Govt U-turns from holding postponed HSC exams on same day
In a swift policy reversal, the government has withdrawn its controversial decision to conduct two postponed HSC and equivalent-level exams on a single day following widespread backlash from students, parents, and educators.
The exams originally scheduled for July 22 and 24 were postponed in the aftermath of the tragic plane crash at Milestone School and College in Uttara, Dhaka, which claimed the lives of 31 students and left many injured.
In response, Education Adviser CR Abrar initially announced that both exams would be held on the same rescheduled day, a move that sparked immediate criticism.
Students and guardians expressed frustration, calling the decision impractical and insensitive, especially given the emotional and psychological toll of the recent tragedy.
Teachers’ associations also voiced surprise, warning that compressing two exam days into one would increase pressure on already distressed examinees.
Following extensive media coverage, including reports by Jago News, and growing public outcry, the government reconsidered its stance.
A revised exam schedule has now been released. Under the updated plan:
- The postponed exam of July 22 will be held on August 17
- The postponed exam of July 24 will take place on August 19
- The Cumilla Board exams, postponed on July 10 due to flooding, will be held on August 12
- Exams delayed on July 17 due to unrest in Gopalganj will be conducted only in Gopalganj district on August 14
Additionally, practical exams have been rescheduled in line with the revised written exam dates. According to the new timeline, practical exams will now run from August 21 to September 3, providing students with a more manageable and realistic timeframe.
The reversal has been welcomed by students, parents, and education stakeholders, who had raised concerns about the physical and mental strain of sitting for two major exams in one day.
The government’s quick response highlights the importance of public feedback in shaping education policy – especially during times of national grief and crisis.
As the nation continues to heal, authorities are emphasising a balanced approach: upholding academic integrity while showing compassion to those affected by recent tragedies.
