We are following routine exam calendar, move to help students: VC KU

Srinagar, Dec 19: Amid concerns raised by faculty members of Government Degree Colleges over the scheduling of undergraduate (UG) exams during the winter vacation, Kashmir University (KU) authorities clarified that the decision aligns with their routine academic calendar and is aimed at benefiting students.

College teachers criticized KU for holding 3rd and 5th semester exams in January, coinciding with their vacation period as notified by the Higher Education Department (HED) academic calendar, which designates vacations from December 27 onward. 

Teachers questioned why university staff could enjoy the vacation while college faculty were expected to work, calling it a denial of their rightful break.

KU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan defended the schedule, stating that it ensures timely completion of students' degrees. 

“This is not the first time exams are held in winter. The schedule benefits students by preventing delays in their academic progress,” she said.

KU officials highlighted that the date sheet for these exams was released on October 10, 2024, well before HED announced its academic calendar in December. 

They also noted that the exams are not consuming the entire vacation period, as they will conclude by January 9, 2025.

“The decision was made with students’ interests in mind. No complaints have been received from students, as they prefer completing exams before the colleges reopen post-vacation,” a KU official said.

Furthermore, the university noted that this schedule aligns with the requirements of the first batch under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which began in 2022. 

The exams are crucial for maintaining the stipulated timeline of two and a half years for the 5th semester.

The matter was also discussed with college principals, who reportedly supported the decision. 

However, college teachers remain opposed, viewing the move as undermining their vacation rights. (GK)