The institutions of higher education began on Monday with poor attendance. In majority of the colleges attendance was around 30 to 40 per cent. After the lockdown since March 22, the colleges were directed to open from February 15.
It is obvious that the students in science stream will be more interested in attending the college, because practicals are involved. This is followed by Commerce stream. Those in Arts stream can manage without attending the colleges.
The formula of on-line and off-line classes has also resulted in students preferring on-line classes. The second major reasons for the students preferring on-line classes, is non-availability of hostels for them. Those coming from rural or semi-urban areas are reluctant to attend the classes. Besides the distance lesser facilities for public transport also is a major hurdle. Authorities at major science, commerce and arts colleges stated that the attendance is likely to improve. Recent hike in Corona-19 cases has also affected the attendance.
The instructions of classes for 50 per cent of the students at a time, has also posed problems for the college authorities and also the students. Some colleges have prepared for 50 per cent attendance of the students. They will be allowed to attend on alternate days. At the same time the same lecture will be available on-line for rest of the students simultaneously. This is being followed to save time and duplication and work load of the teachers.
It was proposed that the students should be allowed in the college premises only for practicals. Classes for final year students may be started first, followed by other classes. This will ensure early declaration of results of final year students and help them in going for further higher studies or search for jobs. Despite efforts by the school and higher education authorities, starting regular classes is difficult. However, solutions to the problem will have to be worked out.
