For nixing paper leaks, Board turns to BEOs

BANGALORE: With many fingers pointing to the Department of Pre-University (PU) Education for its alleged failure in preventing leaks of mathematics and physics question papers, discussions are underway to add taluklevel officials such as Block Education Officers (BEOs) in the administration of PU education.“Talks are on in this regard. A committee has been formed to look into reorganisation of different functions in the system,” said Commissioner of Public Instruction Tushar Girinath.According to a fresh circular issued by the Department of Public Instruction, all BEOs have been instructed to take the responsibility of keeping the remaining II PUC final examination question papers in taluk treasuries, a well-established practice that has been followed for years.This, however, is due to the lack of taluk-level officials in the DPUE, which makes BEOs the only ones to be entrusted with this responsibility.Pointing out at this deficiency, Girinath added: “With a rescheduled timetable, BEOs are the only qualified gazetted officers who can take this responsibility.Why there is no official in the DPUE at taluk-level is a question of fundamental change, which is also being discussed.” The state has set up two committees — one each for government and private schools — under the chairmanship of Vice-Chancellor of National University of Urban Planning and Administration Prof R Govinda.These committees will focus on structural re-engineering of school education in the state, including merger of high schools with Pre- University department.