Shimla, Aug – Ritanjali Hastir
In times when the entire world is grappling with the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, many consider Himachal Pradesh University to be insensitive as it has announced the dates for several exams of 6th semester students and Re-appear students from 17th August, 2020. The propensity with which the university wants to conduct these exams raises serious question.
Himachal Pradesh University allegedly known for its lethargy in solving student issues regarding results and approach to solving discrepancies during normal times has dramatically become so keen to conduct these exams on time during Corona outbreak and this has flummoxed everyone immensely.
Himachal comprises primarily of rural population which is devoid of proper transportation facilities due to pandemic times. Also, many areas of the state which are presently under the Corona menace will result in further spurt in COVID-19 cases due to the movement of asymptomatic students and their wards due to examinations
The students are vociferously demanding to consider the aspect of risk involved in conducting these exams in August despite all safety measures and SOPs. Mass gatherings at entrances of colleges, at seating plan displays and at sanitation spots cannot be avoided due to time constraints. Many advocate online examinations too in place of tradition ones, if it is so important to conduct exams this time.
Speaking about the issue, Dr. J. S Negi, Controller of Examination said, “We have never asked any student to appear in their particular college but which so ever is nearest to their place. More than 137 colleges will be holding exams and we have kept SOPs in consideration. Through newspaper and other medium, instructions have already been delivered to students and colleges. There is a possibility that few students might not be able to appear for examination but they will be given another chance as we too understand the situation at hand.”
“Future is uncertain there is no guarantee that in coming months situation will get better, while still situation is under control we are trying to do our best and ease students’ burden. Online teaching success is known to us all, along with its limitations and one cannot ignore the fact that many are left out due to various reasons like connectivity, facility or other such things. We cannot snatch the fair right to compete from any student and for their comfort, we have given them chance to give exam in nearest center”, he added.
