Goa Board Issues Detailed Circular on New Class X Compensation Scheme
The Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education has released a comprehensive circular outlining the specifics of its newly introduced compensation scheme for Class X students, effective from the current academic year. This initiative aims to provide a structured pathway for students who may struggle in certain subjects while emphasizing the importance of foundational knowledge.
Clarification on Minimum Marks Requirement
In a significant update, the board has clarified that students must score at least 10% marks in the two subjects they do not clear to be eligible for the compensation scheme. This requirement ensures that candidates cannot simply pass four subjects and neglect the remaining two entirely. Bhagirath Shetye, the chairperson of the Goa Board, emphasized this point, stating, "The minimum marks required in the two subjects that they do not clear had to be clarified. It is not that the student can pass four subjects and score zero in the two subjects and avail compensation scheme. In the other two subjects, the student had to score a minimum of 10%."
Overview of the Compensation Scheme
As previously announced, the compensation scheme allows students to be declared pass if they clear any four of the six regular subjects in Class X, starting from the 2025-26 academic session. However, the board has now integrated this with skill-based subjects to create a more holistic assessment framework. Key components of the scheme include:
- Students will have six regular subjects and four skill-based subjects, such as vocational education, art education, and physical education.
- If a student fails in up to two regular subjects but achieves at least 60% in two skill-based subjects and a minimum of 45% in the other two skill-based subjects, they will be considered to have passed.
- The circular specifies that to avail the compensation scheme in a maximum of two subjects, a candidate must secure a minimum of 10% marks in the theory and board practical components, where applicable. This requirement does not apply to skill-based or school assessment-based subjects.
Changes to Existing Policies
With the introduction of this compensation scheme, the previous systems for grace marks and condonation marks will no longer be in effect. This shift represents a move towards a more standardized and transparent evaluation process, focusing on compensatory measures rather than discretionary adjustments.
Continuation of ATKT Scheme
For students who do not clear Class X even after applying the compensation scheme, the 'Allowed to Keep Term' (ATKT) scheme will remain available. Candidates placed under ATKT will have the opportunity to appear for supplementary examinations to improve their performance and achieve the required passing standards.
This circular underscores the Goa Board's commitment to enhancing educational outcomes while maintaining academic rigor. By setting clear guidelines, the board aims to support students in overcoming challenges and succeeding in their secondary education journey.
