Rhodes University has introduced additional examination rules for 2016 end of year examinations in an attempt to tighten security at the institution.
Rhodes University has introduced additional examination rules for 2016 end of year examinations in an attempt to tighten security at the institution.
In a letter issued to students by the University's Registry department it is explained that the need for additional security has led to new rules which will be very strictly enforced.
The conditions are as follows:
1. Late comers will not be permitted to write examination.
Students must report to the examination venue an hour before the scheduled start. (For a 08:30 examination students must be there at 07:30.) At the scheduled start the venues will be locked and no further access permitted.
2. Security checks and no access to examinations without ID.
A photo ID must be produced to gain entry to the examination hall (ID, passport, driver's license or student card). In addition to checking ID, a check will be made to ensure that the student is registered for an examination to be written in the venue.
Students will be required to empty their pockets into plastic bags (will be provided) and to undergo a standard security pat down such as those undertaken at all airports.
These checks will be time consuming hence the need for having to arrive early and produce an ID.
3. No bags, cell phones or water permitted.
Nothing may be brought into the examination venue other than items in a transparent plastic sleeve which must be placed on the desk. No other bags are permitted and the system of placing bags at the front or back of the venue will be discontinued. No facility to store cell phones will be available so they are simply not permitted in examination venues. Only items of clothing that are being worn are permitted, no additional items. Water will be provided but may not be brought into the venue.
4. No early exit will be permitted.
For security reasons the opening and closing of doors will be limited. The venues will be locked down at the start and only opened at the end of the examination. Students completing early will be required to remain seated until the end of the examination.
The university also issued a notice stating that all examination venues will be under CCTV surveillance. "In addition to providing an additional measure to ensure that examination infringement is detected, they will provide sufficient evidence to prosecute offenders should there be any disruption of an examination. Offenders will be evicted, receive 0 percent for the examination, suspended from the University and prosecuted in terms of the interdict."
Entrance to the Great Hall Verandah will be through the main entrance to the Great Hall, according to the notice.
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* Edited to exclude historical material at 8pm on 25 October 2016.
