At least 20 students died by suicide across Bangladesh following the publication of the SSC and HSC examination results this year , including nine within just 10 days of the HSC results, highlighting growing concerns over students’ academic pressure and mental health, according to Aachol Foundation.
The foundation identified the incidents based on information published in various media outlets and compiled from available reports.
Preliminary media reports and information from families and local sources indicate that examination failures, disappointment over results, family expectations, social pressure and result-related frustration were among the factors associated with the incidents, it said.
Of the nine students reported to have died by suicide following the HSC results, five were female and four were male.
Khulna Division recorded the highest number of incidents, with five cases reported in Satkhira, Magura, Jashore and Bagerhat districts.
One incident each was recorded in Lakshmipur under Chattogram Division, Thakurgaon under Rangpur Division, Gazipur under Dhaka Division and Bogura under Rajshahi Division.
Earlier, 11 students died by suicide following the publication of the 2026 SSC and equivalent examination results.
The foundation said the incidents highlight the excessive emphasis on examination results in the country's education system, students' lack of preparation to cope with academic setbacks and shortcomings in safeguarding their mental health.
Aachol Foundation observed that students may experience heightened psychological pressure around the publication of examination results.
It stressed that attention should extend beyond result announcements and admission to the next academic level to include students' mental well-being.
The foundation called on families, teachers and classmates to show empathy towards students who fail or do not achieve their expected results, avoiding humiliation, criticism, comparisons and excessive pressure.
It also stressed the need to pay attention to signs of distress, social withdrawal, excessive guilt or behavioural changes among students after results are published and to ensure timely support, including professional mental health assistance where necessary.
In its recommendations, the foundation urged educational institutions to ensure mental health support and counselling services for students before and after examination results are announced.
It also called for awareness programmes involving students, parents and teachers to help them understand that failing an examination does not mean failure in life.
Other recommendations include introducing institution-based support programmes to monitor students' mental well-being after results, expanding accessible, confidential and free mental health counselling and emergency support services, and organising regular awareness activities on emotional management, coping with disappointment, problem-solving and seeking help.
The foundation further recommended coordinated initiatives involving educational institutions, families, healthcare providers and relevant government agencies to ensure that students in distress receive timely assistance.