SHILLONG: In a landmark move to bring thousands of out-of-school youth back into the education system, the Meghalaya State Cabinet today approved a major policy reform to simplify the registration of Private Candidates for the Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) examination under the Meghalaya Board of School Education (MBOSE).
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said the decision is aimed at students who dropped out after Class 8 or failed to clear their SSLC exams due to personal, financial, or social constraints, but still aspire to complete their matriculation.
Addressing the media after the Cabinet meeting, Sangma noted that many willing candidates were earlier discouraged by rigid rules and complex permissions. “We have realised that there are many who want to return and pass Class 10, but restrictive procedures were holding them back. We have now streamlined the system to make it easier,” he said.
Under the new policy, any student who has completed Class 8 or failed SSLC in earlier attempts can register as a private candidate, without the requirement of attending regular daily classes. This move is expected to benefit working youth and those unable to rejoin formal schooling.
The Chief Minister stressed that the reform goes beyond awarding certificates, calling it a step towards social empowerment. Clearing SSLC, he said, will enable candidates to access higher education, skill development programmes, and better employment opportunities.
Encouraging eligible youth to take advantage of the policy, Sangma said, “This is your opportunity to complete your matriculation, regardless of past circumstances.”
The initiative is also expected to help the state reduce dropout rates and promote a more inclusive and flexible education system in Meghalaya.
