SEE Examination Controversy: Educational Quality at Stake

Janakpurdham, October 10, 2023 - The recent Secondary Education Examination (SEE) provisions in the School Education Bill 2080 have sparked major concerns among educators and stakeholders. The fear? The proposed changes might dilute the educational standards at the school level and adversely affect university admissions.

Dissatisfaction Among Educators:

• SEE's Abolition: A significant point of contention is the government's move to abolish the SEE for Class 10, giving schools the authority to conduct these exams internally. Many educators believe that such a move will compromise educational standards.

• State-Level Exams: Government school teachers have raised their voices against the decision, suggesting that the SEE exams should be held at the state level to maintain the quality of education in public schools.

• Reduction in Marks and Subjects: As highlighted by Dhan Bahadur Kandwang, co-principal of Tripadhyam Vidyashram Mavi in Lalitpur, the government has not only eliminated the SEE but also reduced the total marks in Class 10 from 800 to 700 and minimized subjects.

Consequences Predicted

1. Decreased Student Motivation: Without the SEE, students may lack the motivation to study diligently, leading to poor learning outcomes.
2. Teachers Affected: With no SEE to prepare students for, teachers might lose their teaching fervor, further impacting the overall teaching-learning environment.
3. Diminished Quality: With students' decreased inclination to study, by the time they reach Class 12, their foundational knowledge may be compromised, making university admissions even more challenging.

A Demand for Provincial Level SEE

Prof. Gyan Bhakta Maharjan from Adarshsaul University emphasized the importance of having at least two board-level exams between Class 9 and Class 12. He believes that provincial-level SEE will elevate students' learning achievements.

Political Input

Min Bishwakarma, Head of the Nepali Congress Propaganda Department, mentioned that the party is looking into amending the bill to enhance school education. He revealed that discussions had been held with coalition parties regarding potential amendments, with teachers' concerns also being taken into consideration.

Chairman's Perspective

Dr. Mahashram Sharma, chairman of the board, voiced his apprehension, stating that eliminating the SEE might lead to an educational disaster at the school level. He firmly believes in the necessity of the SEE for Class 10 to uphold educational quality.

Looking Forward

The School Education Bill 2080, as it stands, suggests conducting school-level examinations at just two levels, primary and secondary. However, with the growing concerns of educators and stakeholders, it remains to be seen how the government will navigate this complex issue to ensure the best educational outcomes for Nepal's youth.