Coimbatore: Issue guidelines for exams, say teachers

COIMBATORE: Days after the University Grants Commission (UGC) told the Supreme Court that states cannot override its direction to hold end-semester exams for final year students within September 30, student bodies in the district on Saturday reiterated their demand to cancel final year exams, stating conducting the same amid the pandemic would be a risky affair.
Dhinesh Raja, district secretary, Students Federation of India, said results were crucial for final year students as they had to decide on taking up higher studies or jobs. “Many students are in their hometowns doing part-time jobs. If exams are held during the lockdown, which is extended till this month-end, how would they reach their colleges and exam halls?”
Pointing out that states were presently dealing with different kinds of issues, he said it was unfair for the UGC to ask them to hold exams now. “Kerala, for instance, is dealing with rain and landslide issues. Tamil Nadu is trying to contain the Covid-19 spread. How can states hold end-semester exams amid these issues? If final year exams must be held, they could be allowed conduct the same after the pandemic subsides.”