n a move to check exam-related malpractices, the Cochin University of Science and Technology plans to install CCTV cameras at its School of Engineering (SOE), Thrikkakara, and Cochin University College of Engineering, Kuttanad (Cucek).
In the first phase of the project, examination halls at SOE on the main campus in Thrikkakara and Cucek at Pulinkunnu near Alappuzha will have CCTV cameras.
The footage will later be reviewed by the section officials to check whether students had resorted to copying in the examinations. Stringent action will be taken against the erring students based on the visuals, which will be available at a central facility on the campus. Teachers will also be asked to step up monitoring to catch exam cheats.
The Hindu has learnt that the authorities had initiated work to purchase the CCTVs. It will be installed at the examination halls by the new academic year. The varsity has no plans to ask its affiliated private engineering colleges to install the cameras in view of the government decision to de-affiliate such institutions and merge it with the Kerala Technological University (KTU).
The decision to install CCTVs inside examination halls comes part of the steps being taken by the varsity to implement the recommendations made by the Governor P. Sathasivam at the recently concluded meeting of vice chancellors in Thiruvananthapuram. The Chancellor had stressed the need for improving transparency in the conduct of examinations, particularly at self-financing institutions. Vice Chancellors were directed to closely monitor the conduct of examinations.
CCTVs at key spots
Closed-circuit television cameras will also be installed at key spots on the Cusat’s campus at Thrikkakara. The facility will be set up at the entrance of the varsity’s administrative building. Cameras will also be put up at the entrance of the women’s hostel as part of the safety and security measures being implemented on the campus. CCTV camera will also be installed at the main lobby of the university administrative building.
The varsity guesthouse will also come under the camera surveillance.
