Parents say no to 'super-spreader' Common Entrance Test for First Year Junior College

Students are worried about not being able to perform well in CET. Representation pic

Even as the first-ever Common Entrance Test (CET) for First Year Junior College (FYJC) admissions is caught in a court case, there is increasing opposition for the exam to be held in the offline mode.

According to parents, amid the fear of the anticipated third wave, an examination at this level in the offline mode can lead to severe safety concerns.

The CET is also being opposed by students coming from non-state board schools as it is going to be based on the state board curriculum. Apart from parents' fears, with the Std X results of all boards also declared, students are confident of being able to secure a seat in their desired college.

Why invite trouble?

"Over 11 lakh students have registered for the test as of now. If this test is held on a single day for all, it will be a super-spreader event, especially at a time when we all are threatened by a third wave. This puts not just students, but even their family members at risk. No other state has any such activity. Why is Maharashtra government inviting trouble?" said Anubha Shrivastava of the India Wide Parents Association, adding that she is receiving several such concerns from other parents.

"There was much uncertainty regarding the result as exams weren't held. Now that they are out, we can see that they are fair and justified. Moreover, students are also worried if they will be able to match the same score with offline exams now that it has been so long since they studied. The revision continues but even children have reached a saturation point," said Mukund Lanjekar, a parent.

‘CET not fair to all'

Another parent, requesting anonymity, said, "In its original format, the CET is unfair to non-state board students as it is based completely on the state board curriculum. Even as the court directs the state to include another curriculum, there is hardly any time for revision and preparation. Moreover, children appearing for an offline exam in such large numbers is going to be dangerous."

Meanwhile, the Bombay High Court which is hearing the case related to the CET concluded the hearing on Friday and has reserved the order till August 10.

An ICSE student had approached the court against the exam saying it is unfair to non-state board students. Earlier, the court had suggested including questions from the non-state board curriculum. But other boards were not in the favour of it and instead asked if admissions can be done on Std X marks.

Aug 21
When the CET is to be held in offline mode