Exams must test skills, not just memory: MDU education experts - Over 150 educators deliberate on exam security, AI, inclusion and student well-being at Jan-Pariksha-Samvad 2026

Rohtak, September 11, 2026: Examinations should go beyond testing students’ memory and assess critical thinking, creativity, analytical ability and problem-solving skills, education experts said at Jan-Pariksha-Samvad 2026 organised at Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU) on Friday.
               The event, jointly organised by the Bharatiya Shiksha Mandal, Haryana, and MDU’s Faculty Development Centre, brought together more than 150 educators, examination officials, teachers, researchers, students and civil society representatives from across Haryana.
               The experts discussed ways to reform assessment systems by integrating the Indian knowledge tradition with modern technology and a student-centric approach. They stressed improving question-paper quality, balancing objective and descriptive questions, maintaining uniformity in evaluation and strengthening moderation mechanisms.
               Examination security emerged as a key concern, with discussions focusing on paper leaks, cheating, impersonation, secure handling of examination material, agency accountability and audit mechanisms. Speakers said technology alone could not ensure examination integrity without transparent procedures and robust monitoring.
               The role of artificial intelligence, computer-based testing, biometric authentication, digital evaluation and data-driven assessment was also discussed. Experts, however, underlined the need for cybersecurity, data privacy, ethical safeguards and human oversight.
               The participants also called for more inclusive examinations through regional languages, multilingual assessment and appropriate facilities for students with disabilities, as well as greater support for rural and economically disadvantaged learners.
               MDU Vice-Chancellor Prof Milap Puniya chaired the programme, while Central University of Haryana Vice-Chancellor Prof Tankeshwar Kumar was the keynote speaker. CBLU, Bhiwani Vice-Chancellor Prof Deepti Dharmani attended as the guest of honour, while Prof Devender Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Dr BR Ambedkar National Law University, Sonepat, attended the concluding session.
               Five thematic groups deliberated on examination design and assessment, security and integrity, technology-driven examinations, inclusion and language, and student experience and examination well-being before presenting their recommendations.