The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has partnered with Microsoft India to digitally encrypt question papers for Class X and XII examinations. The main goal to initiate such a move is to enhance security and seamless distribution of the papers.
Microsoft says that this solution was successfully tested as a pilot project in the recently held Class X compartmental examinations, across 487 examination centers with approximately 4,000 students. Through this, the controller of the examination can track the entire process using a software solution built on Windows 10 and Office 365.
Microsoft further added that the overall process is automated to be highly secure with encryption, two-factor authentication, and access to download the exam papers at the examination center only 30 minutes prior to start time. It leverages features in Office 365 to encrypt and watermark the papers. The watermark has the individual center’s code imprinted on it which allows for localization and traceability in the eventuality of a paper leak.
A CBSE administrator initiates the distribution of exam papers, which results in the generation of emails to the respective centers with a link to One Drive where an exam paper, specific to the exam center can be downloaded. Microsoft also said that it is working closely with public and private institutions to help modernize education, impart ICT skills training and provide low or no cost technology that helps students.
Commenting on the partnership Anil Bhansali, Corporate Vice President, Cloud & Enterprise, Managing Director, Microsoft India (R&D) Private Limited said:
A strong education ecosystem is key to our nation’s development and Microsoft and CBSE are deeply committed to digitally transform the sector. Innovative implementation of technology has the potential to solve some of the most pressing issues faced by the sector. The success of this partnership with CBSE is proof of that potential. I am confident we are well on the way towards a digitally empowered education ecosystem.