UGC permits honours, master’s final exams at private universities 

In a bid to solve the session jam, thereby securing students' future careers, the University Grants Commission (UGC) on Monday issued a set of seven guidelines, permitting honours and master's final year examinations and practical classes to be held at private universities. 

The guidelines issued by Dr Md Fakhrul Islam, UGC Private University Division director, were sent to all vice-chancellors and registrars of private universities in the country on Monday.

Under the guidelines, the universities will not be allowed to hold more than one exam and practical class under any programme in a single day.

The health directives issued by the Directorate General of Health Services and World Health Organization must be followed to the letter.  

More than 10 students will not be allowed to attend a practical class or exam in a classroom. 

The students can enter the campus only 30 minutes prior to the start of exams or practical classes as the case may be and must leave the compound 30 minutes after the exam/practical test is over. 

Where applicable, oral examinations must be taken online. 

A distance of six feet must be maintained in the exam halls or classrooms, and within campus premises as well. 

The universities in question must be prepared to take responsibility for the medical treatment of any faculty member, student or staff contractor who contracts the coronavirus during the course of the examinations or classes.