KUHS gives Go Ahead to MBBS exam schedule, allows students to apply for supplementary as first attempt

Kochi: Amidst the ongoing tension regarding the final-year MBBS examinations, the Kerala University of Health Sciences (KUHS) has given go-ahead for the continuation of the exams as per the schedule.

While the students are considering their next step and planning to approach the Division bench of Kerala High Court, the the Vice Chancellor of the University has confirmed that the students who boycotted the first exam would be allowed to appear for the supplementary examination in September. He has further informed TOI that their supplementary examination will be treated as their first examination.

Medical Dialogues had earlier reported about the crisis concerning the final-year MBBS examination at KUHS. At first, a group of MBBS students had approached the High Court seeking postponement of the exams. However, the court had rejected the application on the ground that the problem was faced by only a few students. Following this, a huge number of around 2,300 final year medicos approached the court and prayed for the similar demands. The students had pointed out that they did not have sufficient attendance and clinical exposure for the semester.

Meanwhile, even though the matter was sub judice, the University continued with its schedule and a huge number of more than 70% of total students had boycotted the first exam. They had also arranged a sit-in protest in front of the University and demanded immediate intervention from the Government to postpone the exam by two more months.

As per the University authorities, 2,171 students among 3,687 total students did not appear for the medicine first paper exam on Friday. On the other hand, the students claimed that more than 70% of regular students were absent in the exam and the number released by the University included the students who appeared for the supplementary examination. The students alleged that this was being done by the University to project a higher percentage of attendance.

Also Read: KUHS final-year MBBS students seek State intervention for exam postponement

The Times of India adds that the University has decided to go ahead with its examination schedule and such a decision was taken by the University on the basis of the legal advice given on the High Court's order on Monday. Now, with the University continuing with the examination schedule, the students are planning to approach the Division bench of Kerala High Court.

Meanwhile, the University has assured that the students who remained absent from the exam will be able to appear for the Supplementary examination in September.

Confirming the same, the Vice Chancellor of KUHS, Dr Mohanan Kunnummal further informed TOI that the supplementary examination will be treated as the first examination for those students and they will also not be required to submit fresh examination fee. 

"This was a liberal step taken by the university against the backdrop of the pandemic and this will be continued this year also," added the VC.

Also Read: Less Attendance, clinical Exposure: 2300 Kerala MBBS medicos reach HC for exam postponement