Crossword Genius

Takes issue in favour of examinations (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

protests

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'takes' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both acts as well as being plural nouns.
Perhaps there's a link between them I don't understand?

'in favour of examinations' is the wordplay.
'in favour of' becomes 'pro' (being pro a particular cause).
'examinations' becomes 'tests' ('test' can be a synonym of 'examination').
'pro'+'tests'='PROTESTS'

'issue' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for protests that I've seen before include "Expresses an objection" , "Complaints and objections" , "Raises objection" , "Public demonstrations to object to something" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
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