LAHORE: The University of Engineering and Technology (UET) on Sunday announced that it will conduct entrance tests online for admission to undergraduate degree programmes in engineering and technology at all public sector universities in the province.

For the last two decades, the Punjab government had entrusted the UET Lahore with the responsibility to conduct entrance tests for admission to undergraduate degree programmes in engineering and technology at all public sector universities. Every year, around 50,000 applicants sat the test.

For the first time, the UET entrance test will be conducted online this year. As a policy, the test will be conducted immediately at the end of the Intermediate second year theory exams. However, even if the Intermediate examinations are postponed due to the coronavirus threat, the entrance test would go ahead.

The varsity has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Virtual University (VU) to conduct the test at designated VU campuses out of the 150 across Punjab. The UET Syndicate approved the MoU in its meetings held on Feb 29 and March 5.

In order for the applicants to familiarise themselves with the location, software and environment, a mock test will be organised a week before the actual test. The mock test will be scheduled at the same time and place where an applicant will sit the actual test.

UET Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Syed Mansoor Sarwar said the applicants will be able to sit the test at a centre close to their hometown. He said the collaboration with VU was a precursor to many more the UET would establish with other local and international universities and industries to facilitate students, improve academic standards, produce industry-ready graduates, and carry out industry relevant research and development activities.

VU Registrar Dr Mohsin Javed told Dawn that they were working with the UET to help develop a system and provide technical support for starting online entrance tests.

“We will also hold mock entry test to check the confidentiality aspectand will ensure it is implemented,” he added.

Mr Javed said that VU technical team was working to develop the system and they would focus on ensuring confidentiality and sanctity of the paper.

Published in Dawn, April 13th, 2020