Education Minister Ranoj Pegu initiates the elimination of ranking system from HSLC and HS Examinations.
Guwahati, Assam- 8 February, 24: In a significant move, Assam's Education Minister, Ranoj Pegu, declared the elimination of the ranking system from the High School Leaving Certificate (HSLC) Examination and Higher Secondary (HS) Examination starting the upcoming academic year. The decision comes amidst ongoing deliberations during the Budget Session of the Assam Legislative Assembly.
During the fourth day of the Budget Session, Minister Ranoj Pegu emphasized the redundancy of the ranking system in board examinations, stating that possessing a certificate of rank does not guarantee employment opportunities. This decision aligns with the government's efforts to prioritize holistic learning outcomes over competitive rankings.
However, the announcement sparked mixed reactions among legislators. Congress MLA Jakir Hussain expressed concerns over the potential impact on student morale, highlighting the emotional significance attached to the ranking system, particularly within the Assamese community. He cautioned against its removal, citing the risk of demotivating students.
In response, Hussain criticized the BJP government, labeling it as arbitrary in its decision-making processes. The debate surrounding the abolition of the ranking system underscores differing perspectives on educational evaluation methods and their implications for student motivation and academic culture.
The decision to abolish the ranking system in Assam's board examinations reflects a broader discourse on educational reforms aimed at fostering holistic learning experiences. While proponents advocate for a shift towards more inclusive evaluation criteria, critics raise concerns regarding the potential impact on student motivation and cultural sentiments. As discussions continue, policymakers strive to strike a balance between academic rigor and student well-being in the state's educational landscape.