Vadodara Board Exams Begin: QR Codes, Security Measures for 72,000 Students
Vadodara Board Exams: QR Codes, Security for 72K Students

Vadodara Board Exams Commence with Innovative QR Code System and Enhanced Security

The Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSHSEB) has launched the Class 10 and Class 12 examinations across Vadodara city and district, with a total of 267 centers operational from Thursday. This significant academic event sees over 72,000 students participating, comprising approximately 44,600 Class 10 examinees and nearly 28,000 Class 12 candidates.

Groundbreaking QR Code Initiative for Easy Navigation

In a pioneering move for Vadodara, the education board has introduced a QR code system to assist students and parents in locating examination centers efficiently. By scanning the QR code, individuals can access direct Google Maps links to the exact school gates where exams are scheduled. District Education Officer Mahesh Pandey emphasized that this initiative aims to eliminate confusion and delays, ensuring a smooth arrival process.

"This convenient and time-saving measure allows vehicles to navigate directly to the examination venue without any panic," Pandey stated. The QR code links have been disseminated to schools, parents, and students, marking a digital leap in exam logistics.

Comprehensive Security and Organizational Measures

To facilitate the exams' smooth conduct, Vadodara has been segmented into four zones for Class 10 and two zones for Class 12. All centers are equipped with CCTV surveillance, adequate ventilation, and sanitization protocols as per board guidelines. Additionally, the city police commissioner has issued a notification imposing strict restrictions from 8 am to 8:30 pm on exam days to maintain a fair and peaceful environment.

The order prohibits candidates and visitors from carrying mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices, walkie-talkies, cameras, or any electronic gadgets into examination centers. Unauthorized entry is barred, and gatherings of four or more persons within a 100-meter radius of centers are banned during exam hours.

Additional Restrictions to Ensure Order

Further measures include the closure of Xerox, photocopying, and printing shops within the 100-meter radius, along with a ban on loudspeaker use nearby. Excavation work near centers has been restricted to prevent power disruptions. Police officials stated that these steps are designed to prevent malpractice and uphold law and order, with violators facing action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (2023). However, board-authorized officials on exam duty are permitted to use mobile phones for official purposes.

Political Appeal for Infrastructure Improvements

Separately, Congress leaders have submitted a memorandum to the city municipal commissioner, urging immediate repairs of potholed roads to ensure students can reach examination centers punctually. This highlights broader concerns about infrastructure impacting academic schedules.

The combined efforts of technological innovation, stringent security, and organizational planning underscore Vadodara's commitment to conducting these crucial board examinations seamlessly for thousands of students.