Students strategise around 75% rule

M.N. Emmanuel

Every strict policy invites an equal and creative response. A closer look at campus life shows that students are not just complying with the 75% attendance rule — they are strategizing.

The trend isn’t simply about meeting the attendance requirement; it’s about attendance optimization — a transactional approach where the goal is to survive the policy rather than embrace its philosophy.

Riyana, a Psychology II student, admits that while students “hate mandatory attendance,” she wishes “college was interesting enough that students would attend voluntarily, rather than having authorities enforce strict attendance rules.”

However, she also acknowledges that “mandatory attendance can benefit students because sometimes they might not be motivated to engage until there’s an external presence pushing them.”

Sparsh, a specially-abled student from the same department, believes there should be exceptions for students with disabilities or valid medical reasons. He shared that he didn’t face any attendance issues this semester, only because he pushed himself to attend despite the challenges.

Many students argue that, in addition to strict attendance rules, there should be a balance in student life. Akanksha, an M.A. Psychology II student, explains: “We do get exhausted, but we also have time to ourselves, where we play and explore. The breaks in between are a good thing.”

Students involved in extracurricular activities also report that staying engaged in clubs and events helps to balance their academic and personal lives.