New Delhi (Agency): A school in Kolkata has found itself at the center of controversy after losing its affiliation with the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examination (CISCE). This decision has left 237 students, who are in the secondary and higher secondary sections, uncertain about taking their board exams in 2024.
Parents of the affected students held a large protest on Thursday, focusing their attention on Richard Gasper, the principal of St Augustine’s Day School located on Ripon Street in the city. Although rumors spread that the principal was physically attacked by some parents, police officials denied any such event took place.
Principal Gasper admitted to losing the affiliation but assured the parents that discussions are underway with CISCE officials. He aims to ensure that the students will be able to sit for their board exams in 2024 without losing a year.
The protesting parents accused the school of hiding information. They claim that the CISCE had warned the school about the potential loss of affiliation due to the run-down condition of the school building on Ripon Street. According to them, the school chose not to disclose this information.
In response, the principal stated that plans are already in place to move the school to a new location at AJC Bose Road, also in central Kolkata. He added that this change of address has been communicated to the CISCE. The principal also mentioned that the loss of affiliation is only temporary and that it will be restored soon.
The incident highlights the stress and uncertainty that such administrative changes can bring to students and their families. It also raises questions about the level of transparency between school administrations and parents, especially when it concerns the future of their children’s education.
