CBSE Board Exams 2021: Should They Be Cancelled Due to New Education Policy and Rising Cases of COVID-19?
The cancellation of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) board exams for Class X and XII in 2021 due to increasing cases of COVID-19 has raised a myriad of questions and concerns. It is neither a simple 'yes' nor a 'no'; let us delve into the complexities of this decision and the implications.
Why CBSE Board Exams Must Be Cancelled
First and foremost, the safety and health of the students must remain the top priority. The government's warning about a possible third wave of the coronavirus further emphasizes the need for strict precautions. Several reasons support the cancellation:
1. Health Precautions and Safety
The new guidelines from the central government announced on May 20, 2021, state that COVID-19 can spread through aerosols to people who are even 10 feet away from each other. How can we ensure that students are seated at such distances during an examination? Many students have tragically lost their parents to the virus, and their mental health and well-being are already under immense strain. It would be unduly risky to put them in a situation where such distances may not be maintained.2. The Current State of the Pandemic
The second wave of the pandemic is still at a critical stage with high cases. Conducting board examinations now could exacerbate the situation, akin to pouring fuel on a fire that is still burning. Other preventive measures and social distancing protocols might not be enough in this scenario.
3. Logistical Challenges
Even if exams are conducted, it would be a monumental task for the CBSE to ensure that all social distancing norms are strictly followed. It is difficult, if not impossible, to guarantee the safety of every student who is required to sit in close proximity to others.
Why CBSE Board Exams Should Not Be Cancelled
Opponents argue that cancelling the exams will have significant adverse effects on students' academic performance. They raise several points:
1. Academic Impact and Performance
Many students might lose motivation and drop out if their progress is adversely affected by unforeseen circumstances beyond their control. Some top-performing students who have dedicated significant time and effort to preparing for these exams might feel that their hard work has gone to waste.2. Fairness and Equity
With the prevalence of cheating during online exams, the performance of students who cheated might unfairly benefit, making the cancellation of exams even more unjustifiable.
3. Impact on Student Future
The 12th class marks are crucial for higher studies and life in general. Students with lower scores in internal assessments might feel that their futures are jeopardized, making it imperative to find an alternative assessment method that is fair and comprehensive.
Conclusion and Government Response
Given the multifaceted nature of the issue, it is challenging to arrive at a definitive decision. The complex logistical and safety concerns must be weighed against the potential academic and emotional implications for students. The government and the CBSE have scheduled a high-level meeting on May 23, 2021, to discuss the conduct of board exams and competitive exams.
The decision to cancel the exams was ultimately taken, with the Prime Minister, Mr. Modi, announcing the decision on June 1, 2021. This action underscores the commitment to prioritizing student well-being and safety in the face of the ongoing pandemic.
While the decision is not easy to accept, it is a step taken with the best intentions. As the pandemic continues to unfold, it is crucial for both educators and students to remain vigilant and adaptive to the ever-changing circumstances.
Follow updates and stay informed for any further developments in the 2021 CBSE examinations.