The University Grants Commission (UGC) notified guidelines for reopening of universities and colleges across the country which have been closed since March in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. The notification issued on Thursday, November 5

For central universities and other centrally funded higher education institutions, the decision for reopening of campuses has been left to the Vice-Chancellors and heads. However, for state universities and colleges, the respective state governments will have to take a call, the guidelines said. It adds: “For centrally funded higher education institutions, the head should satisfy herself or himself regarding the feasibility of opening of physical classes and decide accordingly,”.

“For all other institutions including state universities, private universities, and colleges, opening of physical classes to be done as per the decision of the respective state governments. The universities and colleges shall only be allowed to open if they are outside the containment zones. Further, students and staff living in containment zones will not be allowed to attend the colleges,” they said.

 The universities and colleges have been asked to plan the opening of campuses in a phased manner, with such activities that adhere to COVID-19 norms including social distancing, use of face masks and other protective measures.  Students and staff shall also be advised not to visit areas falling within containment zones. The faculty, staff and students of the university and college should be encouraged to download ‘Aarogya Setu App’, they said.

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