KUWAIT CITY, Feb 2: In the first two days of exams for grade 12 Literature and Science sections, more than 5,000 male and female students have been absent, and Ministry of Education is taken aback by the trend after postponing exams for 12,088 students last year, reports Al-Seyassah daily.

In a statement, the Assistant Undersecretary for Public Education Mohammad Al-Kandari said the problem of absenteeism remains a force to be reckoned with, as long as the rule allows students to be absent during exams and they are also given a second chance to write.

He added the ministry endeavors to find alternative solution to the problem with all its negativities, thus medical excuses must be signed by the concerned doctor through the administration of the medical center.
He explained that most students take this option to get more time to study, disregarding the adverse consequences of not having enough time to rest.

He indicated the rule was set for those with compelling social or psychological circumstances that prevent them from reporting on the day of exam.