Teachers Urge SCERT To Reschedule PAT-2 Before Diwali, Warn Post-Vacation Exams May Add To Student Stress

Mumbai teachers and administrators have pleaded with the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) to postpone the second round of the Periodic Assessment Test (PAT-2) until after the Diwali holiday. They worry that scheduling PAT-2 following the vacation could increase students' academic and psychological stress.

The assessment is administered yearly by the state's education department for students in Classes II through VIII. The current timetable positions PAT-2 after the Diwali break, causing teachers to note that students would need to prepare for first-term exams beforehand and then immediately dive back into studying after returning from the holidays.

Education experts argue that the Diwali break should allow students to unwind and reconnect with their families rather than immediately returning to a rigorous academic schedule. Tanaji Kamble, the state president of the Maharashtra Progressive Teachers' Association, stated that students require a positive atmosphere for continued learning post-Diwali, rather than an immediate jump into exam prep.

Furthermore, Mahendra Ganpule, a former head of the state principal association, noted that planning first-term exams for late October already places a significant burden on schools. If PAT-2 is set for November, students may have limited time to acclimate to regular classroom learning before facing the pressure of another assessment.

The Maharashtra Teachers' Association and educators are urging the Education Commissioner and SCERT to review the timing and consider rescheduling PAT-2 to ensure students have ample preparation time without sacrificing their mental well-being.