SSC exams to begin on Tuesday across Bangladesh

Public examinations at the secondary level are set to begin across Bangladesh on Tuesday, with more than 1.85 million students expected to take part in this year’s Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and equivalent assessments.

Officials say preparations have been finalised to ensure the examinations are conducted in an orderly and transparent manner across the country. The details were outlined at a press briefing held at the Secretariat in Dhaka, where Prime Minister’s Adviser Mahdi Amin spoke alongside Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon.

According to official figures, a total of 1,857,344 candidates are registered this year, drawn from more than 30,000 educational institutions. The examinations will be held at 3,885 centres nationwide. The gender distribution remains nearly balanced, with just over 930,000 male candidates and more than 927,000 female students.

The majority of candidates—over 1.4 million—will sit for exams under the general education boards. Meanwhile, more than 300,000 students are appearing for the Dakhil examination under the Madrasah Education Board, and around 135,000 candidates will take part in vocational SSC exams administered by the Technical Education Board.

Authorities have sought to reassure students and families, emphasising efforts to create a supportive and less stressful environment. Speaking at the briefing, Mahdi Amin encouraged candidates not to feel overwhelmed, noting that reducing exam-related anxiety remains a priority for the government.

Particular consideration is being given to this cohort of students, many of whom did not sit earlier public examinations due to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, this marks their first experience of a full-syllabus nationwide test, prompting additional measures to ensure a smooth process.

Education officials say exam centres have been instructed to maintain adequate facilities, including safe drinking water, proper lighting, ventilation and sanitation. Backup electricity arrangements have also been put in place to minimise disruptions.

Security arrangements have been strengthened, with law enforcement agencies tasked with maintaining order and ensuring safe access to exam venues. Special attention is being given to the movement and safety of female candidates, while efforts are underway to reduce traffic congestion around centres during examination hours.

Invigilators have been advised to avoid placing undue pressure on students and to provide assistance where necessary, particularly in clarifying any ambiguities in question papers. Authorities have also stressed the importance of fair and accurate evaluation of answer scripts to ensure that candidates receive the marks they deserve.

Officials expressed confidence that, with these measures in place, students across Bangladesh will be able to sit their examinations in a calm and secure environment, marking a significant milestone in their academic journey.