DU, Jamia final-yr students divided on online exams

Final-year undergraduate and postgraduate students of Delhi University (DU) and Jamia Millia Islamia are split over the online exams for their last semesters, with some arguing that the nationwide second wave of Covid-19 has adversely affected their ability to appear for the tests, while others want the evaluation process to be wrapped up soon so that they can start looking for work.

While Jamia’s exams began on June 3, DU exams are due to start on June 7. The varsities are conducting online open-book exams this year as well.

“Many students who faced issues last year have developed alternative methods to appear for the exams this year. Delaying the tests must not be an option because there is the risk of a third wave as well. Final-year students want to get done with this and look for work,” said Laraib Neyazi, a postgraduate student from Jamia Milia.

However, some students said they won’t be able to appear for their papers due to the Aprilmay surge of Covid-19.

“Several students contracted Covid last month and post-covid complications are making it difficult for them to concentrate. Students have lost their family members and none of us have seen death on such a scale,” said Arbab Ali, a final-year student of

History at Jamia.

Jamia media coordinator Ahmad Azeem said students facing issues can write to university administration and that they will “try to help them as far as possible on humanitarian grounds.”

Some students of DU’S School of Open Learning said they had not received messages asking them to collect study material. Though the institute gave students access to digital copies of the material, some said they did not have the devices required to properly use this content.

Anjali, a final-year student of SOL, said she had to borrow her books from her friend. “I come from a modest background. It is not possible for me to buy books and devices to study... Most SOL students come from marginalised groups,” she said

Balaram Pani, chairman of the SOL governing body said, “The pandemic has made it difficult to arrange for the required number of printed copies, but everything for students has been provided online.