Karnataka Governor Intervenes in SSLC Third Language Grading Debate
The contentious debate surrounding Karnataka's decision to shift from marks to grades for the third language in Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) examinations has now reached the highest levels of state administration. Governor Thawaar Chand Gehlot's office has formally advised the state government to conduct a comprehensive review of this significant educational policy change.
Official Communication from Raj Bhavan
In a detailed letter addressed to Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh, Special Secretary to the Governor R Prabhu Shankar forwarded a representation submitted by the Association for Preservation of Local Languages, Bengaluru. The official communication stated, "I am directed to forward herewith a copy of a representation submitted by the Association for Preservation of Local Languages, Bengaluru, addressed to the Governor of Karnataka, concerning the recent decision to award only grades for the third language in SSLC examination."
The governor has taken serious note of the objections raised and has directed the government to examine the issue thoroughly, considering both academic implications and administrative aspects. The chief secretary has been instructed to consult with the Department of School Education and other relevant stakeholders before arriving at any final decision regarding this matter.
Concerns Raised by Language Preservation Groups
The Association for Preservation of Local Languages has presented a compelling argument against the grading system, warning that replacing traditional marks with grades could potentially dilute the academic significance of third language studies. The group emphasized that "third language plays an important role in promoting linguistic diversity, awareness and intellectual growth among students" and expressed concern that eliminating marks might discourage students from taking the subject seriously.
Beyond student motivation, the association has flagged broader concerns among teachers, parents, and educationists regarding the possible long-term impact on educational quality and inclusiveness. These stakeholders worry that the grading system might undermine the rigorous assessment framework that has traditionally governed language education in Karnataka.
Background of the Policy Change
Last month, State Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa announced that Karnataka would adopt a grading system for the third language in SSLC examinations. Under this proposed new system, total marks for SSLC exams would be reduced from 625 to 525. The education minister clarified that "there will be no fail or pass for the third language paper" and that only grades such as A, B, C, or D would be awarded.
The third language subjects affected by this change include:
- Hindi
- Kannada
- English
- Arabic
- Urdu
- Sanskrit
- Konkani
- Tulu
- Marathi
Broader Context of Language Politics
This debate occurs against a backdrop of ongoing language politics in Karnataka. Various pro-Kannada organizations have previously argued that Hindi was being imposed on students through educational policies. While Hindi is not the only third language option available in the state, it remains the subject offered in most schools, making this grading system change particularly significant for language education across the region.
The governor's intervention represents a crucial development in this educational policy discussion, potentially signaling a more cautious approach to implementing sweeping changes in assessment methodology for language subjects in Karnataka's school education system.
