Maharashtra Reduces Passing Marks in Math and Science to 20 for SSC Students | Pune News
PUNE: In a relief for SSC students struggling with maths and science, Maharashtra govt has decided to reduce the minimum passing marks required in the subjects to 20 out of 100, from 35 at present, in its new school curriculum framework.
There is a catch, though. Students will be marked as ‘passed’ on their mark sheets and a special note will indicate that they cannot pursue maths or science courses.
The move is aimed at helping students interested in pursuing humanities and arts who may otherwise drop out if they fail in Std 10.
‘Lowering of math, sci passing marks not from this year’
State govt has decided to cut the minimum passing marks in maths and science for SSC students to 20. Sharad Gosavi, chairman of the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education, said the change in passing marks will not be implemented from this year. “This will come into place as and when the n ew curriculum is implemented across the state,” Gosavi said.
Rahul Rekhawar, director of the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), said this change is part of the new curriculum framework already approved by the school education department.
“Failing in mathematics or science, and in effect in SSC, often leaves students with no opportunities to continue their education, even if their strengths lie elsewhere. This change is designed to ensure that students are not unfairly pushed out of the system and can still p ursue their academic and career aspirations,” he said.
Rekhawar said if the student chooses, he or she can still appear for the supplementary exam and regular exam the next year, pass the subjects, and get a new mark she et. “This is just an additional feature we are adding to the existing ones.”
The decision has sparked mixed reactions among educationists. While many support the move as inclusive, some critics argue it could compromise educational standards.
Educationist Heramb Kulkarni said mathematics and science are fundamental to developing analytical thinking. “These subjects serve a purpose beyond mere academic scoring. Lowering standards might adversely affect the overall quality of education in the state. Within the science subject, 20 marks are for practicals, which are easily achieved by the students. What are we testing them for?” he added.
Education experts such as Vasant Kalpande applauded the move and said this would not only reduce stress but also reduce the amount of money spent on tuitions.
“There are students who cannot understand mathematics. Many great writers like Munshi Premchand and Hari Narayan Apte dropped out of their respective courses because of mathematics. Hence, if a student wants to pursue arts or humanities, why force them to take up science and maths which they have no aptitude for?” he added.
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