SSC to relax norms for special needs' students

The SSC board has agreed to grant concessions such as extra time during examinations and assigning conveniently located exam centres to students battling serious? diseases such as cancer, which were so far granted only to differently-abled students. BMC education committee member Shivnath Darade and Shikshak Parishad-Mumbai division President Anil Bornare had contacted board officials after being approached by Cankids, an organisation that provides education and school support to children undergoing cancer treatment.

In January, the state education department issued a Government Resolution (GR) on concessions for differently-abled children. However, providing concessions to students suffering from diseases like cancer was not covered under the GR.

According to Bornare, Cankids provides educational and school support to children undergoing cancer treatment who come to Mumbai from across the state. Six students supported by Cankids are appearing for SSC board examination from different parts of the state this year and need concession from the board during the exam.

The organisation supports these children by educating them at a school near Parel bridge. Bornare, said, "We will provide concessions like extra time during examination for these kids and also concessions like getting examination centre near their house if they ask for."