India: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced significant changes in the examination process for 2024 in accordance with the provisions outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Notable modifications include the elimination of overall divisions, distinctions, or aggregate scores for students undertaking the 10th and 12th CBSE exams.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had previously revealed plans for conducting board exams twice a year, allowing students to choose and retain their best scores from both attempts. Building on this, CBSE has officially confirmed through a notification that pre-exam psychology counseling sessions for parents and students will commence from January 1, 2024. This initiative, established in 1998, aims to equip parents and students with coping mechanisms for exam-related stress.
CBSE had earlier released the practical and theory exam timetables on January 1st and February 16th, respectively, aligning with these dates for the psychological counseling sessions. As part of this outreach program, CBSE has introduced the Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS) facility on the toll-free number 1800 11 8004. This platform provides students, parents, and stakeholders with access to pre-recorded valuable information on navigating board exams, including tips for better preparation, time and stress management, frequently asked questions (FAQs), and live tele-counseling services. A total of 65 principals, trained counselors, special educators from CBSE schools, and psychologists are contributing to this year’s counseling services.
