Mysuru: After an unscheduled seven-and-a-half month hiatus, the University of Mysore (UoM) is all set to reopen on Tuesday, but just as the world is not the same in the aftermath of the pandemic, nor will life on the campus be: Libraries and canteens will remain closed as a precautionary measure to avoid crowding and thereby prevent transmission of the novel coronavirus.
Principals of all colleges affiliated to UoM have been asked not to organise cultural fests or hold any activities associated with the National Service Scheme (NSS). The standard operating procedure mandates wearing of masks and face shields, while students unwilling to come to the colleges can opt for online classes, in the event of which, they will still be given attendance.
UoM registrar R Shivappa pointed out that classes were resuming only for students in the final semesters of their respective programmes – sixth semester for undergraduate students and fourth semester in the case of postgraduate courses – from Tuesday. “Students have been asked to bring water and food from home,” Shivappa said.
UoM authorities said that in order to ensure compliance to SoP, a task force comprising students would be constituted in all colleges, whereas all students and staff will have to present a medical certificate affirming that they are not infected with Covid-19.
Although students are eager to return, there are apprehensions on undergoing an RTPCR test, and getting the results in time for the resumption of classes. “I am not too sure of getting the results of my report since most government institutions are not working on account of Deepavali. Attending online classes is not the same as being in the classroom,” said Sahana, a final year BA student in Mysuru.