BU relaxes norms for revaluation of exam papers

In possibly a big relief for students, Bangalore University (BU) has relaxed the norms for revaluation of answerscripts.

At a meeting of the Syndicate, the varsity’s highest decision-making body, on Wednesday, members decided that students can henceforth apply for revaluation even if they have not scored the required 15 per cent of the total marks.

“Even if students get zero marks, they can get the exam paper re-evaluated. It is, however, advisable that they do so only when they are confident that they deserve more marks or that an error has been made,” Vice Chancellor B Thimmegowda said.

R K Somashekhar, Registrar (Evaluation), acknowledged that evaluators, in the past, did commit errors in awarding marks. “As many as 50 faulty evaluations have come to our notice. Right now, we are collecting the required information. As per the exam ordinance, such valuators can either be fined or barred from any evaluation work for three years,” he explained.

The university authorities also mentioned plans to introduce ‘choice-based credit system’ in postgraduate courses from the next academic year. “BU is probably the only university in the State that has not yet introduced this system. We will  have to do it by next year,” Thimmegowda said.

As part of the reconstruction of undergraduate courses from next year onwards, the VC also talked about introducing skill-based and value-added courses in the curriculum. “A student of the arts stream can opt for a course like computer applications or a science student can study communication, etc,” Thimmegowda said, adding that deans of various faculties, boards of studies and principals would meet soon to decide on the matter.

Safe campus

The Syndicate also approved the policy document on ‘gender sensitisation, prevention and redressal of sexual harassment and gender discrimination’ that lays down measures in the nature of punishment, stages of lodging complaints in cases of such offences, etc.

As per the policy, complaints committees should be formed at the level of affiliated colleges, university and an apex committee, and each would have statuary status. A student found guilty of any such offence is liable to be expelled or suspended.
Officials also face the possibility of suspension and dismissal, loss of increments, promotions being cancelled, if found guilty.

Thimmegowda also highlighted the role of a ‘pro-active cell against sexual harassment/gender inequality’ to create awareness on the issue. Appropriate measures would be introduced at constituent and affiliated colleges, he added.