Press Release
Covid-19 Pandemic
Universities will continue to operate as per HEC Guidelines
Islamabad, February 26, 2021: The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has clarified that all universities will continue to operate as per guidelines issued by the HEC earlier. The recent announcement of the Ministry of Federal Education & Professional Training is about resumption of a regular school week of 5 days for urban centers of Karachi, Hyderabad, Lahore, and Peshawar. Earlier schools in these cities were restricted to a 3-day school week by NCOC in view of a high prevalence of COVID-19. NCOC has removed these restrictions following a fresh assessment of the prevailing situation in these cities.
It is reiterated that all HEIs will continue academic and research operations in accordance with the relevant instructions already provided by the HEC in the following Covid-19 guidance notes:
- HEC Policy Guidance Note # 8; Further Guidance w.e.f. November 26, 2020
https://www.hec.gov.pk/english/HECAnnouncements/Documents/nCoVirus/Further-Guidance-HEIs.pdf
- Strategy for Gradual Opening of HEIs, revised Sep 2, 2020
https://www.hec.gov.pk/english/HECAnnouncements/Documents/nCoVirus/Reopening-of-HEIs.pdf
Health and safety guidelines communicated by the HEC or prescribed by the Government should be implemented strictly and will remain effective until and unless modified. Universities are advised to seek further guidance, if required from the Chair or the provincial/regional members of the Covid-19 Oversight Committee or email at mgbhatti@hec.gov.pk.