CBSE Class 10, 12 Board Exams No More Toppers and Merit Lists

by Praveen On 5/16/2023 12:17:43 PM

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has declared that it will not publish any toppers or merit lists for the forthcoming class 10 and 12 board exams. This move has sparked significant debate since it contradicts the usual practice of recognising and rewarding the best pupils.

The CBSE defended its decision, stating the need to move the emphasis away from competitiveness and towards a more comprehensive approach to education. In this post, we'll look at why this decision was made and how it could affect students and the school system as a whole.

Why no Toppers?

According to the CBSE, the decision not to announce any toppers or merit lists is in keeping with the new National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which intends to foster a more inclusive and fair education system. The NEP emphasises skill development and experiential learning above rote memorising and high-stakes assessments.

The CBSE feels that publicising toppers and merit lists fosters unhealthy competitiveness among pupils and can lead to stress, anxiety, and even despair. It can also demotivate pupils who do not perform well, leading to a narrow concentration on earning high scores rather than seeking a fully-rounded education.

The Impact on Students

While the desire to do away with toppers and merit lists is well-intentioned, it is not without risks. For one thing, it may result in a lack of recognition and appreciation for high-achieving students, who may feel that their hard work and devotion went unnoticed.

Furthermore, the absence of a toppers list or merit list may make it more difficult for students to get admission to prestigious colleges and universities, as these lists are frequently used to assess applications. It may also lead to a drop in motivation for certain students who believe their efforts are not being recognised or appreciated.

The Impact on the Educational System

The decision not to publish any toppers or merit lists might have far-reaching consequences for the educational system as a whole. It may inspire schools and instructors to place a greater emphasis on offering a well-rounded education that emphasises skill development and experience learning over rote memorising and test preparation.

It may also cause a shift in how schools and universities evaluate candidates, since they may need to develop new methods of assessing individuals' talents and potential. This might result in a more varied and inclusive student body, as well as a more comprehensive approach to education.

Conclusion

The decision to eliminate toppers and merit rankings for CBSE class 10 and 12 board examinations is a bold step that reflects the education system's shifting objectives and beliefs. While it may be contentious, it is consistent with the new National Education Policy and has the potential to improve how students learn and are assessed. It remains to be seen how this decision will be welcomed by kids, parents, and educators, as well as how it will affect college and university applications. The CBSE, on the other hand, is adopting a proactive approach to fostering a more egalitarian and inclusive education system that appreciates all children, regardless of academic performance.