In an effort to align national examinations and assessments with international standards, the Ministry of Education and Skills Development has begun piloting a joint certification by the Bhutan Council for School Examination and Assessment (BCSEA) and Cambridge. Students will begin receiving the joint certification after completing Class XII from next year. Joint certification will allow BCSEA examination to be recognised as equivalent to the Cambridge International Assessment System.
The BCSEA will conduct the exams, and students will receive joint certificates bearing both BCSEA and Cambridge seals.
By doing this, it will enhance the credibility of the certification and strengthen its global recognition.
Kinley Dorji, Assessment Specialist, BCSEA said, ‘‘There are lots of opportunities for students. For instance, it will help them get admission to international universities for further studies. Though we are already recognised, after the joint certification, it will make a difference, as it recognises the BCSEA certificate as equal to Cambridge. It will create greater opportunities to gain admission and jobs at the international level.’’
According to officials, the examinations for the joint certification will be fully competency-based, requiring higher-order thinking skills.
While the programme is still in its pilot phase, Class XI students this year will receive the joint certification next year after completing Class XII.
Students currently in Class X will be awarded the certification in 2028.
Sonam Yuden
