Central Universities to be open for Scientific Research from October 15, Mentions Unlock 5.0 Guidelines

As per the new rules and regulations published by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on September 30, 2020, the Department of Higher Education is now granted permission to open academic institutions under strict guidelines of Unlock 5.0.

The students of the central universities, especially those who are from the science and technology streams requiring extensive use of laboratories and equipment may visit the universities from October 15 onwards. The rules might differ depending upon the pandemic situation in different states.

Additionally, the new unlock guidelines also says that the Department of Higher Education can fix the timing of the reopening of all educational institutions and colleges according to their preferences. Although, the final decision must be consulted with the MHA, keeping in mind the ongoing pandemic condition of that particular state. 

The guidelines also mentioned that the heads of Central institutes must make sure that there is a genuine requirement by Ph.D. and PG students to visit the labs. In this regard, the heads of those institutions must provide proof of the urgency or necessity. 

The ministry, in its guidelines, also stated that to compensate for the academic loss of this year 2020, colleges and higher educational institutes must emphasize the online learning module by the utmost possibility. 

Also Read | Punjab schools to reopen from Oct 15, Parents not keen on sending children to School amid Pandemic

Although MHA gives a nod to reopen the educational institutions, including the state, central universities, and other higher educational institutes, virtual learning will continue to be the preferred method of learning. 

The ministry, in its Unlock 5 guidelines, will also grant permission to the school authorities to reopen the same, depending upon the pandemic condition of the respective state. 

In an additional regulation of the Ministry of Home Affairs, the schools can be opened after October 15, and conduct face to face mode of teaching, only if the state and the ministry give permission, the guidelines of the ministry stated. 

Also Read | Puducherry Schools to Reopen for Classes 9-12 from October 5; Guidelines Here