WBCHSE introduces semester system in state-run schools, Know more

The West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education (WBCHSE) has introduced a semester system for classes 11 and 12. Starting from the current academic session (2024-25) for class 11 and the following academic session (2025-26) for class 12, all state-run and state-aided schools will adopt this system. Chiranjib Bhattacharya, the board's president, issued a notice on April 18, informing about the implementation of the semester system.

The board exams will be conducted after the completion of the third and fourth semesters. School heads and teachers have been briefed about the new system, which divides higher secondary or 10+2 into four parts: Semester 1, Semester 2, Semester 3, and Semester 4. Class 11 will consist of Semesters 1 and 2, while Class 12 will be restructured as Semesters 3 and 4, starting from the upcoming academic years.

Furthermore, it suggested summer internship opportunities for students to engage with media outlets, publishing houses, and corporate firms to address topics of their interest.
In August, the draft of the new state education policy was disclosed. Board exams will be held after the completion of the third and fourth semesters, as per the council's decision.

The current 4+4+2+2 system, wherein students spend four years in the foundation stage, followed by four years in upper primary (preparatory stage), and finally two years (Classes IX and X) in secondary education, will remain unchanged, as per the education policy developed by an empowered committee.