Pic: Spoorthi Ullal
Media Release
Mangaluru, Apr 20: Dr M Mohan Alva, president of Karnataka Unaided Pre-University College Management Association (KUMPA) along with Prof Narendra L Nayak, secretary of KUMPA highlighted the abnormalities which occurred during recent CET exams.
Addressing media on Saturday April 20, Dr M Mohan Alva said, “The Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) has faced significant criticism for how the CET 2024 entrance test has been conducted. This test, essential for admission to engineering and other professional courses, is taken annually by approximately 3 lac students across the state. Historically managed smoothly by the department of pre-graduate education and KEA, this year's CET exam has unfortunately become a source of confusion and anxiety for students, parents, and educators alike.
“For the first time since the inception of CET in 1984, the exam included a surprising number of out-of-syllabus questions. Specifically, about 45 questions across the four subjects— physics, chemistry, mathematics, and biology (PCMB)—were not related to the current syllabus. This discrepancy is notable as the CET exam topics are supposed to align with those prescribed for the first and second PUC divisions, as clearly stated on page 29 of the CET manual released by the KEA.
“The issue began on the first day of exams, when students encountered questions outside the prescribed syllabus, leading to widespread uncertainty. This left many wondering whether they should focus solely on the syllabus or if additional reading was required, especially when preparing for the subsequent physics and chemistry exams. The primary concern now is determining who is responsible for this oversight and who will be accountable.
“The KEA must urgently clarify the situation regarding the inclusion of extra-textual questions in this year's CET exam. It is their responsibility, as well as that of the government, to address these discrepancies promptly. The PU board has already published the revised syllabus on their website, which indicates that KEA may have either used outdated question papers or overlooked the fact that significant portions of the syllabus had been removed from both the first and second PUC. Immediate action and clear communication are essential to rectify this situation and prevent further distress among the student community and their families.
“We, the representatives of the Kupma State Committee, are writing to express our deep concerns and seek immediate intervention regarding the numerous issues that marred the CET 2024 examination. Our intent is not to confront but to constructively engage with the KEA in finding a resolution that safeguards the interests and future of our students,” he said.
Prof Narendra L Nayak said, “It is unprecedented and highly distressing that this year's CET included approximately 45 out-of-syllabus questions across the PCMB subjects. Such a significant error not only disrupts the fairness of the examination but also inflicts unnecessary stress on students and undermines the credibility of the exam. We urge KEA to address why these discrepancies occurred and to disclose whether the question papers were adequately reviewed by the team of expert lecturers.
“The allocation of exceedingly distant centers has placed an additional logistical and emotional burden on students. We request an explanation for this decision and urge a re-evaluation of center allocations in future examinations to consider the proximity to students' residences.
“Overlooking the mental well-being of students during such a crucial phase of their academic career is deeply troubling. We seek KEA's commitment to prioritizing student welfare in all its examination processes.
“KEA should consider excluding the out-of-syllabus questions from the grading process. The results should be recalculated based only on the syllabus-aligned questions to ensure fairness in student evaluation.
“Immediate consultation with subject experts to verify and rectify any further errors in the examination process. This action will prevent the recurrence of such issues and uphold the integrity of the examination.
Transparent Communication: We request that KEA provide timely and clear communication regarding the steps taken to address these issues. Transparency is crucial to maintain the confidence of students, parents, and educators.
“We are prepared to support and participate in all government initiatives that aim to enhance the educational prospects of our students. We trust that KEA will take swift and effective action in response to these pressing concerns. Our cooperation is contingent upon implementing valuable and quality education practices that truly reflect the needs and potentials of our students,” he said.
Prof M B Punanik, Yuvaraj Jain, Manjunath Revankar, Dr Sudhakar Shetty and others were present.