Dhaka, April 10 (V7N) – The SSC and equivalent exams start today at 10 a.m., with the Bangla First Paper exam being held on the first day. A total of 19,28,970 students from 30,045 schools and madrasas across the country will take the exams. This year, exams are being conducted in 3,715 centers nationwide, and the exams will continue until May 13.
 
The number of students participating this year has decreased by nearly 1 lakh compared to last year. In 2024, 20,24,192 students took the exam, while in 2023, the number was 20,72,163. The decline in participants is mainly due to various factors, including financial difficulties, child marriage, illness, or failure to pass the preliminary tests.
 
According to the education authorities, the reduction in the number of participants is considered a normal part of the educational cycle. Not every student who registers for the exams ends up taking them, and it does not necessarily indicate student dropout.
 
Factors Behind Fewer Students
Several school heads have pointed out that student numbers may fluctuate due to various reasons such as financial issues, illness, or poor performance in pre-exam tests. Mojeda Begum, acting principal of Vikarunnisa Noon School and College, mentioned that such variations in the number of participants are normal and expected from year to year.
 
Government Measures to Ensure Exam Security
The Ministry of Education has taken several steps to prevent question leaks and maintain a smooth exam environment. Additionally, the Ministry has asked the Power Division to ensure continuous electricity supply at exam centers, especially since exams are being held during the summer months.
 
The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has also issued a restriction, prohibiting the public from entering within 200 meters of the exam centers. This restriction will be strictly enforced during the exam hours to maintain order and prevent any disruptions.
 
Exam Procedures
The exam will follow a strict rule: no one other than students and exam officials will be allowed to enter the 200-meter radius around each center. This security measure is in place to ensure the safety and fairness of the exams.
 
END/MSS/AJ/