Except in 2 states, school scores dip below levels from 5 yrs ago: Survey

Academic performances in schools across the country have slipped below levels recorded in 2017, except in Punjab and Rajasthan, according to National Achievement Survey (NAS) 2021, which has captured a widening of learning gaps caused by disruptions triggered by the pandemic.

Here are some of the key patterns thrown up by the survey based on tests conducted at 1.18 lakh schools in 720 districts.

Mathematical and language skills, and conceptual understanding of environmental science, were tested.

The sum total of the scores achieved in these subjects by every state and UT, expressed in terms of percentage, was less than the national average recorded in the 2017 round of NAS — except Punjab and Rajasthan. Some states like Kerala bettered their maths score compared to 2017, but the overall score fell short.

Rajasthan, Punjab and Kerala emerged as the best performers while Telangana, Arunachal Pradesh and Chhattisgarh occupied the last three slots.