This archive report was first published on 4 October 2019.
As students prepare for their national exams, a recent study has sparked debate about the potential impact of air pollution on their grades. According to The Times, research suggests that inhaling polluted air on exam day could lower a student's grades by up to 3.4 percent.
While this finding may seem alarming, experts argue that it is not a mitigating circumstance for poor performance. 'If students had all the required resources and materials to acquire the knowledge, but chose not to apply it in the exam, then no amount of polluted air can excuse those circumstances,' says Gladys Burini, author of the article.
However, Burini also acknowledges that cleaner air is essential for students' health and well-being. 'It would not be ideal to have a runny nose, a congested chest, and a fuzzy brain sitting a national exam,' she says.
As the national exams start this month, candidates are advised to take precautions to minimize their exposure to polluted air. 'If you can help it, use less polluted routes on your way to school, and consider wearing a mask,' Burini suggests.
