Dear friends,

We understand that Cambridge has decided to discontinue the International GCSE Sanskrit examination taken every June. They say that the last exam will be in June 2027. We believe this decision is a mistake and that it is vitally important to preserve the study and examination of Sanskrit in schools. By signing this petition, you could make an impact, helping sustain Sanskrit in the UK and globally, so more people, especially aged up to 16 years, are equipped to study and share the knowledge of the Sanskrit language.

Sanskrit is a foundational language, serving as the root of many modern languages. It is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, preserving ancient texts in science, medicine (Ayurveda), philosophy, and literature, including epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana.  Sanskrit is more than a language; it is a gateway to understanding some of the world’s most profound wisdom. With society's growing interest in Yoga, spirituality, and Ayurveda, the study of Sanskrit remains vital worldwide.

As a signer of this petition, why should you care?  
The Sanskrit IGCSE provides a structured way for anyone, not just teenagers, to embark on their Sanskrit journey and be recognised for their achievement. Students are not just limited to those in the UK, but also abroad including students in Nepal. Losing this examination now will make it significantly harder to revive structured Sanskrit education in the future.

 
How will this impact society?  

Discontinuing the Sanskrit IGCSE means losing a vital bridge to ancient knowledge that is more relevant than ever. Sanskrit texts offer timeless lessons on mental health, yoga, ethics, and purpose, topics we value in today’s society. The study of Sanskrit sharpens analytical and linguistic skills, benefiting learners of all ages, while promoting cultural understanding. Without this structured pathway, fewer people will have access to the profound insights and practical applications of Sanskrit, diminishing its contribution to global education and well-being. 

Most importantly for Cambridge International, why should you care? Cambridge International’s mission to promote diverse and inclusive education is undermined by the decision to cancel the Sanskrit IGCSE. The IGCSE in Sanskrit is the only structured pathway for learners of all ages to engage with this language, which is foundational to Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and scientific and linguistic study. Removing this exam signals that Cambridge International does not sufficiently value such diversity, effectively letting Sanskrit decline and its profound legacy be forgotten.