KOLKATA: The Council for Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) on Wednesday issued a set of guidelines on inclusive assistance (discounts, benefits etc.) in examinations to cater to the “diverse needs of learners”, with the initiative coming into force from 2025.
Citing provisions purportedly covered in the RPwD Act, 2016, a press statement signed by Additional Chief Secretary Sangeeta Bhatia said, “However, the landscape of learning needs is changing and recognising the limitations of relying solely on the disability classification mentioned in the Act, CISCE has taken a landmark decision to widen the scope of its guidelines to include learning needs related to disability conditions not falling under the benchmark disability status, and borderline intellectual functioning (BIF). By encompassing these diverse learning needs, CISCE aims to create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.”
There are five highlights in the guidelines, which include categorical derogations, compensation time extended from 15 to 20 minutes in line with recent national directives, relaxation of attendance on a case-by-case basis, wider access to assistive and adaptive devices including communication tools, special consideration regarding advance access to examination rooms and seats for students on the autism spectrum, provisions to ensure building of an effective link between the reader or reader-writer or teleprompter, and provisions to allow earplugs or earmuffs to manage distractions during the examination.
The guidelines allow 15 minutes extra time for one-hour exams, 30 minutes for two-hour exams and 45 minutes for three-hour exams, but this is subject to variation. More time may be given in subjects such as English and History if a disability makes it difficult to write. Questions may be read out to candidates with vision or reading disabilities, but no explanations are allowed.
Principals said the council has long given special consideration to candidates with special needs. Sonali Sen, principal of DPS New Town school, said: “The council has been very generous in giving the kids extra time, extra essay time and all the help they need. Now it has become more comprehensive. They have also been told to keep a close eye on medical certificates and other documents that need to be verified.”
“The current one is more in tune with the times,” said Rodney Borneo, principal of St Augustine’s Day School in Shyamnagar. “We lack some natural talent, but we also have some very talented students. With the right support, they can thrive,” said Sujoy Biswas, principal of Rammohan Missionary School.