CHENNAI: In a move impacting commercial typewriting institutes across Tamil Nadu, the Directorate of Technical Education (DoTE) has confirmed that computer-based examinations will be introduced under a unified system for government technical exams in typewriting. However, shorthand and accountancy tests will continue in the traditional physical format.

L Senthil, president of the Tamil Nadu Typewriting Computer Institutes Association, said more than 4,500 government-recognised institutes would be affected by the shift to desktop and laptop assessments. He said over 50,000 families involved in training students depended on these institutes for their livelihood.

He said association members planned to stage a protest in Chennai during the first week of January 2026, demanding the State government retain the current examination model. While larger commercial centres in cities could adapt by offering computer training, he said many smaller institutes lacked the resources to make such a transition.

At the same time, Senthil acknowledged that the introduction of computers reflected present-day realities. He said typewriters had become outdated and were difficult for children to practise on. He pointed out that young learners were already familiar with digital typing and tools for correcting errors.

According to the Standard Operating Procedure issued by the Directorate, candidates must undergo mandatory practice using the online learning management system provided for the computer-based exams. Limited exemptions will be permitted for institutes whose students require the traditional format, subject to permission.

A senior official from the Directorate said candidates must have completed three months of training by the publication of the notification in the third week of December 2025, either through approved institutions or self learning.

Online registration for the examinations will begin on December 30, with January 19, 2026 as the last date for enrolment. Technical examinations for typewriting, shorthand and accountancy will be held from February 7 to April 21.