Poor planning sparks outcry over music and dance exam

Mangaluru: Candidates, parents, and evaluators have raised serious concerns over the alleged disorganised conduct of examinations by Dr Gangubai Hangal Music and Performing Arts University, Mysuru. They cited poor communication, last-minute changes, and logistical lapses that disrupted the smooth flow of both theory and practical exams.

The theory exams for various grades were held last Sunday, while practical exams in dance, music, and percussion for junior and senior levels took place at Besant Educational Institutions in Mangaluru, over the weekend. Exams were also conducted in Udupi and Puttur.

A parent who travelled from Udupi for the Bharatanatyam practical exam on Saturday, shared their frustration, stating that the theory exam held at University College, Hampankatta, last Sunday, was poorly organised. "In the morning session, students were allotted one room, but in the afternoon, the room was changed without prior notice. The time allotted for writing was also reduced, and there was barely any break for the children to have lunch between sessions," the parent alleged.

Evaluators, many of whom are trained music and dance teachers, said they were notified only a day in advance to report for two full days of exam duty. "This is unprofessional. We need time to adjust our schedules. The university must plan better," said a senior Bharatanatyam teacher.

Adding to the frustration, some parents said they have not yet received the marks card from last year's exams. The exams were previously conducted by the Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) , but have been under the music university's purview since last year.

In response, Bhuvaneshwari, deputy custodian, said nearly 5,000 students across Karnataka are appearing for the exams. "We are scheduling exams based on venue availability, and are working to resolve logistical and communication gaps," she said.