St Agnes College Reschedules Two Exams Following Student Protest Over Dasara Holidays
Mangaluru: St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, has decided to reschedule the end-semester examinations originally scheduled for October 19 and 22 following a protest by a section of students demanding that examinations be postponed in view of the Dasara festival.
In a clarification issued on Monday, the college said the October 2026 end-semester examinations had been scheduled in accordance with the approved academic calendar, ensuring no examinations were held on gazetted public holidays.
The draft examination timetable was circulated to students on September 11, allowing 15 days for them to raise objections, seek clarifications, or suggest changes. The final timetable was published on September 26 because the college had received no objections or requests for changes to the examination dates.
The college also stated that the examination schedule had been prepared after considering the academic commitments of students undertaking internships and projects already planned as part of their curriculum.
According to the clarification, the college first received information about the proposed protest through social media at 11.36 am on Sunday, October 11. As a precautionary measure, the administration contacted the Office of the Police Commissioner and local police authorities to ensure the safety and security of students, faculty members and staff.
On Monday, October 12, a section of students staged a protest and raised slogans against the institution without prior formal intimation or submission of a representation to the college authorities, the statement said.
After considering the students’ concerns and in the broader interest of maintaining a harmonious academic environment, the college administration decided to reschedule the examinations scheduled for October 19 and 22. The revised dates will be communicated to students through official channels.
Although the protest involved only a section of students, the college said it responded to their concerns in a spirit of dialogue, understanding, and goodwill. The decision reflected its commitment to addressing genuine student concerns while safeguarding academic interests and maintaining institutional stability.
The college reiterated that all academic and administrative decisions were guided by academic requirements, institutional regulations and the directions of the competent authorities.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to secularism, equality, inclusiveness, religious harmony and mutual respect, describing these values as fundamental to its educational mission and administrative practices.
While remaining open to constructive dialogue and genuine student concerns, the college urged students to follow established institutional procedures and maintain discipline and decorum. It warned that any further incidents of indiscipline, obstruction of academic activities, or disturbance of campus peace would be taken seriously and dealt with in accordance with applicable institutional regulations.
The Principal and the college administration expressed their gratitude to the Deputy Commissioner, the Police Commissioner, and police personnel, as well as members of the Parents’ Association, for their timely assistance, cooperation, and support in maintaining peace and order.
