Balasore: Fakir Mohan University Friday conceded the students’ demand to hold online examinations given the difficulties ensued by the Covid pandemic. This followed protests by the students, Friday.
Buckling under pressure, the university authorities announced that the Plus-III third semester examinations in all affiliated colleges will be conducted online. The decision was announced by FM University Vice-Chancellor Dr Santosh Tripathy Friday.
It may be noted here that the university authorities had issued a notification August 7, stating that the third semester examinations will be conducted offline August 23.
The notification had infuriated the students of the colleges affiliated to the university. They pointed out that Covid situation in Balasore and Bhadrak districts has not become normal while bus services are not available in some areas.
It will create problems in communication during examinations, the agitating students argued.
Students from 92 affiliated colleges staged a sit-in in front of the Fakir Mohan University gate, demanding to conduct Plus III third semester examinations through online mode.
The students alleged that transport facilities are yet to resume and Covid-19 cases are still being detected in the district.
Students said, “Offline mode is not a feasible arrangement when Covid situation has not relented fully. If exams are held offline, students will face a lot of problems.”
Students of 92 colleges had sent a memorandum August 9 to the Collector, the secretary of the higher education department and the higher education minister, seeking online examination.
Emerging during the protests, the VC reached out to the students and announced the decision.
PNN
