Berhampur: The School and Mass Education department and officials at several districts are now working overtime to ensure that the matriculation examination is conducted in a smooth manner across Odisha.
The Board of Secondary Education (BSE) officials are also on their toes while the District Education Officers are providing trainings to block education officials and centre superintendents on how to conduct the examination in a transparent manner.
On the other hand, anxious students are consulting teachers to get their doubts on various subjects clarified ahead of the HSC exam starting from February 23.
"During classes all the subjects are being revised and doubts are being cleared by teachers. I hope to secure good marks in the HSC exam," said Raj Kumar Moharana, a student.
"After pre-board exam, crash courses have started at the school. I am hopeful to secure above 92% marks in the exam," said another student A. Jyotirmaye Patra.
S. Mohan Rao, chairman, Nilakantheswar Saraswati Sishu Vidya Mandir, Berhampur, said, "After pre-board exam, arrangements have been made for students to practice in OMR-based pattern and special classes are being organised to clear doubts and motivate students."
On the other hand, armed forces have also been deployed at all nodal centres to keep a 24-hour vigil. Sources said, the question papers as well as other confidential materials have been kept at such nodal centres.
The question papers will be despatched to concerned centres a day before the examination.
A three-tier squad system has been put in place by district education officials to check incidents of malpractices during the examination.