UGC’s move would hurt students

In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) initial to decision to shut down all institutions of higher education and continue classes online was a commendable one.

But for the UGC to now go back on their earlier decision and say that all online exams and admissions should be halted at this time is counter-productive, and is a decision that needs to be revised.

First of all, delaying all exams in this manner will only make a bad situation worse -- by causing session jams, leading to millions of students across the country unable to carry on with their education, leaving them essentially in limbo until the lockdown is lifted.

As it stands, we do not yet have a clear idea on the extent to which the virus has spread in our respective communities, and making any bold assumptions regarding when the lockdown will be lifted would be nothing short of a fool’s errand.

For the UGC to now go on and criticize universities for going ahead with their initial plan and be “better friends of the students” not only speaks of the UGC’s hypocrisy, but such a decision will invariably stain the intent of universities across the country trying to ensure that the river of education continues flow strong even in these troubling times.

The UGC must understand that taking exams is an integral part of online education, and universities across the country have invested heavily to ensure that, even with the lockdown, students continue to stay engaged in their education -- an education they have paid for and deserve.

This will not ensure timely completion of semesters, but sticking to the routine will contribute greatly to their overall mental well-being.

In fact, the UGC would do well to understand that this is a shining example of what Digital Bangladesh stands for, and to not take advantage of the great strides we have made in digital communications would be a step backwards.