The news item in the Herald “Err in setting paper, evaluating answer, pay penalty” is a landmark decision by Goa Board, though long overdue. Nevertheless it is certain to provide some solace and peace of mind to those facing future board examinations with added confidence.
Everyone is aware that the very thought of appearing for the exams makes even well prepared students nervous and apprehensive, not only about answering the questions on the papers but uncertainty that they may have to attempt some questions that are wrongly framed, badly printed and very often not forming part of the prescribed syllabus. Or later still worse improper and faulty evaluation or paper checking.
Hence in this highly competitive world losing marks for no fault of their own, becomes an issue of great disappointment and frustration and often makes them miss on deserved admissions for next study courses, for which the students were aiming for. Also the action taken by the Goa Board in the form of massive re-evaluation and awarding grace marks, as a result of much hue and cry created by students and their parents did not provide the necessary and satisfactory solution.
Most probably the Goa Board until now on account of unprecedented protests on print media as well social media, may have resorted to reprimanding of concerned wrong doers such as paper-setters and paper-correctors, but what has been missing so far was accountability and appropriate punishment for their mistakes in terms of monetary penalties.
Now that such a stringent action in the form of deduction in remuneration is proposed to be implemented by the board, hopefully this will deter those responsible for setting the papers and checking the papers to be more serious, responsible and extra careful.
Now coming to those who check the exam papers, it may be that they have some genuine difficulties namely not being provided with proper guidelines, inadequate marking schemes and sometimes required time to do justice for their work, thus compelling them to commit errors albeit unintentionally.
The board authorities should also look into this matter and rectify the shortcomings.
Finally all factors responsible leading to faulty examination system need to be fully rectified and the students under no circumstances should be subjected to any tension or uncertainties. Let them answer the examinations without fear or mental confusion.
