Chennai: The Tamil Nadu School Education Department has initiated intensified monitoring measures to improve the performance of Class 10 and Plus Two students in the forthcoming public examinations, officials said.

With the objective of increasing the overall pass percentage compared to last year, the department has been conducting monthly evaluation tests to assess students' preparedness. School Education Director Kannappan has instructed Chief Educational Officers to identify academically weak students and ensure focused interventions to help them clear the examinations.

Accordingly, students who performed poorly in quarterly examinations are being provided with additional academic support through special morning and evening coaching sessions. Digital platforms, including WhatsApp groups, are also being used to reinforce learning. These efforts are being carried out under the 'Vagai Sooduvom' programme, aimed at improving learning outcomes. Model examinations are being held regularly, with students given guidance through answer keys and important questions, officials said.

In districts where pass percentages remain low, District Collectors have been directed to monitor the functioning of underperforming schools. In Tiruppur district, special officers such as the Corporation Commissioner, Deputy Collector and District Revenue Officer have been assigned to oversee 40 identified schools until the completion of the public examinations.

However, the move has triggered criticism from teachers' associations. Direct Recruitment Post Graduate Teachers Association deputy general secretary Thangapandian said assigning officials from outside the education department to monitor schools undermines the authority of education officials and school headmasters, and amounts to an unwarranted slight on the teaching profession.