Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)

Mangaluru, Aug 25: Because of the repeated postponements of the degree examinations of Mangalore University, the students are finding it hard to choose their postgraduate (PG) courses.

The private universities and autonomous colleges have conducted examinations in March and complied with other processes and formalities. But the students of colleges, both private and government, which fall under Mangalore University, are disappointed as they have not been able to complete their examinations.

In most of the colleges, final semester degree classes have not yet been concluded. A few colleges have finished classes while some others have shifted the onus of learning to their students. It is said that the examinations will be delayed further if they are to be held after completing classes.

In the meanwhile, some prestigious institutions have admitted students for postgraduate courses through entrance examinations even before the students completed their degree courses. Those who plan to study postgraduate courses in other universities are facing problems because of the fact that examinations have not been conducted.

A girl student from the city said she has got admission into the MSc course at Guwahati IIT in Assam where online classes are currently held. "By September end, mid semester examinations will be conducted. “But in the college where I study, even BSc final semester examinations have not been held. I believe that examinations should be held at least for those students who have got admission in institutions elsewhere," she opined. She points out that in case of sportspersons sometimes such measures are undertaken.

The university at the same time is in an unenviable situation as it has been repeatedly asked to postpone examinations. Students too are frustrated. The students who have got admission elsewhere are in a dilemma about their uncertain future.

Mangalore University has made preparations for holding online examinations. But some students have said that they find it difficult even to join online classes because of the problem with the internet. The university therefore is hesitant as it feels that such students will face problems if online examinations are held.

Currently, first, third and fifth semester examinations are in progress in the university. They will conclude by September 7. Sixth semester examinations cannot be held immediately as teaching is still in progress in several colleges. Exams cannot be conducted without completing the syllabus.

The syndicate of Mangalore University will meet on August 27 and the university administration has decided to move ahead after seeking suggestions of the syndicate members.

Under Mangalore University, 153 colleges affiliated to the university and 36 government colleges operate. There are five autonomous colleges, which have conducted degree examinations. Therefore, students of these colleges are able to select their future courses. As examinations have been completed by most of the private universities too, their students are at an advantageous situation.

Mangalore University vice chancellor, Prof P S Yadapadithaya, says that the sixth semester examination of degree courses and fourth semester for postgraduate courses have to be completed without delay. He feels that holding online examinations appears to be a better option. However, he added that a final decision will be taken at the university syndicate meeting.