Varanasi: Banaras Hindu University (BHU) has suspended all classes till March 31 following the advisory on ‘social distancing measures to stop spread of COVID-19 disease’ issued by the union ministry of health and family welfare.
In its advisory, the ministry has suggested many interventions like closure of all educational establishments, gyms, museums, cultural and social centres, swimming pools and theatrs. The students should be advised to stay at home, and online education to be promoted. Possibility of postponing examinations may be explored. Ongoing examinations to be conducted only after ensuring physical distance of one meter among students.
According to BHU spokesperson Rajesh Singh, in light of the advisory classes in the university/colleges will remain suspended. All indoor/outdoor sports activities will remain suspended. Gym, museums, cultural and social centres, swimming pools and theatres in the university may be closed.
Future examinations may not be organized till further orders. Meetings, as far as feasible, will be done through video conferences. Minimize or reschedule meetings involving large number of people unless necessary. Shops at Vishwanath Temple where there is always a large gathering of people will remain closed till March 31.
Every head of the offices is required to exhibit Do’s and Don’ts at all prominent places. Residents of the campus are requested to keep already planned weddings to a limited gathering, postpone all non-essential social and cultural gatherings.
Sir Sunderlal Hospital, Trauma Centre and health centres are required to follow necessary protocol related with COVID-19 management as prescribed and restrict family/friends/children visiting patients in hospitals. Hygiene and physical distancing may be maintained. Shaking hands and hugging as a matter of greeting to may be avoided. Essential services of the university will run as usual.
