In a significant move towards inclusive education, the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) has mandated that students should not be denied the opportunity to take the Class 12 examinations due to unpaid fees. This directive aims to ensure that financial constraints do not become a barrier for students aspiring to appear for their board exams.
According to the recent state board guidelines, failure to pay fees will not be accepted as a valid reason to withhold hall tickets or prevent students from participating in the Class 12 examinations. Each student is expected to receive a hall pass from the concerned group education officer, emphasizing equal access to educational opportunities.
MSBSHSE Chairperson Sharad Gosavi issued a stern warning, asserting that any school found guilty of obstructing students from taking the exams will face consequences. The move aligns with the board’s commitment to promoting education accessibility and providing a level playing field for all students.
The Class 12 examinations, set to commence from February 21 across nine divisional boards, will see the participation of 1,513,909 students. This marks an increase from the 2023 figures when 1,457,293 students appeared for the exams. Despite the surge in participation, the board emphasizes that financial constraints should not compromise a student’s right to education.
Taking a strong stance against any impediments, Gosavi stated that strict actions will be taken against schools or educational institutions found to be hindering students from obtaining hall passes and taking the exams. This proactive approach underscores the importance of fair and unbiased examination procedures.
In a related incident a few days ago, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) staged protests against the alleged denial of examination hall tickets to 10th-grade students. The demonstration at JSPM School in Wagholi took a disruptive turn with acts of vandalism, highlighting the urgency of addressing such issues and ensuring a smooth examination process for all students.
