Maharashtra launches Open Board to start homeschooling for students; check details here

NEW DELHI, JANUARY 16, 2019: Maharashtra government has launched “Open Board” to encourage students from class 5th to 12th to pursue schooling from home. The initiative will allow more number of students to have the flexibility of pursuing school education, as many quit studies once they enter classes 9 or 10.

Sports and Education Minister Vinod Tawde was quoted saying to the Indian Express,“At the age of 10, you can appear for class 5 exam, at the age of 13 for class 8 and at the age of 15 for class 10 (SSC) exam.”

The minister also tweeted that one of the key reasons for this initiative is to encourage and empower young artists and athletes, who spend considerable time in practice and tournaments and because of this, are unable to pursue formal schooling.

According to an official announcement, the application process with regards to the Open Board initiative will remain open till January 31, however, the deadline for the application may be extended. With the launch of this initiative, students registering now will be able to appear for exams in 6 months.

For registration, students have to submit their school leaving certificate along with their identity proofs. The said exams are scheduled to be held every year in the month of June and December.

This new initiative by the state government is sure to bring cheers to parents who are unable to send their children for formal schooling for various reasons. This will also benefit students who are interested in pursuing their careers in arts or sports.