On Tuesday, the University Grants Commission (UGC) denounced false news about test recommendations that was circulating on different platforms.

The official statement said that in light of the news circulated in print and digital media, it is clarified that UGC has not yet released any recommendations on review recently, and the news is wrong. The clarification was announced in an official note by the commission.

The official notice by UGC read: “It has come to the commission’s notice that incorrect news regarding UGC guidelines on examination has been published in some print and digital media. UGC had issued guidelines on examination and academic calendar from time to time during last year. Further, UGC notification issued on May 6 has requested the universities to keep the offline exams in abeyance during the month of May 2021.”

On Monday, the commission urged all higher education institutions (HEIs) to form a COVID task force and helplines to assist students and teachers affected by the pandemic.

The varsities have been oriented to encourage COVID-appropriate behaviour, such as hand sanitization, mask wear, soap cleaning, and keeping social distance.

The UGC had previously requested that no offline exams be held in May 2021 by all higher educational institutes (HEIs). On its official website, the commission sent a circular about the announcement. It is also recommended that HEIs evaluate the local requirements for administering online tests.

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