United News of India
New Delhi, Apr 13: Warning that the present situation might become the new normal post-lockdown, Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday told universities and other educational institutions to harness fully the power of technology to ensure continuity of academic calendar during the lockdown period.
“Ensure continuity of the teaching and learning process during lockdown by using technology,” he underlined while interacting with the Vice-Chancellors of Delhi, Puducherry, Punjab, Makhanlal Chaturvedi Universities and Director of the Indian Institute of Public Administration through a video conference.
Observing that the adversity caused by Coronavirus was forcing people to search for creative solutions, Mr Naidu appreciated the universities for taking adequate steps to ensure that the teaching-learning process was not hindered. Stating that online courses would supplement face-to-face learning, he said “this might become the new normal after we tide over the current crisis”.
Urging the institutions to reach out to students, Mr Naidu, who is the President of IIPA and Chancellor of three universities, asked them to promote collaborative learning and self-learning and optimally utilise technological tools for ensuring interactive learning for all students.
Since it might take some more time for normalcy to return, the Vice-President enquired about their plans to cope with the disruption caused by COVID-19 pandemic and emphasised the need for universities and educational institutions to take measures to safeguard the health of students residing in hostels.
He urged them to ensure strict adherence to social distancing and isolation instructions given by the Government and health experts.
He advised the students to follow healthy dietary habits, undertake regular physical exercise and avoid a sedentary lifestylebesides learn to live with nature.
Naidu also urged the universities to guide the students to utilise the time meaningfully and take advantage of the e-learning materials offered by them. He also wanted the students to spend less time on mobile phones and learn new languages during the lockdown period. Besides, they should also spend adequate time with family members.
The Vice-President also suggested to the students to join in social service activities taken up by NGOs in their respective areas.
He stressed the need for all citizens to strictly follow the guidelines issued by the government from time-to-time.
Secretary to the Vice-President, Dr I V Subba Rao was also present, an official release here said.
