Semester exams await PU students

Panjab University senate, the highest decisionmaking body in the varsity, has finally given its approval to the introduction of semester system in varsity-affiliated colleges from the 2014-15 academic session for undergraduate courses. The University School of Open Learning (USOL) will also be introducing the system from this session as its request for more time was not entertained.

The senate has also approved 5% fee hike for courses offered on the university campus, except self-financed courses.

Hostel charg es have been raised 10%, as has been the examination fee. Remuneration of those associated with the conduct of exams has also been hiked 10%. The senate amended the decision of the syndicate to increase fee up to 20% in its colleges for traditional courses in Chandig arh and Punjab and decided that fee be increased by 5% only.

It has been decided to form a standing committee to review the fee structure on an annual basis. A final proposal on whether to effect any increase or other changes would be put up at the annual budget meeting of the senate so that the fee could be reviewed every year, before the start of the academic year.

Some members did express resentment over the reported procedural lapse wherein a copy of proposed agenda was not circulated among members. Later, however, consensus was reached and the proposals were cleared.

Vice-chancellor AK Grover said: “Other universities have adopted the semester system. Panjab University cannot remain aloof from such changes. The examination wing will be given more manpower and USOL will also be extended all possible help.”

There was opposition to the proposal for 10% fee hike in hostel charges on campus and was cleared after being put to vote. There was not much opposition to the increase in examination fee and 5% fee hike for campus students studying in traditional courses.

In the case of up to 20% fee hike proposed in aided courses (BA, Bcom, MA etc) in af filiated colle g es in Punjab and Chandigarh, the senate saw acrimonious debate. Later, it was resolved that a 5% fee hike be effected with a direction to colleges to ensure that students from the economically weaker sections are not affected.

MOVE TO CGPA SYSTEM POSSIBLE

At a later stage, the university could adopt the Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) methodology to evaluate underg raduate students under the semester system. If adopted, it would help in lowering the number of students who seek re-evaluation.