Shillong, Apr 10: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma today defended the move to simplify the SSLC exams and the introduction of guidebooks in the state.
Speaking to reporters here after felicitating the SSLC (Class 10) toppers from Khasi-Jaintia Hills, Sangma admitted that the issue has its pros and cons.
The introduction of the guidebooks has seen the pass rate surge to nearly 90 percent over the last two years but, far from drawing universal praise, this has led to criticism of dumbing down the education system, with critics saying that the guidebooks are not helping students to really learn.
However, the CM took a different view arguing that the Class 10 leaving exam is a basic test and not a specialised test in the way that medical, engineering or civil service aspirants have to sit.
Class 10 is when a child’s dreams start to take shape but when a student fails his or her dreams end even before they truly begin and that situation can lead to depression and a fall in confidence, he said. The state government therefore decided that children should be given support and encouraged to pass the exams to enable them to move forward in their lives.
Congratulating the toppers on their achievement, Sangma said that a few years back the pass percentage of SSLC examinations was very low and this disturbed him greatly.
“It was very sad to see the low pass percentage but things have started improving and I am positive that in the long run we will be able to bring about significant changes in the education scenario,” he said.
“The purpose of this program today is very simple, it is just to tell you that we are proud of you and your hard work and perseverance is appreciated and recognised,” the CM added while urging the toppers to carry on with their discipline, persistence, dedication and diligence.
