Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel has proposed a novel approach to tackle the persistent issue of cheating in university examinations: direct communication with the parents of the students involved. The governor made these remarks while chairing a crucial review meeting with the authorities of the APJ Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU) in Lucknow on Friday.
Addressing the Root Cause Through Dialogue
Governor Patel emphasised that universities should not merely punish students caught using unfair means but should initiate discussions with their families. She believes that understanding the underlying reasons why a student resorts to cheating is vital for effective course correction. "Communication is an effective way for course correction," Patel stated, advocating for a more rehabilitative and supportive approach.
During the meeting, which focused on the university's digital examination ecosystem, the governor meticulously reviewed the entire examination process. Her enquiries covered the timely preparation of question papers, scheduling of exams, deployment of invigilators, the evaluation process, and the prompt declaration of results.
Learning from Gujarat's Experience
Drawing from her extensive administrative experience as the former Chief Minister of Gujarat, Anandiben Patel shared poignant anecdotes. She recounted instances where students, overwhelmed by poor academic performance, had contemplated extreme steps like suicide. Her proactive engagement with students and their parents in Gujarat revealed shocking cases where answer sheets were left completely blank.
These experiences shaped her conviction that parents must be more aware and involved in their children's academic journey. She advised parents to maintain a consistent connection with teachers and to provide constant academic encouragement to their children. Furthermore, she stressed that subjects and skill development should be aligned with the child's genuine interests, not external pressures.
Clarity in Evaluation and Parental Awareness
Governor Patel also highlighted a critical aspect of the evaluation process. She insisted that examiners should clearly mark mistakes on answer sheets. This practice, she argued, helps students precisely understand their shortcomings and learn from them, rather than just receiving a final score.
The governor's directive underscores a shift towards a more holistic and compassionate educational framework. It moves beyond punitive measures to address the psychological and environmental factors that push students towards malpractice. By involving parents as partners, universities can create a stronger support system to guide students towards integrity and success.
