RU launches paperless exam system as first public university

Rajshahi University (RU) has launched a paperless examination system, becoming the country's first public university to introduce the technology-driven model, according to university officials.

The system is initially being used for examinations in the Department of Information and Communication Engineering (ICE).

Third-year students took a tutorial exam using the system on 30 September, with plans to gradually introduce it in other departments.

The system was developed under the supervision of Professor Md Hasnat Kabir, director of the university's ICT Centre and acting controller of examinations, by Omar Faruk, a fourth-year ICE student, and Samiul Basir, a master's student.

The system has separate platforms for students, teachers and administrators.

Students can answer MCQs and short questions online and receive immediate results, correct answers and explanations after completing an exam, according to its developers.

It also includes a question bank for teachers, automated evaluation and tools for storing results, monitoring examinations and generating analytical reports.

Hasnat Kabir said the system would make examinations more transparent and reduce the time required for evaluation and result publication.

"Rajshahi University is moving away from the conventional paper-based examination system towards a more modern, transparent and effective model," he said.

He said the system would initially be used in the ICE department before being introduced to other departments based on its effectiveness.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Md Faridul Islam said the university was gradually bringing its activities under automation to reduce difficulties for students.

"The paperless exam system has been introduced to make the examination process more transparent and hassle-free for students," he said.

He added that students would need computer skills to take part in the examinations, which he described as an important learning experience.