Bi-annual exam system likely for associate degree programmes

The University of Karachi has decided to adopt bi-annual examination system for Associate Degree (AD) programmes in Arts, Science and Commerce, formerly called B.Com, BA and B.Sc programmes.

The policy, if approved, will be applicable on all public and private colleges affiliated with the University of Karachi.

Upon implementation of the bi-annual system, exams will be held twice a year covering one half of the syllabus in six months.

The teaching duration will be five months, followed by one month for exams.

This decision has been taken in line with the recent policy of Higher Education Commission (HEC) regarding associate degrees, introduced after abolishing two-year graduation programmes across the country.

According to sources, the Secretary of the Affiliation Committee of the University of Karachi, Professor Dr. Anila Amber Malik, has been directed by Vice Chancellor Dr. Khalid Iraqi to outline the plan for bi-annual examination system for Associate Degree Programmes during the Academic Council meeting scheduled for December 3.

If approved by the Academic Council, the AD programme in affiliated colleges will be switched to the new system which will be implemented from new admissions.

It may be mentioned that most of the public sector universities in the country have been running AD programmes under the annual examination system for the last four years. It is most likely that the University of Karachi will be the first among public sector universities to conduct bi-annual examinations for the associate degree programmes.