UNIVERSITY EXAMINATIONS

Dominion, Volume 22, Issue 48, 20 November 1928, Page 13

UNIVERSITY EXAMINATIONS

Sir,—In view of the numerous complaints regarding the conditions under which candidates have sat for universitj’ examinations at the Winter Show Building, I paid two visits upon different days to the building and unhesitatingly endorse the scathing comments already made in connection with this matter. Candidates sat in most instances clad in overcoats, mufflers and rugs, rendering it difficult for them to write replies to questions—if the noise and other discomforts complained of permitted sufficient thought for intelligent replies. Others brought hot water bottles or were clad in extra woollen garments, and in some instances got up and walked about to restore circulation. After the ordeal I watched candidates leaving, stiff in body and blue in the face with cold, and heard their loud and bitter complaints about the grossly unfair conditions under which they sat. The complaints have been definitely verified by me and are warranted, therefore Wellington candidates will be unfairly handicapped as compared with those in other centres and sub-centres of the Dominion who have sat under happier conditions. Most of our candidates have lost marks owing to the examination drawbacks and some have been unable to sit for all their subjects after years of study owing to illness contracted at the Show Building or sat for same when physically unfit owing to the same cause. I know definitely of three serious cases of illness caused by the examination hardships and have heard of many others. We now await prompt action by the university authorities to meet the just complaints of candidates and ease their mental worry.—l am. etc.. “ANOTHER PARENT.” Wellington. November 17.