Government refuses to defer HSC exams, Wednesday's tests to go ahead

Officials say weather no longer justifies another delay outside the flood-hit Chattogram region

The government has decided to press ahead with Wednesday's HSC and equivalent exams outside the flood-hit Chattogram region despite daylong student protests demanding a postponement.

Prime Minister's Advisor Mahdi Amin said in a Facebook post around 10pm on Tuesday that the decision had been made after considering the prevailing situation.

"Discussions were held in the morning with divisional commissioners, deputy commissioners, police superintendents and the chairmen of all education boards," he said.

"A consensus was reached that conditions remain favourable for holding exams nationwide, except under the Chattogram education board.

“At the same time, no student's hardship is acceptable, and authorities have been instructed to take immediate action where needed."

The decision came despite protesters warning of a long march to the Secretariat if Wednesday's tests were not postponed.

Cumilla education board Deputy Controller of Examinations Md Salahuddin told bdnews24.com there was no justification for cancelling Wednesday's exams outside Chattogram, citing improved weather conditions.

On Wednesday, Physics Second Paper, Accounting Second Paper and Logic Second Paper exams will be held under the country's nine general education boards, excluding Chattogram.

Outside the five districts of the Chattogram region, Alim Arabic Second Paper, HSC BM Business Organisation and Management I and II, Vocational Higher Mathematics I and II, and Diploma in Commerce Higher Accounting exams will also be held.