Ludhiana: PAU students boycotted online classes from Monday even though a few students of different colleges, including agriculture, attended classes. Students who boycotted online classes belong to basic sciences, community science, three sections of agriculture, horticulture, first and third year of food technology department and second year of biotechnology department.
Students had been requesting authorities to conduct offline classes. They said a few days ago, they were informed that their practicals would be conducted offline and theory classes would be conducted online. For that, they were told they would be called to the university but now the scenario looks different, they said, adding that they were confused and worried. We have requested authorities to look into the matter, they said.
“We want the best decision to be taken in the interest of all, keeping our problems in mind as online classes are not helping us in any way. Attendance is not regulated and students take classes lightly. There are many other problems like poor internet connection, which is one of the major problems faced by students and teachers. It is tough to bring the essence of a physical classroom in online ones. Students are ready to sign the consent letter and take all responsibility by following precautionary measures as per Covid-19 guidelines,” they said.
According to a student from food and technology, second year, “Almost all subjects are practical and professors share the youtube link and other teaching resources. They are putting in efforts but that is not always a solution for practical subjects.”
A student from basic sciences college said, “We have sent many mails to our professors and dean. They claim they are observing the Covid situation and they stated that they have less facilities of accommodation. Now, three to four students are living in one room but according to government guidelines, only two students can be accommodated.”
Dean, college of agriculture replied to a student in a mail stating, “ The holding of offline classes is already under review by higher authorities. A positive decision is expected. Please register in your own interest and not delay the registration process.”
Meanwhile VC Baldev Singh Dhillon told TOI, “ We will watch how the situation is developing and go by the government guidelines.”