In a significant shift aimed at raising academic standards, nearly 10% of Class VIII students in Kerala have failed to secure the newly mandated minimum of 30% marks in one or more subjects during the annual examinations. Introduced as part of an education reform strategy, the new benchmark marks a departure from the earlier no-detention policy.
To support students who fell short, the General Education Department has announced a series of remedial classes from April 8 to 24. These will be followed by re-examinations from April 25 to 28, with results expected on April 30. The initiative is designed to ensure students are equipped with essential academic skills before being promoted.
This reform is part of a broader phased plan: the minimum marks requirement will be extended to Class IX in the 2025–26 academic year, and to Class X (SSLC) by 2026–27. Education Minister V. Sivankutty emphasized that the move is not to penalize students but to empower them with better learning outcomes.
The policy aligns with a national trend as the Centre recently scrapped the no-detention policy for Classes V and VIII, mandating re-exams for students who fail. If they do not pass in the second attempt, they will be held back.
Kerala’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to nurturing academic excellence while ensuring no child is left behind.
