Varsities mull reopening hostels partially
Iqbal added the dearth of planning by the administration was causing losses of between Rs12 million and Rs15 million to ATH every year even though the hospital has enough space to construct hostels for doctors. PHOTO: EXPRESS
With educational institutions set to reopen later this month, universities are considering only partially allowing their residential blocks to welcome students back owing to novel coronavirus considerations.
This was discussed during an online meeting of 150 vice-chancellors and rectors representing universities from across the country on Wednesday.
Universities across the country had been closed in March along with other educational institutions as part of measures to curb the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) from spreading. However, with the number of virus cases falling, the government has decided to reopen educational institutions from September 15.
During the Vice-Chancellors Committee Meeting on Wednesday, options on reopening issues were discussed, including staggering of courses, hybrid classes, class attendance, the opening of hostels, management of transport services, health monitoring on campus, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for student safety.
Higher Education Commission (HEC) Chairman Dr Tariq Banuri advised the university heads to announce a policy well in time clearly and unambiguously.
Some participants demanded that VCs should be given the flexibility in choosing the model which would best suit the particular conditions on their campuses.
There was an active discussion on reopening hostels and organising transportation with proper safety protocols. Some universities, it was discussed, may have to reduce the number of students which can be accommodated in hostels.
Depending on their situation, varsities may have to restrict residencies and prioritise students with higher needs, such as final year students, students who are facing internet connectivity issues at home, students who require access to practical work or laboratories, or first-year students.
Those universities with entirely residential setups may need to limit the interaction of their resident students with outsiders.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 3rd, 2020.