In a bid to streamline the examination system and increase accountability, the University of Mumbai has decided to introduce the cluster system.
In this system, all colleges in a particular area will have one lead college that will be responsible for conducting the exams on the University’s behalf. Additionally, the joint examination conductor will be appointed from the lead college, and distribution of question papers will also be its responsibility.
The lead college will also keep track of the academic progress of the colleges in its cluster.
According to the new concept, the college, preferably accredited or re-accredited by the National Academic and Assessment Council (NAAC) with an “A”grade, will be identified and designated as
the lead college and the principal of this lead college will act as a link between the University and the member colleges of the cluster.
“About 10 colleges from a geographical area will be under the lead college. The lead college will be the appointers of the joint chief exam conductors. In case of examinations and papers, the question paper packets will be given to the lead college, from where they will then be distributed to cluster colleges,” said a senior University official.
Dr C.T. Chakravorty, principal of Thakur College said, “The new concept will make the academic working of the colleges smooth and flexible, as all the colleges will be led by one college. It will help the University work swiftly, as the work will
be divided. The only fallout of the system is that the workload for the lead college will multiply immensely.”
Dr Madhu Nair, member of the Academic Council and Dean of Commerce, MU said, “The plan is nearly finalised and the concept will be implemented soon.”