The State Government has asked schools and colleges across the city to reschedule their examinations amid the Coronavirus outbreak. They have further said that schools and other public places like gardens, malls, theatres etc. should be shut down. However, Mumbai University (MU) has refused to reschedule its exams and have asked the affiliated colleges to conduct exams as per schedule.
Also Read: Coronavirus Outbreak: Dos and Don'ts That one should follow
An MU spokesperson stated that the state government has stated that while schools and colleges need to remain shut, practicals and exams should be conducted as per schedule. They have given the same order to the institutes and also told them to ensure that only those students who have exams on a particular day should be allowed on campus. He further said that the university has also sent out a list of precautionary measures for residential colleges. Since students will also be staying in large numbers under the same roof, they have requested colleges and hostel authorities to ensure all norms of hygiene are followed.
Common Entrance Test (CET) examinations for Masters of Business Administration (MBA) were held on March 14 and 15 wherein the exam centres ensured that they were duly following hygiene and safety measures, as over 1.10 lakh students appeared for the exam over two days. However, over thousands of students from St. Xaviers College signed a petition wherein they have asked the authorities to reschedule the exams. Some students who are appearing for their International English Level Testing System (IELTS) exams are also requesting to reschedule it.
Also Read: With 32 positive cases, Maharashtra worst hit in India
As a precautionary measure, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued a notice to shut down institutes, theatres, swimming pools, parks, malls, gyms etc. across the city.
Update: Environment and Tourism Minister Aaditya Thackeray announced that all institutes and universities will be on temporary closure March 31. Earlier in the day, Rajesh Tope, state Health Minister too had shared they have asked the Universities to postpone all exams.