Chennai: As the colleges for final year UG students were reopend in Tamilnadu today almost after eight months of being shut, students who were willing to attend the classes made their way to the higher educational institutions today.
The students were given hand sanitiser and were allowed inside the college premises after thermal scanning.
Hema, a student said, “Though I am a little scared about the virus. I wanted to come and attend the college. If things go out well, I will continue to come, else will opt for online classes. Initially, attending online classes was difficult, but now I have got used to it. Most of the syllabus has been completed. Now we are getting ready for the exams.”
Venkatraman, professor from an engineering college, said, “We have made all the necessary arrangements according to the standard operating procedure issued by the State government. We are creating awareness among the students as well. At present we are planning to allow only 50 per cent of the students.”
Meanwhile, a few students rued lack of trains and crowded bus services have made it difficult for them to reach colleges.
“Suburban trains are not being operated. Most of the buses are crowded and it is difficult to get in. With the incessant rains, many roads are also not usable. It would be better if government permits students to use the train,” said Gnanesh, a student.
It may be noted that the State government said even though the colleges are reopened, the attendance has been kept optional. Colleges would continue online classes for the students who cannot or do not wish to attend the classes physically.
The guidelines and SOPs as released in regards safety measures would be followed. Hostels with limited capacity are also allowed to reopen from today. The students, however, are advised to check with the respective hostels to understand the rules and guidelines that need to be followed. Students who have relatives near the college have been advised to stay there.
Government has said that classes will held for six days in a week. Chief Minister K Palaniswami had announced the decision to reopen last Monday.