CBSE launches 2024 exam stress counselling

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has commenced its annual psychological counselling initiative for students and parents ahead of the 2024 Board exams, starting from January 1, 2024. The primary goal of this programme is to equip students and their parents with effective tools and techniques to manage exam-related stress. Practical exams for CBSE classes X and XII commenced on January 1, with theory exams scheduled to begin on February 15, 2024.

This psychological counselling programme will be conducted in two phases – first, before the exams, and second, after the release of results, aiming to support classes X and XII students of CBSE-affiliated schools in navigating stress during and after examinations. The CBSE has been implementing this counselling initiative since 1998, making this its 26th consecutive year.

The Board highlighted its active engagement with students through various online platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram, along with the dissemination of essential information on social media over the years. The CBSE emphasised the availability of audio-visual content addressing youth experiences, aggression, depression, internet addiction disorder, examination stress, and multimedia content covering topics like specific learning disabilities, substance use disorders, and life skills to manage them effectively.

Key features of the CBSE counselling programme include access to Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS) facilities round the clock. Students and parents can avail themselves of this service by calling the toll-free number, 1800-11-8004. The IVRS provides key contact details for CBSE offices, frequently asked questions (FAQs), stress-free exam preparation tips, and time and stress management guidance in both Hindi and English.