At least 20 students reportedly committed suicide across the country following the publication of the 2026 Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examination results, raising fresh concerns over academic pressure and students' mental health.
 
According to Aachol Foundation, nine students died by suicide within just 10 days of the publication of the HSC results. Earlier, 11 similar incidents were reported following the announcement of the SSC and equivalent examination results.
 
The foundation identified the incidents based on information published in various media outlets and accounts collected from families and local sources.
 
Of the nine students who died following the HSC results, five were female and four were male.
 
 
According to the district-wise breakdown, five incidents were reported in Satkhira, Magura, Jashore and Bagerhat districts under Khulna Division. One incident each was recorded in Lakshmipur, Thakurgaon, Gazipur and Bogura districts.
 
Preliminary reports and information from families and local sources suggest that examination failure, disappointment over results, family expectations and social pressure were among the factors associated with the incidents.
 
The foundation said the incidents highlighted excessive emphasis on examination results in the country's education system, students' lack of psychological preparedness to cope with failure and shortcomings in mental health support.
 
Aanchal Foundation observed that students often experience heightened psychological pressure during examination result periods. It stressed that educational institutions and families should pay equal attention to students' mental well-being alongside academic results and admission arrangements.
 
The foundation urged parents, teachers and classmates to show empathy towards students who fail or do not achieve their expected results, warning against humiliation, scolding, comparisons and excessive pressure.
 
It also called for immediate attention to signs of frustration, social withdrawal, excessive guilt and behavioural changes among students after results are published.
 
To prevent such incidents, the organisation recommended introducing mental health support and counselling services in educational institutions before and after examination results are announced.
 
It also called for expanding accessible, confidential and free mental health counselling and emergency support services for students.
 
The foundation further recommended awareness programmes for students, parents and teachers to establish that failing an examination should never be considered a failure in life.
 
It stressed the need for coordinated efforts involving educational institutions, families, healthcare facilities and government agencies to identify vulnerable students and ensure timely assistance.
 
The organisation also emphasised helping students develop emotional resilience, cope with frustration, solve problems and seek support when necessary.