Universities to resume from Monday: UGC

Universities in the national university system will resume normal academic activities from Monday, the University Grants Commission (UGC) said yesterday. 

Addressing the press, UGC Chairman Senior Prof. Sampath Amaratunge explained that the regulatory body had allowed the examinations of the third-year students of medical faculties to be held from the 15 July, gradually expanding the number of students allowed to attend university premises.

Prof. Amaratunge expressed satisfaction regarding lectures carried out via online platforms due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, stating that in spite of some challenges the effort had been largely successful. 

“Even though many students faced challenges in following lectures online, they were very eager to somehow follow lectures and not be behind in their studies,” he said.  He noted that even after the universities reopen, strict compliance to health guidelines must be ensured, pointing out that the UGC and university staff had been in close consultation with health authorities to implement the published public health guidelines.

Commenting on hostel facilities at universities, the UGC Chairman said that while a limited number of students were allowed to occupy hostels in line with COVID-19 regulations, students would be allowed to occupy hostels as per normal from Monday.