Amid growing student protests over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) has written to vice-chancellors and directors of higher education institutions, urging them to encourage students to remain focused on their studies and not allow their energies to be "diverted by calls to protest."

The letter, dated July 21 and signed by AIU President Professor Vinay Kumar Pathak, says the recent concerns surrounding the conduct of certain national-level examinations have led some students across campuses to stay away from classes and participate in protests and agitations, a trend it describes as a matter of concern.

Titled "Appeal to encourage students to remain focused on their studies and to repose faith in the ongoing strengthening of the examination system," the letter acknowledges that students' concerns are important and says they deserve to be heard with empathy and respect.

‘PROLONGED AGITATION EXACTS HEAVIEST PRICE FROM STUDENTS’

However, AIU argues that prolonged agitation "exacts its heaviest price from the students themselves," leading to academic disruption, distracted preparation and avoidable stress.

"This price is all the more unnecessary when the Government stands committed to resolving the issue and has already conducted the recent NEET examination in a transparent and error-free manner," the letter states, adding that universities should counsel students "with patience, sensitivity and care" to remain focused on their academic pursuits.

STUDENTS URGED TO DRAW CONFIDENCE FROM ASSURANCES

The Association also expresses confidence in the Centre's efforts to reform the examination system. Referring to assurances by the Prime Minister, the letter says the government is committed to ensuring that future examinations are conducted in a "completely fair, transparent and secure manner" and urges students to draw confidence from these assurances rather than anxiety from recent events.

Calling on university leaders to engage with students, mentor them and provide emotional support, the AIU says campuses should remain calm and focused.

"I am confident that, with your personal attention and compassionate leadership, our campuses will remain calm and focused, and our students will devote their full energies to their studies and to nation-building," Prof. Pathak said in the letter.

- Ends

Published By:

Mridusmita Deka

Published On:

Jul 22, 2026 11:21 IST