In an effort to help students learn new skills and gain knowledge during this lockdown, UGC has decided to issue guidelines for online internship programmes.

he University Grants Commission has asked universities across the country to make sure that students have proper guidance while opting for online internships during this lockdown period. They want students to utilise this time to learn new skills and gain experience in their choice of field so that they are better prepared for the future, after this lockdown is over.

In a new notice issued by UGC, they have asked universities to make required arrangements for students who want to take up work from home internships during their time at home. These internships will be conducted through digital modes to ensure that the students are safe and don’t have to leave their homes.

The circular issued by the UGC is in continuation with the notice they issued regarding the examination conduction amid the current covid-19 lockdown.

In the notice, the UGC has issues guidelines for the universities which might help them enrol their students into work from home internships, with proper safety. The guidelines are as follows-

• Allow the students to take up ‘online internships/ activities’ including the activities that can be carried out digitally or otherwise from home
• Engage them to work as interns on ongoing projects
• Delay the start date of internship
• Reduce the period of internship clubbing with assignments etc.

These steps are being taken by the UGC because of the ongoing covid-19 pandemic. Going out for internships will lead to the violation of restrictions imposed by the current lockdown, and will also lead to the risk of spreading the virus further.

The notice further stated,” As per the letter, it was made clear that the guidelines are advisory in nature and the Universities may accordingly plan their activities keeping in view the safety and interest of our stakeholders, giving highest priority to health of all concerned, while adopting and implementing the Guidelines.”

All educational institutes have been shut down due to the ongoing pandemic. Schools and colleges will remain closed till further notice as the lockdown has been extended till May 17. The dates for several recruitment and admission entrance exams will also be updated after the lockdown is over.

Respected Source – IndiaToday