Advertisement

Updated April 20th, 2020 at 21:00 IST

Public and private universities in Odisha to resume functioning amid nationwide lockdown

The public and private universities in Odisha will resume functioning amid the nationwide lockdown. At the same time, several restrictions have been imposed

Reported by: Akhil Oka
Odisha
| Image:self
Advertisement

On Monday, Odisha became the first state to resume the normal functioning of universities amid the nationwide lockdown. In a letter to the Vice-Chancellors of all public and private universities in the state, the Odisha Higher Education Department has directed the resumption of educational activities with restrictions. Incidentally, the consolidated guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on April 15 stated that the educational institutions shall remain shut till May 3. However, the guidelines also stipulated that the institutions are expected to maintain their academic schedule via online teaching. Currently, there are 74 confirmed novel coronavirus cases in Odisha out of which 24 persons have recovered while one casualty has been reported. 

Read: Odisha Policeman Suspended For Entering Jagannath Temple Amid Lockdown

Read: People From Odisha Stranded In Other States To Be Put Under 14-day Quarantine After Their Return

The restrictions on the functioning of universities

First, the Odisha Higher Education Department has made it clear that the classes cannot be held in physical mode. While maintaining that no theory or practical exams will be held, it has directed the universities to ensure preparedness for conducting the exams at short notice. Meanwhile, students can neither live in the university hostel nor can they enter the department without valid permission. While field trips and trips shall be prohibited, seminars, conferences, etc. can be held online. Similarly, the PhD Viva-voce and pre-submission presentation in online mode are allowed.

Most importantly, all Group A(teaching and non-teaching staff) have to be physically present in the universities. On the other hand, only one-third of Group B, C, and D employees will have to attend to their official duty daily. A copy of the University Office Order in this regard must be sent to the local police and civil administration to facilitate the movement of permitted employees to and from the university. At the same time, it has been stressed that COVID-19 preventive measures such as social distancing, sanitization, compulsory use of masks, suspension of biometric attendance, etc. will have to be undertaken. 

Read: Walk-in Kiosk To Collect Coronavirus Samples Developed By ITI In Odisha's Cuttack

Read: Naveen Patnaik Announces Rs 100-crore Package For 4.5 Lakh Urban Poor Families In Odisha

Advertisement

Published April 20th, 2020 at 21:00 IST

Your Voice. Now Direct.

Send us your views, we’ll publish them. This section is moderated.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Trending Quicks

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Whatsapp logo