As Assam prepares for a high-stakes Assembly election season, the state government has moved decisively to protect another critical process that affects lakhs of families board examinations. The announcement that HSLC & HSSLC exams in government schools will be conducted exclusively through state-run institutions this year has drawn wide attention across the education sector.
The decision, confirmed by Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma, comes at a time when election schedules and academic calendars are overlapping, placing unprecedented pressure on district administrations, security forces, and education departments.Officials insist the move is rooted not in politics, but in governance efficiency.
Why HSLC & HSSLC Exams in Government Schools Are Being Centralised This Year
This year’s HSLC and HSSLC examinations are taking place during the peak of election activity a period marked by tight security, strict monitoring, and legal sensitivity.According to the state government, conducting exams in government schools allows:
- Faster administrative response
- Direct legal oversight
- Better coordination with election authorities
- Clear accountability in case of irregularities
Unlike private institutions, government schools operate fully under state jurisdiction. This enables authorities to take immediate action if any issue arises, something officials say is essential during election periods.As a result, HSLC & HSSLC exams in government schools were identified as the safest and most manageable option.
Why Private Schools Are Not Being Used as Exam Centres
One of the most debated aspects of the decision is the exclusion of private schools as examination centres.The government clarified that private school teachers and administrators do not fall under direct disciplinary control of the state. In situations involving:
- Security breaches
- Examination malpractice
- Election code violations
Legal action against private staff can be time-consuming and complicated.During elections, when neutrality and compliance are non-negotiable, this limitation becomes a significant risk. By limiting responsibilities to government institutions and personnel, the administration believes it can maintain both academic integrity and electoral discipline.
This is a key reason HSLC & HSSLC exams in government schools are being prioritised this year.
Teacher Shortage Concerns Addressed With Fresh Appointments
Soon after the announcement, questions emerged about whether Assam had enough government teachers to manage large-scale board examinations without private school support.The state government responded with updated figures
- More than 10,000 teachers have already been appointed
- Around 5,000 additional teachers are expected to join by February
- Several districts may even report surplus staff availability
Officials said this strengthened manpower base eliminates the need to involve private institutions. The government maintains that staffing will not be an issue during HSLC & HSSLC exams in government schools.
High-Level Planning Already Underway
Chief Minister Sarma confirmed that extensive preparations began well in advance. Alongside Education Minister Ranoj Pegu, multiple coordination meetings have been held with senior officials.These discussions focused on
- Examination centre mapping
- Invigilator deployment
- Security arrangements
- Transport and logistics
- Synchronisation with election schedules
Authorities insist that both elections and exams will be conducted without disrupting either process.
Why This Decision Matters for Students and Parents
This year’s board exams are more than an academic milestone. They are unfolding amid heightened security, administrative pressure, and statewide political activity.By centralising HSLC & HSSLC exams in government schools, the state aims to:
- Prevent last-minute centre changes
- Reduce confusion among students
- Ensure consistent exam environments
- Strengthen security across sensitive districts
For students, officials emphasise that the syllabus, marking scheme, and exam pattern remain unchanged.Education officials have shared the following guidance
- Exam dates remain unchanged
- Admit cards will list only government school centres
- No extra documents are required
- District administrations will manage local arrangements
- Students should follow official board notifications only
Parents have also been advised to avoid unverified information circulating on social media platforms.
FAQ
1.Will private school students be disadvantaged?
No. All students will appear from government school centres.
2.Are exams being postponed because of elections?
No postponement has been announced.
3.Will security be tighter during exams?
Yes. Election protocols add an extra security layer.
4.Can private teachers act as invigilators?
No. Only government teachers will be deployed.
5Is this a permanent policy change?
No official confirmation. The decision applies to the current election year.
Conclusion
The move to conduct HSLC & HSSLC exams in government schools reflects Assam’s effort to balance two critical responsibilities democrati celections and academic fairness.and more trending news visit our site
With increased manpower, tighter administrative control, and early planning, the state government says it is fully prepared. For students, the focus remains unchanged: stay informed, prepare well, and approach the exams with confidence.