The Bangladesh Inter-Education Board Coordination Committee has announced that the ongoing HSC and equivalent examinations for 2026 will proceed as scheduled across most of the country, despite concerns over adverse weather conditions.
In an official directive issued Monday, the committee addressed the anxieties of students and parents, emphasising that the safety of candidates remains the “highest priority.”
While exams are continuing nationwide, the committee confirmed that examinations under the Chattogram Education Board have been suspended until 16 July. This decision was taken as various exam centres in the region were damaged by severe flooding, making it impossible for students to reach their destinations safely.
The suspension follows reports and recommendations from respective upazila nirbahi officers (UNOs) and district commissioners (DCs) regarding the ground reality in affected areas.
A total of 1,210,583 students are appearing for this year’s HSC and equivalent exams at 2,697 centres. The committee noted that because the exams are conducted using a uniform question paper system across all boards, suspending exams for a single board is technically challenging.
The directive highlighted that most exam centres remain fit for operation, with local administrations, law enforcement, and education authorities ensuring a conducive environment.
Citing a specific incident from this morning, the committee mentioned that adverse weather caused significant transport difficulties for students at Cumilla Government Women’s College.
However, through the “sincere cooperation” of the local administration, centre officials, and parents, students were able to arrive at the centre on time and participate in the exam.
Academic calendar concerns
The committee warned that repeated suspensions of examinations could lead to significant disruptions, including delays in publishing results and university admissions, ultimately harming the overall academic calendar.
The official notice clarified that if natural disasters pose a severe threat to student safety or the conduct of exams in any specific region, the respective District Commissioner (DC) has the authority to evaluate the situation and take immediate necessary decisions.
Students have been advised to follow the official directives of the Education Boards and the Ministry of Education. Due to the adverse weather, candidates are requested to start for their respective centres with “adequate time” to ensure a safe journey.
The directive was signed by Professor Syed Mashiuzzaman, president of the Bangladesh Inter-Education Board Coordination Committee and chairman of the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, Dhaka.
