In a significant move aimed at enhancing academic standards, Calcutta University (CU) is set to increase teaching hours across its affiliated colleges starting in the new year. The university's highest decision-making body, the Syndicate, unanimously approved a restructuring of the semester examination system during its meeting on Wednesday.
Syndicate's Unanimous Decision for Academic Improvement
The proposal to reform the exam structure was initially raised in a previous Syndicate meeting with the clear objective of improving educational standards at both the university and its affiliated institutes. Before making a final decision, the Syndicate actively sought and considered suggestions from the boards of studies of various faculties. The consensus reached on Wednesday paves the way for systemic changes designed to free up more time for classroom instruction.
A key suggestion that found wide acceptance involves holding examinations for minor and major subjects within a specific, coordinated time frame across all colleges. This streamlined approach is intended to create a more efficient academic calendar. The reforms will commence with minor subject exams, which will be conducted at students' home centres. Under the new plan, the university will take charge of preparing the examination schedule and setting the question papers, while the evaluation of answer scripts will remain the responsibility of college teachers.
Addressing the Core Issue: The Need for More Classroom Time
The driving force behind this overhaul is the pressing need to ensure students receive adequate face-to-face teaching. University officials have emphasized that the current system often falls short, forcing many students to seek private tuition to bridge learning gaps. The new reforms aim to guarantee a minimum of 90 days of classes, as originally stipulated in university guidelines. To implement these changes effectively, CU Vice-Chancellor Asutosh Ghosh stated that the university will shortly convene a meeting with principals of all affiliated colleges for discussions before finalizing the plan.
Lady Brabourne College principal and Syndicate member, Siuli Sarkar, highlighted the importance of the step, stating it addresses a fundamental student grievance. Another member of the Syndicate pointed out that merely holding classes during vacations is not a sustainable solution, as many colleges already resort to this practice. The real answer, they argue, lies in systemic reform of the examination process to allow for more regular physical classes during the standard academic terms.
Challenges and the Path Forward
While the decision marks a positive step, a practical challenge remains. Many colleges operate in three shifts—morning, day, and evening. During exam periods, students from the morning and evening shifts often join the day shift to write their papers, creating logistical complexities. A university official acknowledged this issue, confirming that the administration is actively considering how to develop a uniform examination system that accommodates all shift patterns.
The overarching goal, as articulated by VC Asutosh Ghosh, is to make undergraduate courses more attractive by increasing the quality and quantity of classroom engagement. By systematically reforming the exam schedule, the university hopes to create an environment where students can consistently attend at least 90 days of classes, reducing dependency on external tuition and strengthening the core teaching-learning process.
