University, colleges torn between Covid test and negative certificate

BHUBANESWAR: Even as universities and degree colleges gear up to welcome students on Monday after a gap of nine months, the authorities concerned are unsure about whether they should make them undergo a Covid-19 test or simply ask them to furnish aCovid-negative report before letting them in.
While two universities are planning to allow only students with Covid-negative reports, the others are undecided. Two other universities are planning to seek a self-declaration of Covid-19 symptoms, if any, from the students. Some professors argued that it is not feasible to compel the students to carry the Covid test report.
Rama Devi Women’s University and Ravenshaw University authorities have already asked their students to furnish a Covid negative report before entering the campus. Though the Utkal University has also asked the students to do the same, it is trying to set up a camp for the Covid test of students who fail to submit the Covid negative report.
“Students hailing from the tribal and remote pockets of the state may face difficulties in arranging for the test. We cannot stop a student from attending classes for not carrying a Covid test report. Having said that, the government guidelines on Covid-19 will be strictly followed on the campus,” a senior professor said.
Deepak Kumar Behera, vice-chancellor of Sambalpur University, said, “We will discuss the matter with the chief district medical officer and the district collector before reaching a final decision.” Prafulla Kumar Mohanty, vice-chancellor of Khallikote University, said talks are on.
“Our first priority will be to follow the guidelines of the government on Covid-19. After that, we will ensure that the infection does not spread on the campus. If we suspect any student of having caught the virus, we will not allow him/her on the campus,” he assured.
Berhampur University authorities said they will not force students to carry Covidnegative reports and adhere to the rules of maintaining social distance in classrooms, among others. “We will allot a single room to one student and provide food at different times in batches to ensure that adequate social distance is maintained. We will hold classes in spacious classrooms,” he added.
Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanja Deo University (formerly North Odisha University), Baripada, and GM University Sambalpur will seek self-declaration from students on their Covid status or any symptoms.
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