assam-govt-proposes-merger-of-class-10-and-12-boards-plans-creation-of-new-universities

The Assam government has unveiled plans to merge the state boards for Class 10 and 12, aiming to streamline secondary education management. 

The proposed Assam State School Education Board (ASSEB) will amalgamate the existing Board of Secondary Education, Assam (SEBA), and Assam Higher Secondary Education Council (AHSEC), as outlined in the Assam State School Education Board Bill, 2024 presented in the Assembly.

The new board, spearheaded by a nominated chairman, aims to enhance standards and quality in school education across the state. The ASSEB, comprising 21 members with a renewable three-year term, seeks to regulate and supervise secondary education effectively.

Education Minister Ranoj Pegu emphasized the objective of the bill, highlighting the government's commitment to developing and supervising school education standards in Assam.

This strategic move follows a decision taken by the state cabinet in November last year, chaired by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The decision comes in the wake of two question paper leaks during the Class 10 board examinations conducted by SEBA in 2023, necessitating rescheduling of examinations.

Additionally, the government has proposed the creation of two new state-run universities in Sonitpur and Kokrajhar districts. The Swahid Kanaklata Barua State University in Gohpur, Sonitpur district, and Kokrajhar University, to be established by upgrading the existing Kokrajhar Government College, aim to bolster educational infrastructure in the region.

The Swahid Kanaklata Barua State University Bill, 2024, envisions a comprehensive institute offering teaching, residential, and affiliating university facilities, including open and distance learning. On the other hand, the Kokrajhar University Bill, 2024, outlines plans for a research-oriented, teaching, affiliating, and semi-residential university, complemented by an open and distance learning center.

With Assam currently hosting a total of 22 universities, including state-run, central, and private institutions, the proposed additions signify a concerted effort to expand educational opportunities and infrastructure across the state.