14 December,2010 07:06 AM IST | | Alifiya Khan
State education dept formally introduces best-five for FYJC admissions; parents, teachers welcome move
If the government has its way in the Supreme Court, the best-five formula will be permanently followed for junior college admissions. In a government resolution dated December 3, the school education department formally introduced the best-five formula in the Maharashtra Secondary and Higher Secondary Boards Regulations Act, 1977.
Until now, the department was contemplating if next year's admission should be based on best-five formula for all boards or if the percentile system that was introduced a few years ago should be re-introduced.
A senior official from the school education department said best-five would be the only formula for junior college admissions across all boards.
He said that though the state had cleared the formula, the final decision rested with the Supreme Court, which is hearing the issue of best-five formula and is likely to announce its decision in February.
"It is final and that is why has been formally introduced in the act as well, to do away with confusion. All FYJC admissions will happen according to the best-five formula. This decision would be permanent only if the SC approves, but if the court decides on another alternative in February, then there will be no choice but to follow it," he said.
Sunil Magar, deputy director of education, said he did not want to comment though he was aware of the decision on making best-five permanent.
Both teachers and parents are hoping the best-five formula is made permanent.
"The best-five is a good formula and seemed fair to students from all boards. When it was applied last year, it was much appreciated. For now, it seems to be the best arrangement, as exams are already near and students are preparing for them keeping the best-five in mind," said Lily Patel, principal of Sardar Dastoor Boys High School.
Leena Chaudhary, principal of Symbiosis School, said that it was a relief the best-five formula was formally introduced into the act.
"At least there will be some certainty now and no more confusion. I hope there are no last-minute changes to this formula, as the students will get flustered. Besides, this is a fair and square policy for admissions, where students get to put their best foot forward for admissions," she said.
