Parents, students in UAE unhappy as Kerala SSLC exams postponed

Abu Dhabi - Abdul Kader V.V., principal, The Model School, said that a postponement amid the current situation of the pandemic is a double-edged sword.

Parents and students in the UAE have expressed unhappiness as the Kerala SSLC and Grade 12 exams, scheduled from March 17 to 30, have been postponed to April 8.

The decision has been taken as educational institutes in the state need to serve as polling booths for the Kerala assembly elections to be held on April 6. Additionally, teaching and non-teaching are required to be on poll duty and will undergo specific training.

Abdul Kader V.V., principal, The Model School, said that a postponement amid the current situation of the pandemic is a double-edged sword.

“Most parents are unhappy as this has created difficulties for them. Some have their visas expired and others had planned to leave after the exams and booked air tickets accordingly.”

Kader pointed out that with exams to be held from April 8 to 30 now, families have to replan. However, it gives schools and students more time to prepare for the exams.

“We had already finished all model test papers. We plan to conduct one more round now. The rescheduling of exams gives more time for students to study,” the principal added.

Meanwhile, parents felt that with exams getting over by March 30 as per the earlier schedule, there was enough time to set things up for the elections.

“The deferment could have been avoided as exams would have been over a week ahead of the polls. This may also be the first time that SSLC exams have been shifted after the model exams were conducted,” NM Aboobacker, a parent, said.

“Kids are also frustrated staying at home and studying all the time. They are under tremendous stress and pressure,” Aboobacker added.

Many students termed it an unfortunate development as they will now need to remain focused till April end.

“We are done with model exams and have prepared for main exams. We were waiting for the exams to get over by this month end. I was counting days to return to the football ground. Now, I have to wait till April 30. It is frustrating,” said NA Raneem, a Grade 10 student.

ashwani@khaleejtimes.com