Home / Education / Exam Panic? Ex-CEO Says Boards Aren't Destiny
Exam Panic? Ex-CEO Says Boards Aren't Destiny
15 Feb
Summary
- Board exam results do not determine a person's entire destiny.
- Ex-CEO Vineet Nayar recalled walking out of his chemistry exam.
- Students are advised to study hard but not fear exams.
Vineet Nayar, the former CEO of HCL Technologies, has ignited online discussion by stating that board exam results are not indicative of future success. He humorously noted that many CEOs might not hold their positions if such exams determined life outcomes. Nayar clarified that his message is not to downplay academic effort but to stress that exams are a single phase, not a final verdict on one's potential.
Recounting his own 1979 experience as a CBSE student, Nayar revealed he walked out of his chemistry exam in a state of panic. A pivotal question from a cousin—'Will you die if you fail?'—helped him reframe his perspective, leading him to perform well in a subsequent math exam. He now encourages students to "starve the board exam bully" by managing their fear, studying hard, and accepting results with the understanding that life offers more than a single academic hurdle.
Nayar's message, widely shared on platforms like LinkedIn and X, has garnered praise from many online users. Some commenters echoed his sentiment, suggesting that the syllabus is often overemphasized and that crucial life skills like resourcefulness and communication are not assessed in traditional exams. The CBSE Board Exams for Classes 10 and 12 are scheduled to commence on February 17, 2026.
