WebDesk Mohali PSEB
31 January 2024
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
In a significant move, the Punjab School Education Board has decided to eliminate the option of revaluation for exam papers, effective from the 2023-24 academic year. This decision has stirred a wave of discontent among students who, until now, could request a re-evaluation of their papers to potentially improve their grades.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, students had vociferously demanded the inclusion of revaluation as part of the examination process. While rechecking was an existing provision, revaluation – a process that allows for a complete reassessment of exam papers – was not initially offered by the Education Board.
The decision to withdraw the revaluation option comes at a time when students facing unsatisfactory marks will no longer have the opportunity to request a re-examination of their papers by paying a prescribed fee. Formerly, revaluation often led to an increase in marks, enabling students to successfully pass the subject. However, the Education Board justifies this move by stating that maintaining the revaluation facility is not feasible, even though rechecking remains available.
Critics argue that the Education Board should reconsider its decision, pointing out that universities continue to provide revaluation facilities to students. The discrepancy between university practices and the decision of the Education Board has raised questions about fairness and equality in the education system.
Educationists have weighed in on the matter, urging the Education Board to reconsider its stance. They question why a facility available in universities cannot be extended to school education, emphasizing the importance of fairness and transparency in the examination process.
The Punjab School Education Board’s recent decision to eliminate the revaluation option has sparked a heated debate among students, educationists, and the public. While the Board contends that rechecking remains an available option, critics argue that the removal of revaluation might hinder the chances of students seeking a fair reassessment of their exam papers. The call for a reevaluation of this decision echoes through academic circles, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and equitable examination system.