Uttarakhand Government issues SOP for reopening of colleges from December 15
From December 15 onwards, all higher educational institutions in the state will be able to conduct studies offline after a gap of nearly 10 months. However, all the students have to undergo RTPCR test before coming to classes. Also, written consent of the parents has to be given to the college before the college opens.
The Department of Higher Education has issued its SOP on Friday after getting permission from the Cabinet to open the college. According to the SOP issued by Principal Secretary Anand Vardhan, priority will still be given to online studies.
Nevertheless, given the imperative of practice, first semester and final semester students in UG and PG will be able to come to college voluntarily from December 15. However, for this, their parents have to submit written consent to the college beforehand.
Theory classes will run online
According to SOP, the classes of theory will still continued to be taught online. Practicals of other classes will be conducted only after the experiment is successful in the first and final semester. Colleges can also use a virtual practical lab if needed.
SOP will be applicable in all colleges
The above order will be applicable to all government and private degree colleges in the state as well as engineering colleges, medical, para medical colleges. However, SOPs will be issued separately for Medical, Para Medical College.
It has been clarified in the SOP that along with students coming from outside states and residing in hostels, day scholars will also have to undergo RTPCR test. Also, the order mentioning action against principal, teachers, staff as well as students for violating Covid-19 rules is also recorded. In view of the convenience of the students, the colleges will be able to provide transport facility, but for this also the Covid Guideline has to be followed.
Increase section or use alternate day
In order the classes are given three options to follow social distancing. The college will be able to either increase the section, increase the shift or conduct classes on alternate days. Study time can be increased if required. Classes have to keep a distance of six feet between students. The colleges have also been asked to appoint a nodal officer for monitoring.
Sanitization and thermal scanning at the gate
Sanitation, handwash, thermal scanning facilities will be available at the gate itself. Not more than fifty percent have been asked to attend the college at one time. During this time field visits, educational tours or lectures of outsiders will be restricted. Colleges have also been asked to discourage exchange of books.
