Maharashtra Govt Reduces Minimum Passing Marks For SSC From 35 To 20
The Maharashtra government has announced the reduction of minimum passing marks for the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) science and mathematics exam from 35 to 20 marks out of 100. Reportedly, the step is to reduce the dropout rates from schools.
Under the updated State Curriculum Framework for School Education (SCF-SE), now class 10 students who fail to score the minimum passing marks in mathematics and science can enroll in class 11 if they score at least 20 marks. The decision is reportedly taken to ensure that academic challenges in specific subjects do not derail a student’s education.
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According to the new policy, students who score more than 20 marks but below 35 will become eligible to enroll in class 11 but will be restricted from taking mathematics and science. However, they would be given a chance to retake the exam to improve their marks.
Reportedly, Sharad Gosavi, chairman of the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education said that the change in passing marks will not be implemented from this year. It will be implemented when the new curriculum is implemented across the state.
The Maharashtra govt move has sparked a debate about fairness, education standards, and its impact on student’s future. Critics argue that it will undermine the core subject competency among the students. Maths and science are considered critical subjects for cognitive development, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills. The reduction in passing marks is seen as creating a weaker understanding of fundamental concepts and future academic pursuits.
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It is also said to raise concerns about the integrity of the academic system. The policy could weaken the accountability of both students and educators as the motivation to improve performance will reduced. Also, critics said that this would normalize poor academic performance among students.
On the other hand, the reduction in marks is taken as a way to reduce the dropout rates in schools. It will also support the diverse learning styles and encourage career diversity.
