Grade 12 exams to proceed as scheduled despite protests

KATHMANDU: Amid ongoing protests by teachers and the resignation of the Education Minister, the National Examination Board (NEB) has announced that the Grade 12 exams will take place as scheduled from April 24 (Baisakh 11).

In a meeting held on Tuesday morning, the board clarified that there is no plan to postpone the exams. Instructions have been issued to all district exam coordination committees and designated exam centers to proceed with preparations.

NEB Chairperson Mahashram Sharma dismissed speculations of postponement, stating that all necessary arrangements are in the final stages.

He emphasized that the decision to proceed on schedule was made keeping in mind the students’ future, despite the ongoing protests.

Protesting teachers had earlier declared they would not participate in the Grade 12 exams, demanding that the government address their concerns by passing the School Education Act that incorporates previous agreements.

However, Sharma said the exams would be conducted even if civil servants have to be deployed in place of protesting teachers. “Not all teachers are part of the protest,” he said. “Where possible, we will appoint teachers as exam heads and invigilators. In their absence, local administration (CDOs) will ensure suitable alternatives.”