Students pursuing journalism and mass communication at Panjab University's School of Communication Studies find their academic and professional futures in limbo, as they have been waiting for their final examination results for nearly six months. This significant delay has sparked serious questions about administrative accountability and is directly hampering the career progression of affected scholars.
Widespread Academic Paralysis Across Programs
The delay is not confined to a single course but has impacted multiple programs run by the department. The final examination for the MA in Journalism and Mass Communication was conducted on June 10, yet the outcomes remain undeclared. Compounding the problem, even the internal assessment marks, typically available on the department's portal, have not been uploaded. This batch comprises approximately 20 students.
A parallel situation exists for diploma candidates. Students enrolled in the Post Graduate Diploma in Advertising and Public Relations, who completed their final exams on May 23, are also stranded without their results, months after fulfilling all academic obligations.
Students' Careers and Futures Left in Peril
The prolonged uncertainty has placed students in a vulnerable and frustrating position. "We have done everything required of us—exams, assignments, everything. Yet, we have no tangible proof of our completion," shared an MA Mass Communication student. The absence of official results or even internal marks creates a major hurdle for applying to jobs, research fellowships, or further educational courses, as all require documented proof of qualifications.
Administrative Responses and Accountability
When approached for comment, the department's chairperson, Professor Archana, stated she assumed her role only two months ago. She clarified that she has addressed all pending work from her tenure but cannot speak on delays that occurred prior to her joining.
In a significant acknowledgment, university authorities have termed the delay unacceptable. Vice-Chancellor Professor Renu Vig emphasized that departments are mandated to declare results within a stipulated period. "As per university norms, results should be declared within two to three weeks," she stated, highlighting the stark contrast between policy and the current reality faced by the communication studies students.
The ongoing situation at Panjab University underscores a critical gap in academic process management, with real consequences for students poised to enter the professional world.
