Ahmedabad: Students of govt engineering and arts-commerce colleges in Gujarat have raised objections after colleges changed examination timings and directed students to remain present on campus in the evening for programmes linked to Vishwakarma Jayanti celebrations.At Govt Vishwakarma Govt Engineering College, mid-term examinations in departments including computer engineering were scheduled at different times on Thursday. An examination earlier scheduled from 11am to 12.30pm was reportedly shifted to 5pm to 6pm, while another examination scheduled from 4.30pm to 5.30pm was delayed by 30 minutes.The college directed students to remain on campus after the exams and participate in programmes held on the instructions of the commissioner of technical education. These programmes were part of the ‘Seva and Dedication – 25 Years’ celebrations and included activities titled ‘Seva Ek Yagna’ and ‘Jeevan Ae Badlav’.The sudden changes triggered complaints, particularly from students travelling from other towns and female students. Some parents reportedly reached the college. The college clarified that the programmes were being organised as part of Vishwakarma Jayanti celebrations. However, parents questioned the need to make students remain present compulsorily after examinations.A similar controversy emerged at govt arts and commerce colleges, where students have reportedly been instructed to remain present from 6pm to 7pm and participate in cultural programmes. The directive has also affected BCom and BA Semester 3 and 5 students whose examinations are currently underway. Students of colleges operating only during morning hours have also reportedly been asked to return in the evening.
