SHILLONG, JAN 16: In a major boost for school dropouts and failed students, the Meghalaya government has approved a new provision allowing private candidates to register and appear for the Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) examination under the Meghalaya Board of School Education (MBoSE).
The decision was taken during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Friday. Announcing the move, Sangma said the government aims to provide a second chance to students who were unable to clear the matriculation examination or discontinued their studies after completing upper primary education.
“There are a large number of students who, in the past, could not clear the matric exams. Many also drop out after upper primary when they enter secondary level due to various reasons,” the Chief Minister said.
He added that the new provision would allow such students, including those who failed earlier attempts, to reappear for the SSLC examination as private candidates.
“We want to give that option to them. This decision will encourage many youngsters who, due to different circumstances, could not complete their schooling earlier,” Sangma stated.
The initiative is expected to benefit a significant number of students across the state by reopening pathways to complete secondary education, improve employability, and pursue higher studies.
The move has been widely welcomed as a progressive step towards inclusive education in Meghalaya, ensuring that no student is permanently left behind due to past academic setbacks.