Following the decision by the federal government to expand the closure of educational institutes in COVID-19 hotspot areas, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) has clarified that all universities, with the exception of those in high-risk areas, will continue to function according to previous guidelines.
In a statement, the Commission said that institutes in high-risk areas identified by provincial governments will remain closed for physical inspection until April 11, 2021. During this time, however, academic sessions will be available online.
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According to the HEC, ongoing and pre-scheduled exams could be completed online while adhering to COVID-19 health and safety protocols.
The higher education body advised universities to follow the COVID-19 health and safety guidelines, which include thermal screening, facemasks, social distancing, the availability and use of sanitizers, and building disinfection.
Varsities have also been advised to contact the Chair or the COVID-19 Oversight Committee’s provincial/regional representatives, or email [email protected], for further clarification if and when required.
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On Wednesday, the federal government announced that educational institutes in COVID-19 hotspot areas, including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Multan, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Sargodha, and Sheikhupura in Punjab, Peshawar, Mardan, Charsadda, Swabi, Kohat, Malakand, Swat, Lower Dir, Nowshera, and Buner in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa