Bhubaneswar, June 2: Utkal University of Culture is facing growing criticism from students and parents over its failure to conduct undergraduate semester examinations on time, raising serious concerns about academic disruption and uncertainty.
As per the University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines, universities are expected to complete or schedule their 2nd, 4th, 6th, and 8th semester examinations by June. However, Utkal University of Culture has yet to even schedule the 1st semester undergraduate examinations, leaving hundreds of students in academic limbo.
Students have expressed strong dissatisfaction with the university’s handling of the examination calendar. “It’s already June, and we don’t even know when our 1st semester exams will be held,” said a visibly frustrated undergraduate student. “I had to cancel my family’s summer vacation plans because of this uncertainty. If this continues, we don’t know when our 2nd semester exams will happen.”
The delay has not only disrupted student schedules but also created anxiety among parents. Many fear that their children’s academic year may go to waste. “We are seriously worried. A year’s delay can affect future admissions and job prospects. The university must take responsibility,” said a concerned parent.
Despite the mounting pressure and growing dissatisfaction, the university administration, particularly the Vice Chancellor, has remained silent on the issue, further intensifying the frustration among stakeholders.
The students have urged the university authorities to take immediate action to publish the examination schedule and ensure timely academic progression, in line with national academic standards.
The delay in examinations raises broader questions about academic governance and accountability within state universities and calls for urgent intervention to safeguard the future of students.
