‘One nation, one exam’ requires proper framework

‘One nation, one exam’ requires proper framework

Restrictions caused due to exam course and language barriers need to be ironed out before rolling out centralised UG-PG entrance exam policy

Astha.Hemant@timesgroup.com

01.11.2021

The concept of ‘One nation, one exam’ signifies that the National Testing Agency (NTA) will administer the Central Universities Common Entrance Test (CUCET), which will be the sole criteria for admission to various undergraduate (UG), postgraduate (PG) and other courses to the 43 centralised government universities across the nation. While universities call it a muchawaited change, they voice certain reservations.

Already onboard

JN Baliya, head of department, Education Studies and Mass Communication & New Media, Central University of Jammu (CUJ), says, “Our university was formed in 2011, and we have been holding a common entrance test since then. Although initially, only a few universities took on CUCET, this academic year, total 12 universities have taken on the ‘one nation, one exam’ pattern.” Baliya tells that last year, the CUCET had been held in a computerbased testing (CBT) format. As a result, CUJ has students from across 19 Indian states. “Once all central universities start taking admissions based on CET, J&K youth will be able to apply and study wherever they desire,” he adds.

Vikas Gupta, registrar, University of Delhi (DU), says, “With the ongoing pattern of soaring board exam marks, finding a way to regularise the evaluation pattern across education boards seems to be a difficult task. A common entrance test will eliminate the need for merit-based admissions and will put all students at a common platform.”

BJ Rao, vice-chancellor, University of Hyderabad (UoH), says, “As per National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, students can transfer to any university/course of their choice during their UG programme. For this, all universities must be on the same page in terms of the academic calendar they follow. With the CUCET, this will become a possibility.”

Changes needed

A solution is required for aspirants from regional language schools, adds Rao. “Technology is an apt tool to assist candidates in attempting the exam with minimal financial or location disability. However, the governing body needs to share a solution for students who have done their schooling in any regional language,” he tells.

Baliya says that MCQ format paper does not check an aspirant’s keenness to get into any programme. “Besides the entrance test, a second level of check, in the form of a virtual interview, can be added.”