Panjab University Faces Ongoing Exam Disruptions Amid NEP Implementation Challenges

Panjab University is experiencing persistent examination irregularities and postponements, primarily attributed to the increased operational complexity caused by the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP). University officials acknowledged that the policy transition, which introduced more papers and revised syllabi, placed immense pressure on the examination system. Students across various programs reported significant issues, including procedural lapses like distributing the wrong exam packets, inadequate invigilation, and scheduling errors leading to missed papers. Furthermore, examiners set questions outside the prescribed syllabus in some courses. These disruptions have delayed assessments, rendered some attempted papers invalid, and directly impacted student progression. The university has announced future measures, such as installing CCTV cameras and refining procedures, to strengthen the conduct of examinations moving forward.

Panjab University, a central university overseeing higher education in Chandigarh and surrounding regions, has encountered several examination irregularities and postponements in recent months, largely linked to the rollout of the National Education Policy.

According to statements from university officials, these disruptions stem from increased operational demands during the transition phase, impacting end-semester examinations across the main campus and affiliated colleges.

Students across multiple undergraduate and postgraduate programs at Panjab University reported several issues during the current academic session, highlighting lapses in examination conduct and administration.

Key examples include:

Procedural lapses:
At one Panjab University examination centre, officials opened and distributed an examination packet meant for the afternoon session in the morning. This error forced the university to postpone the affected paper across multiple locations.

Scheduling errors:
University authorities rescheduled an examination without providing adequate prior notice, causing nearly a dozen candidates at an affiliated college in Chandigarh to miss their exam.

Conduct irregularities:
Students at a regional Panjab University centre reported inadequate invigilation, poor examination hall conditions, and the unauthorized use of electronic devices during a jurisprudence paper held in December.

Syllabus concerns:
Postgraduate mathematics students raised objections after examiners set questions outside the prescribed course syllabus.

In addition, campus protests and last-minute administrative decisions led to further postponements, including the deferment of an English language skills paper in late December across affiliated colleges.

Underlying Factors Tied to Policy Transition

The Controller of Examinations at Panjab University attributed the recent challenges to the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP), which expanded the number of examination papers and introduced revised syllabi.

In an official response, the university authority stated that the transition placed unprecedented pressure on the examination system. Officials described the phase as a learning period and acknowledged that unforeseen issues contributed to operational disruptions.

These developments reflect broader efforts led by the Ministry of Education to implement NEP guidelines. While the policy promotes curricular flexibility, it has created short-term adjustment challenges for established institutions such as Panjab University.

Impacts on Students and Academic Schedule

The disruptions delayed assessments, confused candidates, and in some cases rendered attempted papers invalid, directly affecting student progression during the 2025–26 academic year.

Students from affiliated colleges in Chandigarh and regional centres reported significant difficulties and formally submitted complaints to seek redressal.

The university has not yet issued comprehensive resolutions for all affected examinations, although relevant boards of studies are currently examining the grievances.

Measures Announced for Future Improvement

Officials at Panjab University announced steps to strengthen coordination and prevent similar issues in future examination cycles.

Planned measures include:

Installing CCTV cameras in examination halls across all affiliated colleges before the next academic cycle.
Refining examination procedures based on lessons learned during the current transition phase.

These initiatives aim to improve the conduct of semester examinations and entrance tests across Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh.

Broader Context for Higher Education Stakeholders

As Panjab University continues to integrate NEP reforms, similar transitional challenges may affect affiliated institutions, influencing academic calendars, admission schedules, and evaluation timelines.

The university has advised candidates and faculty members to regularly check official portal notifications for updates on rescheduled examinations, revised date sheets, and additional guidelines for the ongoing session.

Written by Shreoshree Chakrabarty

Shreoshree Chakrabarty is an experienced content writer with over five years of professional expertise in creating engaging and impactful content across diverse formats. Over the course of her career, she has collaborated with well-known brands such as Myntra and Justdial, contributing high-quality content that aligns with brand voice and audience expectations. Academically, Shreoshree holds a Master’s degree in Mass Communication, and outside of her professional pursuits, she is an avid reader and a passionate traveller who enjoys exploring new places and cultures. She also loves watching movies, finding inspiration in cinema and literature that often reflects in her writing style.

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