UGC issues guidelines for reopening of universities and colleges

New Delhi, Nov 5 : The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued new guidelines to reopen universities and colleges after a nearly seven-month lockdown in institutions for higher education across the country.
However, no institution should have attendance of more than 50 per cent of students. Online classes will continue for all programmes except science, technology and research.
According to the new guidelines, students can prefer to stay at home and continue with online classes. A limited number of hostels can be opened. More than one student cannot be allowed to stay in a hostel room.
Before reopening any educational complex, it should be ensured that the concerned central or state government has declared that area safe for opening educational institutions.
Union Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank said, “The Ministry of Education is ready to meet these new challenges. The UGC has formulated new guidelines for reopening of its premises keeping in view all options and alternatives. These guidelines have also been approved by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Ministry of Home Affairs.” In view of the spread of Covid-19, state and union territory governments have been consulted on opening of universities and colleges outside containment zones. Educational institutions across the country can be opened in a systematic manner after consultation with the state, Union Territory governments. It will be mandatory to adhere to UGC guidelines for re-opening educational institutions.