Dhaka: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday defended the holding of Primary Education Completion (PEC) and Junior School Certificate (JSC) examinations, saying that such examinations help boost the self-confidence of children.

‘I know that many (people) speak against the PEC and JSC and equivalent examinations, and many have objections that why such exams are being held, reports the UNB.

But, I think that these examinations help grow the self-confidence among the children,’ she said.

The premier added: ‘The children are also getting certificates after completing such exams, which help them to be more attentive to study’.

The prime minister said this while formally receiving the results of Junior School Certificate (JSC), Junior Dakhil Certificate (JDC) and Primary Education Completion (PEC) and its equivalent Ebtedayee examinations.

Sheikh Hasina said everybody does not pursue higher education, while many have talents to demonstrate their skills like receiving technical education or vocational training.

‘For flourishing these merits, such examinations are very much necessary…keeping this in mind, we’re giving importance to technical education and vocational training,’ she said.

Education Minister Nurul Islam Nahid handed over the JSC and Junior Dakhil Certificate (JDC) exam results to the prime minister while Primary and Mass Education Minister Md Mustafizur Rahman handed over the PEC and Ebtedayee exam results to her at a simple ceremony held at the PM’s official Ganobhaban residence here this morning.