Online test likely to be introduced in HSLC exam from 2014

GUWAHATI, June 10: From 2014, HSLC candidates are likely to appear for an onlinetest of 50 marks. This was announced by State Education Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma today. This is part of the State Government's move to usherin reforms in secondary education.

Sarma said, "At present eachsubject carries 100 marks. But from 2014 onwards, HSLC candidates will have to appear for an online test of 50 marks and the remaining 50 marks will be allotted for descriptive answers."

He also said that from next year onwards, video cameras will be installed in all HSLC and HS examination centres. Also, each school will have its own website from next year.

The State Education Minister made these announcements while distributing cheques to principals and headmasters of 270 junior colleges and secondary schools of Kamrup district inGuwahati today. Under the Chief Minister's Innovative Scheme, grants-in aid will begiven to 2,661 junior colleges and secondary schools across the State for publication of magazines, promotion of youth festivalsand promotion of sports activities.

While Rs 50,000 will be given for publication of the college/school magazine, Rs 25,000 will be given for promotion of youth festivalsand Rs 25,000 for promotionof sports activities.

The magazine grant has been given with a view to promote the literary talent of the students and teachingstaff of the junior colleges and secondary schools. The Education Minister said that the best three magazines would be awarded each year.

Regarding promotion of youth festivals, the heads of the educational institutions will have to promote co-curricular activities among the students by organizing quiz, extempore speech, painting, one-act play and music competition. They will also have to organize lectures on contemporary subjects by inviting educationist and persons with excellence in the fields of art, science and education.

The junior colleges and secondary schools will also have to organize sports festivals to promote sporting skills and instilling a sense of competition among the students. The Education Minister stressed that the educational institutions will have to takepart in inter-State, inter-district or inter-school sporting events. (SENTINELASSAM)