Canteen, shops at colleges to remain shut: Mumbai University's reopening SOPs

Colleges have also been told to continue with online classes

Mumbai University has brought out the much-awaited standard operating procedures on in-person classes for its affiliated colleges spread across many districts. Individual colleges will now need to consult with their local bodies on starting physical classes for senior college students. The varsity has also urged the civic bodies within its jurisdiction to guide its affiliated colleges. As per the SOPs, canteens and shops on college premises must remain shut.

Last week, the state government announced the reopening of colleges from October 20. In a government resolution (GR), it said the final decision will rest with individual universities and their respective local civic bodies. Earlier, mid-day had reported how city colleges were waiting for SOPs from the university to begin preparations. Nearly 800 colleges in Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai, Raigad and Palghar are affiliated with the Mumbai University.

Workers sanitise a classroom at SIES College, Sion. File pic

As per the SOPs issued by MU, even as lectures in offline mode can begin, cafeteria or canteens in colleges shall remain closed along with any shops on campus such as for stationery items. College principals will have to keep a record of vaccination of staff, students and teachers, having copies of vaccination certificates. All have been encouraged to instal Aarogya Setu app on their phones. The college administration must ensure the presence of a medical practitioner on campus during work hours. Colleges must stick to a combined module of physical and online teaching.

Sources said the varsity administration issued the SOPs following a meeting with college representatives on October 15. A circular issued by the Mumbai University Registrar Sudhir Puranik said, "All affiliated colleges have been informed to begin planning for reopening of colleges from October 20 by adhering to all COVID related protocol." It also suggests colleges consult with local civic administration on understanding COVID conditions in the locality before taking a final decision on reopening as well as on holding special vaccination drives for those who are yet not fully vaccinated.

Colleges now have the challenge of compiling a list of vaccinated, non-vaccinated and partially-vaccinated people. They will also need manpower to take the next step. Their other concern is that many students are out of town and will need to be informed accordingly.

Highlights from the SOPs

>> Only those colleges/campuses/educational institutions are allowed to be opened where local authorities have not imposed any containment restrictions
>> Students/staff living in containment zones can't attend physical classes
>> Officers and staff/visitors/students to be encouraged to install Aarogya Setu app on phone
>> Vaccination certificates of staff, faculty, students and other associated personnel should be submitted to the principal's office for record-keeping
>> Any shops, stalls, cafeteria/canteen etc., outside and within the campus premises shall remain closed
>> Combined instructional module of physical and online teaching should be followed
>> Extra-curricular activities like sports may be allowed where physical distancing is feasible. Contact sports should be avoided. Swimming pools, wherever applicable, shall remain closed
>> Cultural activities should be avoided
>> It is strongly recommended that the college management ensures the availability of a medical practitioner on campus during work hours

15
Day of this month when MU met with college officials

800
Approx. no. of colleges affiliated with MU