Odisha Allows Reopening Of Laboratories In Universities, Colleges

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Friday allowed reopening of laboratories at higher educational institutions- universities and colleges across the State.

As per a letter issued by the Higher Education Department, the laboratories in universities and colleges can be opened only for research scholars (Ph.D), M.Phil and Post Graduate students in science and technology streams.

“The Higher Educational Institutions are permitted to open laboratories only for research scholars, M.Phil and PG students in science and technology streams requiring laboratory/ experimental works,” the Higher Education Department letter read.

Moreover, the Higher Education department has issued clear instructions to all universities and colleges to ensure that all COVID-19 guidelines and protocols of the Centre and State government are duly adhered to.

Apprehending a possible second COVID-19 wave in December, the Odisha government had earlier announced not to reopen schools in the state for the remaining period of the year.

As per the official notification, Odisha government had said that all schools and other educational institutions in the State would remain closed till December 31, 2020 due to COVID-19 pandemic situation.

However, after a directive from the Centre recently, Odisha government allowed reopening of medical colleges in the State from December 1.