UGC-NET Exam Cancellation Sparks Students Outcry in Pune: Calls for Refunds and Fairness

UGC-NET Exam Cancellation Sparks Students Outcry in Pune: Calls for Refunds and Fairness

Following the controversy surrounding the NEET exam, the UGC-NET exam faced its challenges. The Education Ministry decided to cancel the June 2024 examination, which was held on June 18, due to concerns over its integrity. The decision was made after reports of potential leaks and irregularities in the examination process.

Many post-graduate students in Pune were left in a difficult situation. Swapnil Tambe, a history student who recently completed his MA, expressed frustration as he had to travel from Pune to Daund for the exam, incurring significant expenses for fees and travel. He emphasized the hardship of managing these costs as a student and insisted that future exams should be held closer to home to ease the financial burden.

Bapurao Gungargaonkar, a 28-year-old post-graduate attempting the exam for the second time, echoed similar concerns. He had to travel over 85 km to Daund, facing logistical challenges and expenses that added to his frustration. His previous experience with the UGC-NET exam in 2023 was marred by technical issues, specifically, the online platform crashing multiple times during the exam, further compounding his difficulties securing employment.

Both students, Swapnil and Bapurao, are not just seeking refunds of their exam fees and compensation for the additional expenses. They are demanding a more student-friendly examination process that takes into account the financial and logistical challenges students face, especially in the current circumstances. Their demand for fairness and accessibility resonates with many students in similar situations.

On June 20, students associated with the Vidyapith Vidyarthi Sangharsh Kruti Samiti united in protest at Savitribai Phule Pune University, condemning the irregularities in national-level exams. Rahul Sasane, representing the committee, highlighted the academic and financial losses students face when such discrepancies occur. This collective action underscores the unity and solidarity among the student community.

Manish Joshi, the secretary of the UGC office in Pune, clarified that the National Testing Agency (NTA) would conduct the re-test. He emphasized that the UGC had entrusted the NTA with the responsibility of conducting the exams, and they would manage the process in the future. The NTA, known for its expertise in conducting fair and transparent examinations, will ensure that the re-test is conducted without any irregularities.

The UGC-NET exam cancellation has not only sparked frustration and concern among students but also a strong call for transparent and reliable examination processes. This incident has highlighted the need for a system that does not impose undue hardships on candidates striving to build their careers through these competitive exams.