Maharashtra Lowers Passing Bar for Math and Science
The Maharashtra State Council for Educational Research and Training (SCERT) has proposed reducing the passing marks for Class 10 mathematics and science from 35 to 20 out of 100 as part of the State Curriculum Framework-School Education (SCF-SE). However, this new standard will only apply when the updated curriculum is rolled out across the state, not in the current academic year.
Students scoring between 20 and 34 will pass the class but will be barred from continuing these subjects in higher grades. Their mark sheets will carry a notation indicating their ineligibility to pursue mathematics or science further, aiming to reduce dropout rates by allowing students to focus on subjects where they have a stronger interest or aptitude, like humanities and arts. This approach is intended to offer flexibility in academic progression, minimizing pressure and failure-related dropout risks.
To improve scores, students can also take supplementary exams or reappear for the exam in the following academic year. The proposal has garnered mixed reactions from educators and stakeholders, reflecting differing views on its potential impact on academic standards and student motivation.