Mon Feb 03 18:20:21 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka Delays List of Unauthorised Schools Ahead of SSLC Exams

**Bengaluru, February 3, 2025** – With the SSLC (Secondary School Leaving Certificate) examinations scheduled for March 21 to April 4, the Karnataka Department of School Education and Literacy (DSEL) has yet to release a list of unauthorized schools, causing anxiety for students attending them. Last year, approximately 5,000 students from such schools faced exam registration issues.

This year, the Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) directed students from unapproved schools not to register. The DSEL requested Deputy Directors of Public Instruction (DDPIs) to submit a list of approved and unauthorized schools, but the list remains unreleased.

Speaking to reporters, School Education and Literacy Minister Madhu Bangarappa attributed the delay to coordination challenges with other departments, including Revenue and Fire and Safety, which are involved in land conversion and safety inspections. He cited the need for careful consideration to avoid displacing students. In July 2024, the Minister stated that there were 993 unauthorized schools in the state.

Minister Bangarappa also declined to comment on the hijab issue during exams, stating he would discuss it with the Home Minister.

Following a significant drop in the SSLC pass percentage from 83.89% in 2022-23 to 73.4% in 2023-24, the DSEL implemented a 20-point improvement program. While noting progress in some districts, Bangarappa acknowledged the need for further work in others. The 10% grace marks provided last year due to webcasting issues will not be offered this year. The Minister expressed confidence that the three-exam system, initially confusing for students, is now better understood.

Finally, the DSEL announced plans for a new “Skill at School” program, to be implemented after school hours, offering supplementary skills training for students across all grades. Details are expected in the upcoming budget.

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