Edu dept: Students passing out Class 11 should be admitted to Class 12 in same college

Ranchi: The School Education and Literacy Department has directed that students who have passed Class XI from degree colleges can be allowed to complete Class XII from the same institutes during the ongoing academic session. As the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is being implemented across all universities in Jharkhand, the state education department is facing a complex situation regarding the continuation of intermediate education, particularly for students transitioning from Class XI to Class XII in affiliated colleges.

According to an official, the NEP mandates the restructuring of school and higher education, under which intermediate education (classes XI and XII) must be conducted strictly through the 10+2 format. Following this rule, the department earlier issued a letter directing that the students enrolled in classes XI and XII under the 2024–26 session in affiliated colleges should be admitted to govt or upgraded +2 high schools, or approved inter colleges located within a 5-km radius from their place of residence or the nearest convenient place.

According to the letter, serious concerns have been raised by several districts by public representatives, student bodies, and educational associations on stopping Class XI students of colleges from continuing Class XII admissions.

However, reports indicated that in many areas, eligible institutes within the mandated 5-km radius do not exist, making it difficult for students. Further, the forced transition is likely to disrupt their academic continuity, especially for students who have already completed Class XI in affiliated colleges and are midway through the two-year intermediate cycle.

The letter, stated "The issue becomes more pressing given that the state has already had high dropout rates in classes XI and XII. If the students are forced to shift institutes mid-session, it may lead to increased dropout cases, especially among those from rural, economically weaker, or marginalised backgrounds. The intention is to protect the academic interests of the students and ensure that they are not subjected to unnecessary institutional changes that could impact their performance and morale."

The department has also emphasised that a decision must be made in the larger interest of educational continuity and student welfare, while aligning with the long-term objectives of the NEP 2020.