Oct 26, Colombo: The University Grants Commission (UGC) says it has decided to reopen universities in batches.

University Grants Commission Chairman Prof. Sampath Amaratunga said that permission has been granted to resume university studies at any given date for the students who completed the 14-day period after the second COVID vaccine and health guidelines had been issued to all Vice Chancellors.

As for the first phase of the program, the UGC had decided to summon only 25 percent of the university’s student capacity. Priority will be given to examinations and practical training, said its Chairman Prof. Sampath Amaratunga.

The decision was taken at a special discussion on the reopening of universities with the participation of all Vice Chancellors, Health Divisions and the University Grants Commission.

According to the chairman, 90% of university students have been vaccinated. He also stated that only students who have been vaccinated completely for more than 14 days after receiving the second vaccine against Covid can be called to universities.

The Chairman says that students of medical colleges and allied health faculties are not subject to these conditions.