A/Level exam begins under strict health guidelines

by Zulfick Farzan 12-10-2020 | 11:44 AM

Colombo (News 1st); The G. C. E. Advanced Level Examination commenced on Monday (12) at 2648 examinating across the island and 362,824 candidates.

The Advanced Level Examination was originally scheduled for August 2020, however, authorities were compelled to postpone the examination following the COVID-19 pandemic.

This year's examination is taking place according to strict health guidelines, imposed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Candidates from the Gampaha District where the quarantine curfew is in effect, and are to sit for the examination in other districts, will be permitted to face the examination at 12 special dedicated examination centers, set up by the Education Ministry.

In addition, the Admission Card for the examination can be used as a curfew pass, said Sri Lanka authorities.

The Department of Examinations issued a series of instructions for students appearing for the G. C. E. Advanced Level Examination.

Candidates must present the National Identity Card, Valid Passport, or Valid Driving License along with the Examination Admission Card to verify their identity.

The guidelines state, in the three-hour examination question papers, an additional 10 minutes will be given for the selection of questions.

The Department of Examinations pointed out it is a punishable offense to keep notes and provide answers, to seek help and assistance from others, and to appear fraudulently on behalf of the applicant.

The use of smartwatches, mobile phones, and prohibited electronic devices will be banned during the examination period.

Candidates who commit the above offenses will be barred from appearing for all examinations conducted by the Examinations Department of Sri Lanka for a period of 5 years.

If such offenses care carried out, the results of this year's examination will be suspended, for the respective candidate.

The statement added the Health Ministry, the Armed Forces, the Disaster Management Center and the Ministry of Defense have been notified to appropriate measures in the event of emergencies due to the spread of COVID-19 or any other illness.

Department of Examinations stated an Additional Invigilator was appointed to coordinate the provision of facilities at the Advanced Level Examination Centers.