Maharashtra minister urges universities to adopt “carry on” scheme for student welfare

To bolster student welfare and academic continuity, Maharashtra's Higher and Technical Education Minister, Chandrakant Patil, has called on all non-agricultural universities across the state to adopt the “Carry On” scheme. This initiative, already successfully implemented by the Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education (MSBTE), is designed to ensure that students do not lose an academic year due to unforeseen challenges in passing examinations.

The “Carry On” scheme provides a safety net for students who encounter academic difficulties. Instead of being forced to repeat an entire year for failing a subject or facing temporary setbacks, eligible students are allowed to progress to the next academic year while continuing to receive support to overcome their challenges. This approach not only mitigates the adverse impact of isolated academic hurdles but also fosters an environment where learning and growth are prioritized over rigid adherence to traditional progression criteria.

Minister Patil’s appeal is rooted in a firm belief that education should be a continuous journey rather than a series of punitive setbacks. By urging non-agricultural universities to implement this system, he aims to offer students a second chance to succeed without the interruption that typically accompanies academic failure. The minister emphasized that the scheme is crucial for promoting academic excellence and student well-being by providing the necessary flexibility to accommodate unforeseen circumstances, whether they stem from personal challenges, health issues, or other external factors.

The potential impact of this initiative is significant. Thousands of students across Maharashtra stand to benefit from the “Carry On” scheme, as it not only reduces the pressure associated with high-stakes examinations but also supports a more inclusive approach to education. Students who might have otherwise been derailed by a single setback now have the opportunity to catch up and improve their understanding of difficult subjects without the stigma of repeating a year.

Universities are expected to integrate the “Carry On” scheme into their existing academic frameworks by setting clear guidelines for its application and ensuring that adequate support systems, such as remedial classes and counseling services, are in place. This move is anticipated to contribute to a more resilient and adaptable educational environment in the state.

As Maharashtra’s higher education institutions consider this transformative proposal, the “Carry On” scheme is poised to reshape academic policies, emphasizing compassion and practicality over strict, conventional academic progression.