnanasudha English Medium School, Ganitha Nagar in Karkala, Udupi. She accomplished the rare feat of securing a flawless 625 out of 625 marks. In total, 22 students across Karnataka scored full marks — a steep rise from just two last year, and notably includes two students from government-run schools.

This year, Karnataka recorded an overall pass percentage of 62.34%, marking an 8% improvement from the previous academic cycle. Female candidates continued to outperform their male counterparts, achieving a pass rate of 74% compared to 58.07% among boys. Of the 5.24 lakh students who cleared the exam, nearly 2.96 lakh were girls.

Karwar secured the third position with 83.19%, while Kalaburagi remained at the bottom with a 42.43% pass rate. Within Bengaluru, Rural (74.02%) was ninth, South (72.3%) tenth, and North (72.27%) eleventh.

Despite gains, 144 schools — including six government institutions — recorded zero pass results. Government schools managed a 62.07% pass rate, aided schools 58.97%, while private unaided institutions led with 75.59%.

Rural students also outdid their urban peers. Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa credited Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s focused directives and live exam monitoring for this turnaround.