Tamil Nadu: Colleges, varsities gear up for final year/sem exams

Tamil Nadu: Colleges, varsities gear up for final year/sem exams

TNN | Sep 4, 2020, 07.48 AM IST

MADURAI: Many top colleges and universities are preparing to conduct semester exams for final year students following the state government’s announcement that they will happen after September 15. Plans are on to hold the exams offline with Covid-19 safety protocols as there is a feeling that there is no need for further delay as public transport also resumes on September 7.

“We are not really prepared to hold it for online mode this time as there are connectivity issues especially in rural areas. Possibility of malpractices is also a concern. However, offline mode of examination could be held easily with proper planning as there are only five papers,” said Dr K Pitchumani, vice-chancellor, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University (MSU). Heads of colleges and universities felt that with all public transport resuming and JEE Mains and NEET being conducted, it should not be much of an issue to hold the exams for final year students.

“Offline is the best way to hold the exams as it would ensure no student misses out. Logistics too should not be an issue after September 15,” said N Rajendran, VC of Alagappa University, Karaikudi. Madurai Kamaraj University VC Dr M Krishnan too said that discussions have been held with college principals and all are ready to conduct the exams following UGC guidelines. “Though we are yet to receive any communication from the state government, as an autonomous college, we have decided to hold the semester exams for final years from September 17 to 30. The same has been communicated to students. The exams will happen in two shifts following all precautions. All students have already paid the fees,” said Dr Davamani M Christober, principal, The American College, Madurai.

Final year students, many of whom are already working or have got admission for higher studies, are also looking to finish the exams soon. “It is a bit tough for us as we have to suddenly write the exams after months of postponement. But there is no point in waiting further. Just clearing it would be enough to ensure I can continue with my job. By now, all are aware of Covid-19 safety rules like hand washing, wearing masks and social distancing. Just like in any public place, it shouldn’t be difficult to follow,” said G Kaviya, a final year BSc IT student.