Amid concerns over paper leaks, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU) will soon test paperless delivery of question papers using university-provided tablets, with papers to be decrypted directly on students’ devices at examination centres.
The pilot will be conducted during a carry-over examination at the Centre for Advanced Studies in the next few weeks. If successful, AKTU plans to expand the system to future examinations.
“The question paper in this pilot will be decrypted directly on the tablets. This will ensure paperless delivery and reduce logistical challenges. If the pilot is successful, we may implement it on a larger scale for future university examinations,” vice-chancellor Prof J.P. Pandey said.
The move is part of a broader overhaul of AKTU’s examination system aimed at improving transparency and curbing malpractice. Under the new system, students will have to report to examination centres at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start of the exam. Once the Controller of Examinations decrypts the question paper, no student will be allowed entry, an official informed.
The centre superintendent will also have to submit a digital affidavit confirming that no candidate entered the centre after the decryption process.
{{/usCountry}}The centre superintendent will also have to submit a digital affidavit confirming that no candidate entered the centre after the decryption process.
{{/usCountry}}The changes follow an incident in which a semester examination question paper was allegedly found with a student before the exam began at a Ghaziabad centre on May 21, officials said, requesting anonymity.
Students to test portal security
In another technology-focused initiative, AKTU will organise hackathons inviting students to test the security of its ERP (enterprise resource planning) and on-screen marking portals. Students will be asked to identify loopholes and weak links that could potentially lead to security breaches.
Pandey said students would be encouraged to contribute to strengthening the university’s internal digital systems alongside their classroom learning and technical training.
“The hackathons will help in strengthening the portals and ensure smooth functioning for students, faculty and other stakeholders who access them,” he said.
The university has shifted to an ERP portal through which students across Uttar Pradesh can address grievances and complete official work online without visiting its Lucknow or Noida campuses.