Assam May Roll Back to Jan-Dec Academic Year for Schools

The Assam government is exploring the possibility of switching back to the January-December academic year for schools, citing ongoing disruptions caused by seasonal floods, local festivals, and high temperatures early in the academic calendar.

Currently, schools in the state follow an April-March academic session — a system introduced in 2021 in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. The change aimed to align the school year with national-level entrance exams and college admission timelines. However, the shift has sparked criticism from several quarters, especially teachers and student organisations.

To assess the feasibility of reverting to the previous system, the state education department has set up a three-member committee. The panel comprises senior officials: Additional Secretary Krishna Baruah, Secondary Education Director Mamata Hojai, and Elementary Education Director Suranjana Senapati.

"The committee will identify 10 education experts for consultation. We’ll also involve student unions, teacher associations, and other relevant groups before any final decision is taken," said a senior education official familiar with the matter.

Many believe the April-March session has not worked well for Assam due to its unique climatic and cultural calendar. Student assessments have been impacted by Bihu celebrations, Eid, annual floods, and the rising summer heat, which often disrupt classroom learning during the crucial first quarter of the year.

According to Ratul Chandra Goswami, General Secretary of the Assam State Primary Teachers’ Association, the altered timeline has caused significant learning gaps. 

“Students are being evaluated before they’ve had the chance to properly engage with the syllabus. The academic schedule has clashed with major seasonal and cultural events, leaving little room for effective teaching,” he said.
He also pointed out that the December-January period sees further academic loss due to the harsh winter, particularly in remote and rural areas where infrastructure is lacking.

The All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) also weighed in, reaffirming its opposition to the post-Covid calendar change.

“We were against the shift from the beginning. The January-December session is more suited to our socio-economic conditions. It accounts for the harvest season, floods, and festivals which are integral to life in Assam,” said AASU Education Secretary Tutumoni Kalita.

Before 2021, Assam schools operated on a calendar that ran from January to December, although board exams for Classes 10 and 12 were traditionally held in February-March, in line with national boards like CBSE.

Also Read: Guwahati Schools to Continue with Resceduled Timings Amid Heatwave