B Pharm students falter repeat8217; cource

The first revision in the syllabus was effected mid-semester in December last year, in an attempt to standardise the first year B Pharm course across the state. Subjects like Organic Chemistry and Computer Applications were deleted and new ones like Hospital Pharmacy were included. Having upset study schedules mid-way, the move drew vociferous protests fromstudents. But the university dismissed them, attributing it to teething problems since the university itself was set up late.

Ironically, to clear the confusion, the university organised a workshop in Nashik for first year B Pharm teachers in January, when among other things, the depth of topics to be covered and reference books were discussed. But the shocker came in March, when colleges received copies of a revised syllabus, which incorporated the recommendations of the January workshop.

The revised syllabus had extended the scope and content of almost every subject with those like Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering and Pathophysiology being dealt with in greater detail. Also, the number of excercises in the pharmaceutical practicals was increased. Having just survived one revision 8212; that too after periodic tests had been conducted in accordance with the original one 8212; the second revision was galling, students and teachers told Express Newsline.

While some colleges adopted the courserevision, others made representations to the university in protest.

But the real shocker came in May, when the university clarified that the syllabus revised in March was actually meant to be implemented in the 2000-2001 academic year! It admitted that the copies it had despatched to colleges in March should have been accompanied by instructions stating that the revised syllabus was meant for the next academic year.

However, the official clarification, dated May 5, contained no trace of an apology. Signed by the chairperson of the Board of Studies, it read: 8220;Considering the fears that the students have in their mind8230; the syllabus followed for setting up of papers and practicals of the first year B Pharm exam will be based on the one given in December 1998.8221;

Remarks a principal of a Mumbai college, 8220;Students are at a loss to know exactly what to study, considering they have to first learn something and then forget it!8221; Besides, teachers and administrators have had a rough time changing time-tablesand making laboratories available, all in keeping with the 8220;fluid syllabus8221;, the principal adds.

Vice-Chancellor of the health university, Dr Dayanand Dongaonkar, admits that there was a 8220;slight confusion8217;. But, he said, the matter had been settled now that a clarification had been issued. 8220;The syllabus was not meant for this year, but there was a communication gap8230;,8221; he told Express Newsline.

Asked about the two-month delay in issuing the clarification, he said the representations from students and teachers came later. Further, 8220;I have discussed this with students and teachers and the new syllabus has not been taught..,8221; he claims.