Pentecost University digitalizes exams invigilation to end cheating

The Management of the Accra-based Pentecost University (PU) as part of efforts to curb examination malpractices on campus has rolled out full-fledged innovation to monitor the conduct and invigilation of end of term examinations.

The initiative which involves using CCTV and related remote sensing technologies, PUC in a blog post sighted by EducationWeb.com.gh said took effect on Monday for the administration of the 2020/21-2nd semester examination.

“The initiative involves using CCTV and related remote sensing technologies. This took effect at the beginning of the 2020/21-second semester examination which began on Monday, 16th September 2021,” the university stated.

According to the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Rev. Prof. Kwabena Agyapong-Kodua, digital invigilation is a component of digitisation Pentecost University is rolling out in all of its operations to end cheating in exams.

“it will go a long way to enhance controls for the integrity of our examination processes and build the needed behavioural changes among students of the Pentecost university,” Rev. Prof. Kwabena Agyapong-Kodua said.

The Vice-Chancellor added that “the technology, when used appropriately, can constrain unwanted behaviours of students during the conduct of examinations and enhance the development of right attitudes to situations.”

Mr Emmanuel A. Agyekum, the Head of Digital Services of the leading private University said enough notices are posted at vantage points on campus to create awareness about the development for the prospective students.

The Pentecost University Digital Services head noted that his unit has put the necessary mechanisms in place for the live and clear feat, as well as appropriate responses to happenings at all examination centres.

Sharing his experience of the new technology to invigilate examinations, a Level 100 BSc. IT student identified as Derrick Adagbledu said digital monitoring has improved his experience “it reduced tension and interruptions” he said.

Eva Garima, a Level 200 BSc. Midwifery students said the digital monitoring made them more “vigilant because they didn’t know who was watching and had no means to plead if caught in a compromised situation.”