Pune: Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) has recently unveiled a forward-thinking initiative to enhance the examination experience for students by increasing the main pages on answer sheets from 24 to 36. The decision, based on a comprehensive scientific study, addresses the need for ample writing space and aims to alleviate any concerns arising from a shortage of supplementary sheets.
The move comes as a response to feedback from students, acknowledging the psychological burden associated with the requirement for additional supplements. A political economics student at SPPU expressed, “Extra supplements also build pressure on the mind about how much is written in the exam.” The university hopes that the increased pages will provide students with sufficient room to answer questions comfortably.
Beyond the student-centric approach, the university is also focused on environmental sustainability. By reducing the overall consumption of answer sheets, estimated at 1 crore, SPPU aims to minimize production costs and contribute to a more eco-friendly examination process. The Board Of Examination and Evaluation emphasizes the importance of responsible paper usage, discouraging practices like drawing extra margins on answer sheets.
This decision also addresses concerns about potential malpractices related to unnumbered sheets, which can lead to fines and inquiries. Additionally, colleges often utilize extra supplements for internal administrative purposes during semester exams. Mahesh Kakade, Director of Board Of Examinations and Evaluation Powers at SPPU, stated, “The new system, featuring a 36-page main answer sheet, has been designed to accommodate both two and three-hour papers effectively, considering students’ writing speed.”
The implementation of this strategic change reflects SPPU’s commitment to fostering a conducive exam environment, reducing stress on students, and promoting sustainable practices within the academic ecosystem.
