Why do boys underperform in board exams?

That the boys are lagging behind girls in the results of board exams in Bangladesh is not a new phenomenon, but the recently published SSC results once again brought this issue into the spotlight. As girls consistently outperforming boys in secondary and higher secondary education, even Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina felt it is necessary to delve into the underlying factors contributing to this trend and explore potential solutions. Thus, she instructed the authorities concerned to find out why the boys are lagging behind.

One prominent explanation put forth by educationists is the pervasive influence of technology, particularly mobile phones and social media platforms, on boys' academic performance. While technology undoubtedly offers myriad benefits, excessive screen time can lead to inattentiveness and a lack of focus in class. In contrast, girls are often portrayed as more diligent and attentive, which translates into better academic outcomes.

Parental control also plays a crucial role, with girls typically receiving stricter supervision compared to boys. This oversight may contribute to girls' ability to stay focused on their studies and resist the distractions of social media and other non-academic activities. Additionally, government initiatives aimed at promoting girls' education, preventing child marriage, and offering scholarships have further boosted girls' participation and success in education.

While celebrating girls' achievements is important, it's equally crucial to address the root causes of boys' underperformance. The concerns raised by the prime minister about the involvement of teenagers in gangs highlight the broader societal challenges facing young boys.

Experts point to the need for boys to adopt the same values and responsibilities instilled in girls to achieve educational parity. This entails promoting discipline, minimising distractions, and fostering a supportive academic environment for all students.

Faruk Mahmud

Student

Department of English

Dhaka University

[email protected]