DU colleges conduct practical exams amid pandemic, students distraught
Delhi University (DU) recently announced the cancellation of online classes and postponement of examinations. But, students of some institutions have claimed their colleges conducted practical exams online, paying no heed to the physical and mental health of youngsters and their families.
“I was tending to my parents, who both had Covid-19, when I got to know I had to appear for exams… I wasn’t in the right frame of mind, but what could I have done,” says a Daulat Ram College student, on the condition of anonymity.
“When teachers are turning a deaf ear, who do we go to?” rues a Shri Ram College of Commerce student, adding, “My whole family is Covid positive... Shall I save the lives of my family members or give practical exams?”
A number of students, too, contracted the virus, and hence, requested for exams to be postponed, but to no avail. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya College authorities have sought proof from those who tested Covid-19 positive. But this, students say, isn’t possible right now, since test results are delayed at most Delhi-NCR labs. “There’s lack of trust from the authorities. This led to the stress of having to appear for practical exams, even at such a gruelling time,” says a student from the college.
When contacted, the college authorities didn’t respond to our query. But, professor DS Rawat, dean (Examinations) at DU, told us that every college has the right to postpone practicals: “If 70% of students in a college say they’re unable to give practical exams, the principal has the right to postpone them… Students are welcome to raise their concerns; we are here to help,” he adds.