Nepal's current board exam policies, at all levels, are rigid and lack provisions for emergency accommodations. These policies fail to consider students who face sudden health issues or other unforeseen circumstances during exam periods. As a result, students are forced to choose between their health and their academic future—either sit through exams under difficult circumstances or lose an entire academic year.
Cases:
- Alok Jaiswal had to delay urgent appendix surgery to sit for his Grade 10 exams, fearing that missing them would cost him an academic year. Despite the serious risk to his health, the pressure to proceed with the exams was immense. Enduring the tests under heavy painkillers, both his health and academic performance suffered.
- Sangam and Saugat Chhetri tragically lost their father just days before their board exams. In the midst of their grief, they were forced to take their exams due to the lack of any flexible options. The emotional toll they faced while trying to perform academically left them no room to process their trauma.
- Myself, I faced this reality when I was forced to take my Grade 12 board exams while battling jaundice. Like many others, I was caught between my health and the fear of losing an academic year.
Special Consideration Policy:
The Special Consideration Policy aims to provide flexibility and support to students facing unexpected emergencies or health crises during exam periods. This policy would allow accommodations such as rescheduling exams, alternative assessments, or extended time based on individual circumstances. Its goal is to prevent students from being unfairly penalized for situations beyond their control, ensuring they can perform to their full potential without compromising their health or well-being. Implementing this policy would create a more compassionate and equitable education system, supporting the diverse needs of all students.
Who is Impacted?
Students across Nepal—at the secondary and university levels—are deeply affected by the rigid exam policies. Many endure significant physical and emotional distress during emergencies, as the lack of accommodations forces them to choose between their health and academic future. This leads to compromised performance and enormous stress, affecting countless students each year.
What is at Stake?
If these policies remain unchanged, countless students will continue to suffer, potentially jeopardizing their academic and professional futures. Their health will remain at risk, and their exam performance will not reflect their true capabilities. By contrast, implementing Special Consideration will allow students facing emergencies to perform to their fullest potential without compromising their health, fostering a more supportive and fair educational environment. This reform will help build a healthier, more resilient generation of students.
Why Now?
Now is the time to act because awareness of the importance of mental health and well-being is at an all-time high. Our education system must evolve to reflect these values. Immediate action can prevent further student suffering, ensuring that no one has to choose between their health and future again. By acting now, we can set a precedent for compassionate and equitable educational policies that prioritize students' well-being and academic success.
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