KSEAB permits visually impaired students to write SSLC, II PUC exams on computers
Bengaluru: The Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) has decided to allow visually impaired students appearing for SSLC and II PUC examinations to write their papers using computers from the current academic year.
The decision follows repeated requests from students and parents seeking an alternative to the reader-cum-scribe-only model. Calling it a significant shift in examination access for students with visual disabilities KSEAB Director Gopalakrishna H.N. said eligible students who wish to opt for the digital mode will have to register separately, after which the board will make arrangements based on the number of such candidates.
While the reader-cum-scribe facility will continue to be available, the computer option will be restricted strictly to typing answers. Students will be required to bring their own laptops or computers, which must be formatted and cleared after inspection by the centre’s computer teacher. The devices will not be permitted any internet connectivity to ensure the integrity of the examination process.
The board has specified that only approved software such as Windows 10 or 11, MS Office, Multilingual Nudi 6.5, Mathcad, and other software cleared by the National Association for the Blind may be installed on the devices. Permission for using a computer will be granted only on the recommendation of a competent medical authority.
During the examination, the reader-cum-scribe will read out the questions, while the student types the answers. In the event of a technical failure, the scribe may write the responses dictated by the student, with the examination superintendent authorised to allow additional time if required.
Once the examination is completed, students must submit a printed copy of their typed answers. The KSEAB has instructed centre superintendents to ensure the availability of printers at examination centres for this purpose.
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Heritage city Mysuru gears up to welcome New Year with full occupancy, tight security
Mysuru: The heritage city of Mysuru is set to ring in the New Year with large-scale celebrations, as hotels, resorts and clubs across the city report full occupancy amid a surge in tourist arrivals.
According to a report published by Deccan Herald on Wednesday, star-category hotels, resorts and clubs in and around Mysuru have lined up special New Year’s Eve events featuring music, dance, food and entertainment. Organisers have introduced packages ranging from ₹499 to ₹5,999, catering to couples, families and groups.
According to Mysore Hotel Owners' Association President C Narayangowda said, "All 10,500 rooms in twenty-five-star category hotels and 400 hotels and lodges, are 100 per cent occupied from December 24. They are booked till January 2." Resorts around Kabini backwaters and the Bandipur Tiger Reserve have also reported 100% occupancy.
Several hotels and resorts have planned curated buffet menus, live music programmes, DJ nights and cultural performances, while clubs such as the Cosmopolitan Club, Heritage Club, Sports Club and Golf Club have organised countdown events to welcome the New Year.
They are spending the vacation by visiting Chamundi Hill, Palace, Zoo, Dasara Exhibition, among other attractions. Many people have even booked tickets in advance to attend these events on Wednesday night.
Former Vice President of Karnataka Tourism Forum M Ravi said, "In order to compensate for the Safari ban in Bandipur and Kabini backwaters belt, resorts are offering several attractive events, activities and services like spa. They are even taking people on Safaris to Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu and Wayanad region in Kerala."
Meanwhile, businesses such as cloud kitchens, bakeries and sweet shops have reported a rise in advance bookings for New Year celebrations, especially for bulk orders.
In wake of the blast of a cylinder used to fill balloons on Jayamarthanda gate of Mysuru Palace last week, Mysuru Palace board has taken all necessary precautions along with Police to host new year celebrations at Palace premises on December 31.
There will be a Karnataka and English police band concert between 11 pm to 12 am and fireworks from 12am to 12.15am at the backdrop of illuminated Mysuru Palace, said Palace Board Deputy Director, T S Subramanya.
Mysuru City Police Commissioner Seema Latkar reportedly said security has been strengthened across the city to ensure peaceful celebrations. Police have issued guidelines for hoteliers and the public, and additional personnel have been deployed at key locations.
