ISLAMABAD: Education Ministers have decided to close all education institutions including schools, colleges and universities in Pakistan starting 26th November all the way through 10th January, 2021 for on campus classes amid rising coronavirus cases in the country.
According to Federal Education Minister Shafqat Mahmood, the positivity rate of coronavirus cases has surged past 7 percent and it has been unanimously decided in the meeting of all education ministers to close all educational institutions including schools, colleges and universities in Pakistan till 10th January, 2021 for on campus classes.
However, schools will continue to provide online classes were possible till 25th December after which winter vacations have been declared till 10th January, 2021.
Furthermore, The federal education minister said that PhD students will be allowed in universities and hostels can operate at one-third capacity.
Schools Closed in Punjab
The Provincial Education Minister Murad Raas also announced closure of all educational institutes including schools, colleges and universities in Punjab starting 26th November through 10th January, 2021.
The education minister said that if schools are closing, then all recreational activities should also be closed in order to curb the spread of coronavirus among children.
Furthermore, the minister said that teachers will only be called to schools twice a week at half capacity to ensure proper implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Examinations Postponed
Federal Education Minister Shafqat Mahmood stated that all examinations scheduled for December have been postponed. “Exams will commence from January 15, 2021” said Shafqat Mahmood.
Announcement for Medical Students
Entry exams such as MDCAT will be held on schedule as announced earlier. The clinical training of senior medical students will also continue as usual.
Read more: Pakistan may go into ‘complete lockdown’, PM Khan blames PDM.
