The Impact of Pandemic on University Exams: Maharashtra's Decision and Its Implications

The current situation in Maharashtra, a state in India, regarding university exams is causing significant concern. The state's active coronavirus cases account for nearly 40% of the national total, making it one of the worst affected regions. This has raised questions about the need for school and college education, particularly regarding the conduct of final year examinations. In this article, we will explore the challenges faced by students and the rationale behind the Maharashtra government's decision to cancel university exams for the final year students of the 2020 batch.

Corona Scenario in Maharashtra

As of the latest data, Maharashtra has approximately 150,000 active cases of COVID-19, making it a critical region in the nation. Given this condition, conducting final year examinations poses significant risks. Many students, especially those pursuing higher studies in cities such as Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, and Nagpur, have migrated to these areas for quality education. There is a pressing need to balance the safety of these students with the requirement of conducting these important examinations.

Challenges in Conducting Online Exams

Despite the widespread use of online platforms, conducting final year exams for millions of students in Maharashtra is not a feasible option. Here are some of the key challenges:

Internet Connectivity: Not all students, particularly those in rural areas, have reliable internet access. For instance, students from Jammu and Kashmir often rely on 2G internet, making it extremely difficult for them to access online examination platforms. Study Material: Some students had to leave their books, notes, and assignments in their hostels due to initial vacation announcements. They now face difficulties in accessing the necessary study materials without physical access to their school or university. Technological Accessibility: Despite the increasing digitization of education, many students do not have access to personal laptops or desktops. Only a small fraction of the 25% of students in my class own a laptop, and most others rely on basic devices or nothing at all.

Given these challenges, it is understandable why the government is considering alternative solutions, such as delaying the exams, rather than risking the health and safety of students.

Consequences of Delaying Exams

Delaying the exams has far-reaching implications, both for students and institutions:

Higher Education: Many students have already applied for higher studies abroad. These students need official transcripts from their colleges to prove their graduation status. Delaying the exams means many students may lose their admission opportunities. Employment: Students who have secured jobs with prestigious companies require provisional degree certificates to be onboarded. Without these certificates, companies cannot officially employ them. This highlights the immediate and critical nature of these exams for students' careers. Academic Aspirations: Students admitted to prestigious institutions like the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) will face the daunting task of handling both undergraduate and postgraduate exams simultaneously. Many educational institutions are planning to start their academic terms in August, putting additional pressure on students.

Mental Health and Trauma

In addition to the logistical challenges, the pandemic has taken a toll on the mental health of students. The uncertainty, stress, and trauma caused by the pandemic can have long-lasting effects on their well-being. As students are not part of any significant political or social vote bank, their voices and concerns often go unheard. However, this does not mean that the government is against university exams or that education is considered unnecessary.

Instead, Maharashtra's government is taking a pragmatic approach to ensure the safety and well-being of students while meeting the essential requirements of education and academic progress.

Key Takeaways:

The pandemic poses significant challenges for conducting university exams, particularly in states like Maharashtra. Internet connectivity, study material accessibility, and technological infrastructure are key hurdles in online exam conduct. Delaying exams has severe consequences for students seeking higher education, employment, and pursuing academic aspirations. Mental health and well-being are crucial considerations in the current pandemic scenario.

Conclusion:

While the decision to cancel university exams for the final year students of the 2020 batch in Maharashtra may appear controversial, it is rooted in a need to prioritize student safety and address the broader implications of the pandemic. It is crucial to continue supporting students as they navigate these challenging times to ensure they can achieve their academic and professional goals.