The Department of Pre-University Education is set to introduce a face recognition attendance device, an innovative system designed and developed by Arun Kumar, a second-year commerce student of Government PU College, Kombettu, Puttur. This remarkable student-driven initiative will soon be implemented as a pilot project across pre-university colleges in Puttur and Kadaba taluks.
The device, which was initially introduced for first-year students, is currently being used to track attendance of 210 students from grades eight and nine at the institution. The project has been developed under the mentorship of Mr. Ashlesh Kumar, Computer Teacher at the college.
Mr. Ashlesh shared that the model had received appreciation from Ms. Sindhu B. Rupesh, former Director of the Department of Pre-University Education, Bengaluru, who encouraged the team to refine the model for broader implementation. Following her direction, the department has decided to pilot the system in around 14 government PU colleges in the two taluks.
Explaining the working of the system, innovator Arun Kumar stated that the face recognition technology records a student’s attendance instantly upon arrival, displaying their name and parent’s contact details. A notification is then automatically sent to parents via Telegram, informing them of their ward’s arrival and departure. The system also generates a detailed attendance report by 11:00 AM, aiding the preparation of the midday meal schedule.
The device uses 3D facial recognition for accurate identification and was independently developed by Arun with guidance from his teachers. His earlier biometric attendance system prototype had already won accolades during a competition held at a private college in the city, showcasing his talent and innovative thinking.
This initiative marks a major step toward digital transformation and transparency in attendance management within the PU education system. The department’s move to promote student-led innovation reflects its commitment to encouraging creativity, technology integration, and practical problem-solving among young learners.
