UGC issues guidelines for reopening schools and colleges

On Thursday, November 5, the University Grants Commission (UGC) issued guidelines for the resumption of universities and colleges across the nation "in a sequential manner".

The new guidelines issued by UGC permits the universities and colleges outside the containment zone to reopen after due consultation with the respective State/UT Governments. However, students along with the other staff living in containment zones will not be permitted to attend the colleges.

Moreover, the notice stated that the guidelines have been authorized after approval by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs and Union Health Ministry. Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank has taken to Twitter to announce the same.

गृह मंत्रालय द्वारा COVID-19 महामारी के कारण लगे लॉकडाउन को धीरे-धीरे खोलने की प्रक्रिया के अनुरूप विश्वविद्यालयों और कॉलेजों को फिर से खोलने के लिए यूजीसी विस्तृत दिशानिर्देश जारी कर रहा है। @ugc_india @PIB_India @EduMinOfIndia @DDNewsHindi @HMOIndia @MoHFW_INDIA pic.twitter.com/CBtqPw5GK0

— Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank (@DrRPNishank) November 5, 2020

The complete set of guidelines can be further accessed by clicking on the UGC link. However, some of the key features of the guidelines are:

• Social Distancing of at least six feet to be followed.
• Use of face masks to be made mandatory.
• The institutions must ensure appropriate sanitization and disinfection process and procedures.
• Classrooms and other Learning Sites should ensure proper sanitization at all learning sites. Cleaning and regular disinfection (using 1 per cent sodium hypochlorite) of frequently touched surfaces (doorknobs, elevator buttons, handrails, chairs, benches, washroom fixtures, etc.) to be made mandatory in all classrooms, laboratories, (and also) lockers, parking areas, other common areas etc. before the beginning of classes and at the end of the day. Teaching materials, computers, laptops, printers, shall be regularly disinfected with 70 per cent alcohol swipe.