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Bangladesh's Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and equivalent examinations begin today (Thursday), with over 1.25 million students set to take part across the country under strict health guidelines due to rising COVID-19 and dengue risks.
A total of 1,251,111 candidates are expected to sit for the exams under nine general education boards, the Madrasah Education Board, and the Technical Education Board, bdnews24.com reports.
The written exams under general and madrasa boards will continue until Aug 10, while practical exams are scheduled from Aug 11 to 28. Under the Technical Board, theoretical exams will end on Jul 17, with practicals slated from Jul 18 to 24.
The number of examinees under the general education boards has dropped by nearly 82,000 compared to last year, totalling 1,055,398 students from 4,808 institutions.
The madrasa board has 86,102 candidates, while 109,611 students are taking vocational and diploma-in-commerce exams under the technical board.
In light of increasing dengue infections and lingering COVID-19 risks, the Inter-Education Board Coordination Committee has issued a set of health and safety instructions.
Masks have been made mandatory for entry to exam centres, and hand sanitiser must be available at all entrances.
Local administrations have been instructed to spray mosquito repellents in and around centres prior to exams.
Seating arrangements must ensure at least three feet of distance between candidates, and all centres are required to keep medical teams on standby.
Authorities have also discouraged gatherings of guardians near centres to maintain safety protocols.
To ensure fair conduct, the education ministry has ordered all coaching centres shut from Jun 20 to Aug 15.
The use of mobile phones and electronic devices within 200 yards of exam venues is strictly prohibited for teachers, students, and staff.
A recent government meeting, chaired by Education Advisor CR Abrar, also authorised legal action against those spreading rumours or leaking exam questions.
Law-enforcing agencies, including the Army if necessary, will be deployed to ensure a smooth and secure examination process.
Students are required to enter centres at least 30 minutes before exams begin. Late arrivals must be recorded, with reasons noted. If exams are delayed due to natural causes, lost time will be compensated.
Educational institutions serving as exam centres will remain closed on exam days but may resume classes on off days during the exam period.