PUTRAJAYA MAR 28: The Ministry of Higher Education has suggested that all public universities have to continue the second semester for 2019/2020 session as early as April 27, 2020 and the latest by June 1, 2020.
Higher Education Minister, Dato’ Dr. Noraini Ahmad said the decision was made in view of the extension of the Movement Control Order (MCO) until April 14, 2020.
“With the extension, the first semester for 2020/21 session is expected to start in mid-October 2020.
“The decision was made after considering many factors following a detailed discussion with all public universities and private universities’ representatives,” said Noraini in a statement here today (Mar. 28.Saturday).
Among the considerations taken were: a) current MCO and directives relating to the management of COVID-19; b) the location of local and international students where majority of them have gone back to their home towns and with families; c) security and welfare of students; d) the preparedness of public and private universities to implement online and other methods in teaching and learning; d) Hari Raya Aidil Fitri holidays expected on May 2020 , and e) the need to complete semester 2 for 2019/2020 session.
“Public universities are required to manage the movements of students back to campus in stages following the above factors,” said Noraini.
Meanwhile, private universities could continue the existing semester and starts the new semester following the academic calendar besides considering the above factors.
All public and private universities are to notify local and international students on the amendments made in the academic schedule.
The Ministry will notify all universities should there be any amendment or update to this suggestion that is linked to the government’s decision on MCO.
“The Ministry is very concerned about the welfare of students both in the public and private universities and will continue to accept any report on their whereabouts especially those staying in campus.
“The report will enable a student to get the necessary aid she/he needs,” Noraini reiterated.-Malaysia World News.
