Cambridge plans local tests

University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) will be concentrating in India, mainly the eastern region for expanding its base, Mark Bartholomew, regional manager, CIE said here.

CIE is expecting to tie up with at least 100 schools by June 2005 and 200 by the year end for their several international examination.

"We will be looking specially at West Bengal because of the standard of education in the state and are looking forward to tie up with 15 schools in the state by July 2005," said Bartholomew.

At present, CIE has affiliated 6 schools in the state for their examination.CIE has set a long term goal of being associated with 1000 Indian schools by 2010.

Examination conducted by CIE are not only recognised across the globe but are also recognised by all major Indian universities, engineering and medical colleges including Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), assured Bartholomew.

Presently, CIE is earning a revenue of one lakh pound against their expenditure of around 3.5 lakh pound.

"We are expecting to break even by 2006. We will plough back the surplus for building the infrastructure in the country," he added.

CIE will also be bringing experts from United Kingdom to train Indian teachers later this year, he added. "The experts will also be helping the Indian teachers to create self help group so as to address issues arising down the line," Bartholomew added.

Mauritius, Singapore Brunei are among the highest revenue earner for CIE. CIE will be spending substantial amount for creating awareness and brand promotion of this globally recognised examination.