The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released guidelines to reopen universities and colleges after a nearly seven-month lockdown.
As per the guidelines, education institutions, outside containment zones, will reopen in phases, starting first with research, masters and final-year undergraduate students.
However, the number of students attending classes on campus, at a given time, should not be more than 50%, the guidelines said.
Higher education institutions and schools across the country remained closed since March 16 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
THE UGC has also suggested institutions extend teaching hours and follow a six-day schedule to accommodate students in batches and ensure social distancing.
Wearing a mask is mandatory for all teachers and staff on campus. Attendance for students will be voluntary. Universities have been asked to continue online classes for students who wish to study remotely.
Residential campuses will be allowed to operate hostels “where it is necessary”, but sharing of rooms has been forbidden.
“Isolation facilities for symptomatic persons and quarantine facilities for those who were in contact with the positively tested persons should be there on campus or a tie-up may be made in advance with some Government hospital or approved premises or as advised by the local authorities so that, in case of necessity, prompt action may be taken. Proper arrangement of safety, health, food, water etc. should be ensured for those in quarantine and isolation facilities,” the guidelines further stated.
