CAT 2012@ We will do our best to avoid unpleasant surprises during CAT 2012 : Prof. SSS Kumar, CAT 2012 Convenor

With IIM Kozhikode announcing the dates of CAT 2012, all expectant eyes turn to the man in the hot seat, Prof. SSS Kumar, CAT 2012 Convenor. It takes diligent planning and strategy in place to make the biggest national MBA entrance exam a success.

In an exclusive interview with MBAUniverse.com, Prof. SSS Kumar shares his thoughts on his expectations from CAT 2012, the steps taken to avoid glitches and snags and his message for the CAT 2012 takers.Prof. Kumar joined IIM Kozhikode in 2003, prior to which he has taught in ISM Dhanbad and National Institute of Bank Management, Pune.  Prof. Kumar obtained his doctorate from Indian School of Mines Dhanbad. He did his MBA from S.V. University and B.Tech from REC Calicut. 

Excerpts from the interview:

Q: What are your expectations from CAT 2012?

A: CAT 2012 should go well and as in yester years it should facilitate IIMs and Non-IIMs  to admit students through CAT. With the ultimate goal of conducting a glitch-free CAT 2012 my immediate goal is ensuring a hassle free experience for aspirants who will appear in CAT 2012. 

Q: What are the steps you are taking to conduct a hassle free CAT 2012?

A: We are fine tuning all the qualitative aspects related to pre and the post test processes. We are putting in maximum efforts and leaving no stone unturned to avoid any unpleasant surprise during the conduct of CAT 2012.  

Q:  CAT has seen a gradual dip in the number of registrations. Do you believe the scenario would improve this year?

A: I feel number of test takers is not something like earnings numbers of corporate and expect a secular growth. I guess the number of aspirants has stabilized and we should respect the aspirations of the next generation. 

Q: The timeline of CAT 2012 process is preponed compared to the previous year’s CAT with respect to registration, exam and result. Was it a conscious decision?

A: It was not a very conscious or significant step. Our main aim was to adjust the schedule so that the CAT 2012 dates don’t clash with any major festival dates. No significant shifts but few adjustments are required so that the testing window is scheduled to take care of the festive days. 

Q:  What is your message for Prometric, the agency which conducts the computer based CAT?

A: Prometric had been our partner in administering CAT and their role is well-known. I am sure they will meet up to our expectations. 

Q:  What is your suggestion for CAT 2012 takers?

A: All I would like to tell the CAT 2012 aspirants is that there are no shortcuts to success. Hard work and diligence will always be rewarded. 

Stay tuned to MBAUniverse.com for more interviews and updates on CAT 2012.