The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is implementing stricter measures to curb the prevalence of ‘dummy schools’—institutions where students are enrolled but do not attend regular classes. Starting from the 2025-2026 academic session, students with insufficient attendance may be prohibited from appearing in the Class 12 board examinations.
Understanding ‘Dummy Schools’
‘Dummy schools’ allow students to register without attending regular classes, enabling them to focus solely on preparations for competitive exams like engineering and medical entrance tests. This practice undermines the holistic educational experience that regular schooling provides.
CBSE’s Proposed Measures
To address this issue, CBSE plans to amend its examination bylaws to enforce stricter attendance requirements. Students failing to meet the mandated attendance criteria may be directed to alternative avenues such as the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) to complete their education. Additionally, schools found promoting or facilitating the ‘dummy school’ culture could face disciplinary actions under CBSE’s affiliation and examination regulations.
Implications for Students and Parents
CBSE emphasizes that both students and parents share the responsibility of ensuring regular school attendance. The board’s crackdown aims to reinforce the importance of comprehensive education, encompassing both academic and extracurricular development, which is integral to a student’s overall growth.
Conclusion
CBSE’s initiative to bar students enrolled in ‘dummy schools’ from appearing in Class 12 board exams underscores its commitment to upholding the integrity and quality of education. This move is expected to encourage regular attendance and active participation in school activities, fostering a more robust educational foundation for students.
Disclaimer: The information in this blog is sourced from various news outlets, including The Times of India, The Economic Times, and India Today.
