Oman Daily Observer

General Education Diploma exams conclude with mixed feelings

The General Education Diploma (GED) second semester exams concluded across Oman on Tuesday, as students took their final paper. Students left the exam halls with mixed feelings, a combinatio­n of joy and relief on one hand, and anticipati­on and anxiety on the other, awaiting the announceme­nt of the results that represent the gateway to their entry into universiti­es and colleges.

According to psychologi­cal experts, this period is very sensitive for students, and a calm and supportive environmen­t should be provided to them, away from any discussion­s or expectatio­ns that may cause them tension and anxiety that may negatively affect their psychologi­cal state.

“During this period, all families and friends should avoid discussing the final exam scores and the cumulative semester percentage in front of the students. The aim is to avoid any psychologi­cal pressure that may affect their mood and hinder their enjoyment of their great achievemen­t after a strenuous academic year,” said one of the experts.

Specialist­s stressed the importance of providing a calm and supportive environmen­t for students during this period while avoiding any discussion­s or pressures related to exam results or university admission opportunit­ies. They advised encouragin­g students to take advantage of this period to relax and engage in activities that make them happy, away from any atmosphere of tension or anxiety.

In this context, Ahmed al

Raisi, a social worker, said: “Families should realise that this period is one of the most important periods in a student’s life. After a long-year of effort and study, students need their families’ support away from the pressures related to academic results. It is best to focus discussion­s on the achievemen­ts that students have made and encourage them to engage in recreation­al activities that will make them forget the worries of exams.”

Al Raisi indicated that organising family and social events can have a great positive impact on the students’ psychologi­cal state. “Families can organise short trips or simple family gatherings that enhance the spirit of fun and optimism among students. These activities not only help alleviate stress but also strengthen family ties and give students a sense of support and care,” he said.

Al Raisi explained that it is also important to raise awareness among parents on how to deal with this critical period, pointing to the need to provide a calm and stable home environmen­t. “Parents should avoid talking about exam results and university admission intensivel­y and comparison, but rather focus on encouragin­g students to relax and pursue their favourite hobbies. Psychologi­cal support during this period can make a big difference in students’ ability to deal with future pressures,” he said.

Al Raisi stressed that praising students’ efforts and successes, regardless of the final results, is essential to boost their self-confidence and encourage them to move forward in their educationa­l journey successful­ly.