Varsities & Colleges Can Conduct Classes, Exams In Offline & Blended Mode; Check Latest UGC Circular

In view of considerable improvement in the Covid-19 situation across the country, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has released an important circular regarding the re-opening of Universities and Colleges post the pandemic-induced lockdown.

In a letter to the vice-chancellors of all universities and principals of colleges, the UGC has stated that the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) may open campuses while keeping in mind the Covid-19 situation in their respective regions.

On conduct of classes and exams, UGC Secretary Ranish Jain said, “Higher Education Institutes may open campus; conduct classes and examinations in offline/ online/ blended mode following Covid appropriate behaviour and necessary protocols/guidelines/directions/ advisories issued by Central/State governments or competent authorities from time to time.”

It is pertinent to mention here that several state governments have already announced the reopening of schools and colleges following a sharp drop in Covid-19 cases.

Earlier, most of the education institutions in different parts of the country, including Odisha were closed in the wake of the steep rise in Covid infections, triggered by the new Omicron variant, during the third wave of Covid-19. Schools and colleges in Odisha have reopened from February 7. However, the physical mode of teaching for students of Classes 1 to 6 will start from February 28.