Panjab University launches Scribe Bank digital platform to expand accessible examination support

Chandigarh, October 14, 2026: In a major student-friendly initiative to promote inclusive education and strengthen examination support for persons with disabilities, Panjab University today launched the Scribe Bank website and mobile application to simplify access to scribe assistance for eligible students with disabilities during examinations. The initiative aims to make examination support more accessible, streamline requests and improve coordination between students requiring scribes and registered volunteers.

The platform was launched by PU Vice Chancellor,  Prof. Meenakshi Goyal, on the occasion of International White Cane Day, in collaboration with Save The Quest (STQ), a CSR initiative of Indian Oil Corporation Limited. The launch took place in the presence of Prof. Yajvender Pal Verma, Registrar; Prof. Jagat Bhushan, Controller of Examinations; Prof. Ramesh Kataria, Coordinator, Equal Opportunity Cell for Persons with Disabilities (EOC-PwDs); Prof. Yogesh Rawal, Dean Student Welfare; Dr. Neelima Dhingra, Co-coordinator, EOC-PwDs; Jasmer Singh, Assistant Registrar, Conduct; and Narender Luthra, Superintendent, EOC-PwDs.

Representing Save The Quest, Saif Ahmed Khan, Founder and Managing Director, and Mandeep Singh, Project Manager, attended the launch.

The digital platform will enable eligible students to register and request scribe assistance, while volunteers can register to support them during examinations. It is expected to simplify the process of connecting students with volunteers and reduce procedural difficulties associated with arranging examination support.

The initiative is intended to benefit eligible students across Panjab University, its regional centres and affiliated colleges. The University will encourage affiliated colleges to facilitate student registration and motivate volunteers to join the initiative, extending the reach of the service beyond the main campus.

The Scribe Bank is designed to strengthen examination support for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBDs) and other eligible candidates requiring scribe assistance, in accordance with applicable rules and guidelines. The collaboration seeks to promote accessible and dignified examination arrangements, particularly for students with visual impairments and other disabilities.

The Equal Opportunity Cell for Persons with Disabilities and the Office of the Controller of Examinations are coordinating the implementation of the initiative and encouraging eligible students, affiliated colleges and volunteers to use the platform.

The launch marks a step towards strengthening inclusive examination practices at Panjab University, with the digital platform intended to help eligible students access scribe services more efficiently and participate in examinations with greater confidence and independence.