The vice-chancellors of the public universities have agreed to take online classes during the coronation. However, no test will be taken online. When the university opens, examinations and practical classes will be taken.
The decision was taken at a virtual meeting of the vice-chancellors of 47 public universities with the University Grants Commission (UGC) on Thursday.
However, the vice-chancellors also pointed out some problems in taking online classes. They said that not all teachers and students have laptops. Students can also connect to smartphones as an alternative to laptops. However, not all students have smartphones. Internet speed is very low in rural and remote areas, not all places have an internet connection. Internet prices are also not low, which is not affordable for all students. And not all teachers are accustomed to taking virtual classes.
The Vice-Chancellors proposed to provide free internet for the students. In view of this, it was decided that a letter would be sent to the Ministry of Education to arrange a ‘special internet package’ for the students. In addition, each university will provide necessary training to teachers from their own ICT cells. Teachers will take classes through the Zoom or Google Classroom apps. In addition, universities will be assisted by UGC’s BDREN project.
UGC Chairman Prof. Kazi Shahidullah told reporters,” the meeting was convened to discuss how to protect students from the irreparable damage being done to education during the Corona period. We have agreed that universities will start online classes soon. Tests and practical tests will be taken if the situation is normal. Students need a special internet package. For this, I have given a letter to the Ministry of Education once. A letter will be sent to the ministry again to take effective steps in this regard.”
