In Telangana state Intermediate First and Second Year results were released on April 22. As per the latest results, the First Year pass percentage stands at 65.96%. Out of 4,88,430 students who appeared for the First Year exams, 3,22,191 passed. In the Second Year, the pass percentage is 65.65%. Out of 5,08,582 students, 3,33,908 passed. This means more than 35% of students failed to clear the exams in both First and Second Year. After the announcement of results, it is reported that some students are experiencing severe emotional distress and even attempting suicide. In 2024 alone, 23 students in Telangana committed suicide following the Intermediate results. Nationally, over 12,000 students die by suicide every year.
These statistics are heart-wrenching, yet society remains largely unresponsive. If children are giving up their lives just for scoring fewer marks in an exam, it’s a strong indication of how flawed our education system is. Unfortunately, students are not sharing the emotional stress they’re facing with their parents or teachers, and instead are resorting to extreme steps. Unlike past years, let this year be different. For all students who couldn’t succeed in the exams, The Telangana times Telugu presents a special feature with the powerful message – “Live to Achieve.”
Major Causes of Suicides:
- Excessive Pressure on Results – The misconception that marks define life.
– Unrealistic expectations from parents. - Industrialized Education System – Sole focus on ranks and scores.
– Measuring hard work over actual intelligence. - Lack of Counseling Support – No conversations around mental health at school level.
– No emotional support system post results. - Social Stigma – Failure is seen with disdain.
– Labeling failed students as worthless.
Exams Are Not More Important Than Life:
Life is not just about one exam. A single result does not ruin your goals. But children are not in a position to understand this. Hence, they’re unable to differentiate between success and failure at a young age. The belief that “failing an exam means failing in life” is a lie society has created. Results do not define a student’s worth. A failed attempt doesn’t mean the end – you can still win a great life. Suicide is never a solution – one exam result doesn’t decide your future. But one momentary decision – to give up your life – can cause permanent trauma to your family and society. This country needs your intelligence, your energy, your talent. Defeat is just a paused moment – life still goes on. Students have the courage to move forward! Life is precious – suicide is meaningless! With patience, time will change – as long as you live, there will be opportunities. Move forward with courage.
Important Suggestions for Students:
- Result is only one step: It doesn’t define your entire life. Failing in one exam doesn’t mean you failed in life. Real life is still ahead of you.
- Take support from parents: Share your feelings with your family. They are your strength. Whether in success or failure, your parents are your forever well-wishers.
- Try again: One failure is not the end. There are many chances in life. Remember, most successful people failed in their first attempt.
- Seek help from friends: Talk to your friends when you feel alone. A simple conversation can change your state of mind.
- There are alternatives to suicide: Every problem has many solutions. Suicide is never a permanent solution for any issue.
- Say yes to the future: Got a problem? Talk about it. Open up. You’re not alone. Many people are ready to help you.
- Life is not just an exam: One result doesn’t destroy your goals. Listen to elders. Draw inspiration. Remember – Failure is the first step to success.
Suggestions for Parents:
Reduce the pressure on exam results. Build your child’s self-confidence. Observe how they’re responding emotionally. Don’t punish mistakes – understand them. Listen to what they’re saying attentively. Build trust in them. Talk with them. If they’re disappointed with the results, support them emotionally. Create awareness about mental health. Teach them how to cope with stress before and after exams.
Alternative Paths:
Life is not an exam – it’s a journey of opportunities. A result might not meet your expectations – but life keeps moving. Every problem has a solution. Therefore… vote for patience, not defeat. Let us bring change for the sake of life. There must be special support systems for failed students. Our education system should develop emotional resilience. Emphasize games, yoga, mindfulness, and arts. Spread the idea that a healthy effort is more valuable than success. Every school and junior college must have counseling centers. After results, helpline numbers should be made available. Provide help to students and awareness sessions for parents. Highlight their role. Impose regulations on coaching centers and ban ads that create pressure over results.
Dr. B. Keshavulu, MD Psychiatry
Chairman, Suicide Prevention Committee
Contact: 85010 61659
