Even after the Higher Education Department (HED) issued a stern directive instructing all universities and autonomous colleges across Jammu and Kashmir to refrain from conducting examinations during officially notified vacation periods, several institutions have reportedly gone ahead with their exam schedules sparking resentment and confusion among students.
Students from multiple colleges affalited with Cluster University said that, despite clear orders from the department, they have been asked to appear in exams during the winter break.
“It is frustrating. The HED has issued clear directions, but our college hasn’t changed the date sheet. What’s the point of such circulars if no one follows them?” said a student from Amar Singh college in Srinagar.
The HED circular, earlier issued by Dr. Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Director Colleges J&K, directed all universities, cluster universities and autonomous colleges to strictly adhere to the Uniform Academic Calendar. and ensure that no examinations are held during the vacation period. The order warned that any violation would be viewed seriously.
However, reports suggest that several colleges have either ignored or delayed implementation of the directive, citing “academic pressure” and “tight timelines” as reasons.
Students also allege that the move has left them mentally exhausted, with many forced to study amid freezing conditions and without access to regular transport or heating arrangements.
“Our classes ended late because of earlier disruptions. Now we are being made to sit for exams in December, when hostels are half empty and temperatures have dropped below zero. It’s unfair,” said another student from Srinagar.
Another student said that many of them have winter internships and academic projects scheduled during the vacation and the sudden exam announcement will cause them a lot of inconvenience.
