Addressing the Crisis of Expulsions and Absenteeism

Every year, the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) exam brings a mix of hope and anxiety for students, parents and teachers. It is more than a test—it shapes future opportunities. Yet recurring issues such as expulsion, rising absenteeism and parental pressure reveal deeper weaknesses in the education system.

Expulsion for malpractice remains a persistent problem. Many students, feeling unprepared, turn to unfair means. In some centres, weak monitoring also contributes. The consequences go beyond losing an exam—expulsion can damage a student’s confidence and future prospects.

Absenteeism is equally concerning. Students miss exams due to illness, family issues or mental stress. In recent years, exam anxiety has become more visible. Fear of failure and high expectations often discourage students from even sitting for exams, undermining a year’s effort.

Parents play a central role in this situation. Their hopes for their children’s success can sometimes turn into pressure. Constant comparisons and unrealistic expectations can make students doubt themselves and fear failure. This often leads to poor decisions, including avoidance or misconduct.

These problems are not unsolvable. Students need support to build confidence and value honesty over results. Teachers must create a supportive environment and prepare students mentally, not just academically. Parents should encourage without imposing pressure, respecting each child’s ability and limits.

Expulsion, absenteeism and parental anxiety are closely linked. Addressing them requires coordinated efforts from students, teachers, parents and policymakers. A fair, humane and supportive education system is essential.

Education should not be reduced to exam results. It is a process of personal and moral development. Recognising this is key to lasting reform.

The challenges continue after the SSC results. College admissions bring new stress. Many students fail to secure seats in preferred institutions despite good results due to limited capacity and high demand, especially in major cities.

The online admission system, while helpful, often faces technical issues such as server failures and incorrect data. Even high-achieving students may not be selected in the first list, forcing them to wait through multiple rounds. This increases uncertainty and anxiety.

Parents also struggle with the complex admission process. Lack of clear information leads to poor choices. There are complaints about extra fees in some institutions, adding financial pressure on families.

Students in rural areas face greater difficulties due to limited internet access and lack of guidance. As a result, many capable students miss opportunities in better institutions.

Experts suggest simplifying the admission process, ensuring transparency and improving digital systems. Increasing the number of seats is also necessary. Without reform, these problems will persist year after year.