Hundreds of undergraduate students in Ludhiana were thrown into disarray on Monday when Panjab University abruptly postponed a crucial English examination scheduled for December 30, with the notification arriving a mere hour before the test was to begin.
Sudden Notification Causes Widespread Confusion
The English Language Skills Listening and Speaking (AEC) paper for first-semester students of BCom, BBA, and BSc courses was unexpectedly shifted to the morning of January 3. The decision, announced by the university's controller of examinations, cited vague "administrative reasons". This last-minute change forced many students who had already traveled to their designated test centers to turn back and return home.
Interestingly, the postponement did not affect all students. Those enrolled in the BA program's morning session sat for their exam as originally planned, adding to the confusion surrounding the university's decision-making process.
Students Bear the Brunt of Scheduling Chaos
The abrupt rescheduling had a significant impact, particularly on students commuting from the city's outskirts. A BCom student shared their frustration, stating, "I only saw the notification after I had already reached the exam center. I had to go straight back home. This has completely disrupted my preparation schedule for other subjects and my family plans, as we were hoping to be done by January 2."
The delay has also heightened anxiety among the examinees. A BBA student expressed concern, saying, "My confidence has taken a hit. Now I'm worried the paper might have tougher questions. I feel compelled to prepare even harder during these extra days." The notification came amid a year marked by repeated scheduling upheavals for both undergraduate and postgraduate exams at Panjab University.
Lack of Clarity from University Authorities
Adding to the frustration was the lack of a detailed explanation from the university. Even exam superintendents at the affiliated colleges confirmed they received no specific reasons for the postponement, only the directive to reschedule the paper. Despite the widespread inconvenience and confusion, students and college administrations are now preparing for the exam to be held on Saturday, January 3, at 9:30 am.
This incident has highlighted ongoing issues with exam scheduling and communication at the university, leaving students to navigate the uncertainty and stress caused by such last-minute changes.
