CBSE asks schools to commence academic sessions from April

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has suggested that the next academic session be commenced on April 1, in a letter addressed to the heads of schools affiliated to it.

“It would be appropriate to start the academic session 2021-2022 from 1stApril, 2021 to the extent feasible subject to instructions of the State Government,” read the letter signed by Controller of Examinations Sanyam Bharadwaj.

The 2020-2021 academic session had begun in the early days of the lockdown and continues to be conducted remotely for most students, except in states which have recently allowed re-opening of schools. In most cases, this reopening has been either only for board year students, or classes IX to XII. The central board has also advised that schools take steps to conduct examinations for class IX and XI students, and to identify learning gaps in students of those grades. Offline board examinations for class X and XII students are set to begin on May 4.

Stating that schools should be prepared to welcome class X and XII students for face-to-face classes leading up to their board exams, the letter stated: “For classes IX and XI also, schools should take steps to identify and remedy the learning gaps and thereafter, conduct examinations by strictly following COVID safety protocols as per Examination Bye-Laws. This will also help in identifying learning gaps which could be addressed by the schools in new academic session by having a bridge course specially designed to address learning gaps.”