The academic calendar released by the Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSEB) has triggered concern among students, parents and teachers, as the first examinations for Classes 9 to 12 have been scheduled immediately after Navratri and Dussehra.
On Thursday, teachers and parents urged the Education Minister to reconsider the schedule, saying students would not get enough time to prepare because of the festive season.
They also demanded that annual examinations for Classes 9 and 11 be completed by March 27 instead of April 27, so that students can begin preparations for Classes 10 and 12 board examinations from April onwards.
Navratri, one of Gujarat’s biggest festivals, is celebrated widely across the state. For several years, there have been demands to reduce academic activities and provide vacations during the festival period.
According to the 2026-27 academic calendar, the first examinations for Classes 9 to 12 are scheduled between October 22 and November 2. This year, Navratri will be celebrated from October 11 to October 19.
Teachers who submitted a representation to the Education Minister at Swarnim Sankul-1 on Thursday said the exam schedule would negatively affect academic planning, school management and students’ preparation.
They pointed out that Navratri celebrations mostly continue late into the night, making it difficult for students to focus on studies. Since the examinations are set to begin just three days after the festival ends, students may not get adequate preparation time.
Teachers also noted that during the 2025-26 academic year, the first examinations had been completed before Navratri. This year’s schedule, however, has created confusion and stress among students, particularly those preparing for board classes.
They have demanded that the examinations either be held at least 10 days before Navratri or postponed by 10 days after the festival.