Cameras to watch students writing distance education exams

Bangalore University will install closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in examination halls to prevent malpractice.

The system will be in place for the first time for the
supplementary examinations of the correspondence
courses.

“CCTVs have to be installed this time for the exams. This is the first time they are being installed for the exams of correspondence courses,” said BR Niranjan, director, directorate of correspondence courses and distance education (DCC& DE).

Besides cameras, invigilators from the university and college will maintain a strict vigil.

“Exams need to be streamlined as there is too much copying, which needs to be curbed,” he said.

“Even earlier, there had been instances of copying and exams had to be cancelled. Although more observers have been sent to tackle the issue, this time it was decided to take these additional measures,” he said.

The supplementary exams are scheduled to begin on March 19 and will go on until April 11. At least 3,500 candidates will be taking the exams, which will be held at Austin College in Chamrajpet and Padma College in Basaweshwarnagar.

In August-September 2011, distance education exams were cancelled due to mass copying in Bellary, Davengere, Koppal and one centre in Bangalore. Following this, the director of distance education was assaulted in December. 

For the upcoming annual exams in June and July too, the university is planning to install CCTVs.

“I will discuss with the vice-chancellor about installing CCTVs at the evaluation centres as well,” he added.