The government will take a call on re-opening of colleges on April 14 after reviewing the coronavirus situation in the country, Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ said on Sunday.
In an interview to PTI, he said the safety of students and teachers is of utmost importance to the government and his ministry is prepared to ensure there is no academic loss to students if colleges needed to remain shut beyond April 14.
“It is difficult to take a decision at the moment. We will review the situation on April 14 and a decision will be taken on whether schools and colleges can be reopened now or have to be closed for more time,” Pokhriyal said.
“There are 34 crore students in the country, more than America’s population. They are our biggest treasure. Safety of students and teachers is of utmost importance,” he added.
There have been indications from the government that the lockdown may not be extended. However, classes in colleges were already suspended before the lockdown was announced.