Bengaluru: 22,000 students were notably absent from the recent second PUC English examination in Bengaluru.

Officials from the Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) noted a significant number of absentees across various subjects, attributing it to the assurance of two more examination opportunities this year.

English language paper observed the highest absenteeism with 20,736 students missing, followed by 18,231 absences for Kannada and Arabic, and 17,869 for Physics and History exams.

Out of the 8.56 lakh students registered for the exams held from March 1 to 22, the Board implemented three examination systems this year, offering flexibility in subject choices.

A senior official stated, "Considering the additional chances provided, many students opted out of the English exam, particularly those from Kannada medium."

The Board aims to release results by April 10 and schedule the second examination by May 15.