OMR to Replace CBT in CUET: UGC Chief Addresses Concerns, Proposes Changes
Last update: Nov 20, 2024
In a momentous milestone, Jagdish Kumar, Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC), has declared that the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) will be significantly changed this year. Kumar addressed concerns voiced by candidates about the previous edition of CUET, stating that the forthcoming exam will replace Computer-Based Testing (CBT) with an Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) format. This decision intends to reduce challenges for candidates and provide a more efficient assessment procedure.
Speaking to reporters at a national conference on New Education Policy held at IIM Jammu, Kumar emphasized the need of resolving issues raised by students at the previous CUET. He emphasized that the move from CBT to OMR will enable a hybrid examination format, with schools and institutions serving as examination centers. This measure aims to improve applicants' access to examination centers, addressing concerns highlighted by candidates, particularly those living in outlying locations.
Last year, some students struggled due to a dearth of CUET exam centers in Jammu & Kashmir. In response, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha raised the issue with Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, emphasizing the inconvenience caused to candidates assigned centers more than 300 kilometers distant from their homes. The decision to offer OMR format and hybrid mode for CUET intends to ease such logistical issues and make the test more accessible to all candidates.
Chairman Kumar emphasized CUET's transformative impact on the university admissions process. He stated that prior to CUET, admissions were mostly focused on board scores, which frequently caused students to experience significant levels of stress. Kumar claimed that the implementation of CUET reduced stress levels dramatically, giving all students a level playing field in the admissions process. He also applauded CUET for promoting national integration by offering equal opportunities to students from various backgrounds.
Also Read: CUET 2024: Exam date, Syllabus, Application Form, and Eligibility
In addition to revisions to the exam format, Kumar called for the introduction of ombudsmen and grievance redressal committees in universities and colleges. These tools attempt to immediately address students' issues and frustrations, thereby providing a positive learning environment. Kumar hopes to create a more transparent and responsible higher education system that prioritizes student welfare and empowerment by putting these concepts into practice.
The decision to replace CBT with OMR in CUET represents the UGC's concerted attempt to improve the efficiency and accessibility of the examination process. As preparations for the 2018 CUET accelerate, stakeholders anticipate a more seamless and inclusive test experience for candidates across the country.
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