Pune: The State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) has announced a uniform exam schedule for Classes 1 to 9 in all schools affiliated with the State Education Board. The annual exams, Summative Assessment Test 2, and Periodic Assessment Test (PAT) will be conducted simultaneously from April 8 to April 25.
The decision aims to bring uniformity across all schools and ensure effective use of time for student learning. The schedule will be applicable to all mediums of instruction and all types of schools, including government, local self-government, and private-aided institutions.
Exam Pattern and Implementation
Since annual exams usually take place in late March or April, student attendance often declines once exams are completed in early April. To address this issue, SCERT has introduced a common timetable.
Examinations will include:
Baseline Test
Summative Assessment Test 1
Summative Assessment Test 2
For Summative Assessment Test 2, SCERT has provided schools with a fixed timetable. Schools under government, local self-government, and private-aided management will receive official question papers for First Language, Mathematics, and Third Language (English) for Classes 3 to 9 from the SCERT office.
However, other schools must create their own question papers for all subjects. Additionally:
For Classes 1 and 2, schools must prepare their own question papers for all subjects.
For Classes 3 to 9, except for the First Language, Mathematics, and Third Language (English), schools must develop question papers at the school level.
For Class 9, schools can decide their own schedule for subjects other than PAT.
SCERT Director Rahul Rekhawar has instructed schools to follow this framework while conducting the assessments.
Teachers Raise Concerns Over Short Evaluation Period
The tight schedule has raised concerns among educators, with many questioning the feasibility of completing evaluations within the given timeframe.
Former Vice President of the State Headmasters' Association, Mahendra Ganpule, highlighted the issue, stating: "The last exam under Summative Assessment Test 2 and PAT is scheduled for April 25. Teachers in high-enrollment schools will have to evaluate at least 400 to 500 answer sheets each.
Additionally, they must prepare and verify results. How can this task be completed in just five days? Moreover, PAT answer sheets require separate assessment and grade recording. This schedule needs serious reconsideration. Apart from PAT, schools should continue conducting other subject exams at the school level as per the earlier system."
