Lockdown: UGC urges universities colleges to not force students to pay fee

NEW DELHI: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has received complaints in large numbers from students alleging that their universities and colleges are forcing them to pay the fee during the ongoing lockdown period. The commission has urged institutions to consider requests of students for relaxations and flexibility during the COVID 19 lockdown period.

As per a letter issued by the UGC on May 27, it has received grievances from the students and parents stating that universities and colleges are insisting upon immediate payment of annual or semester tuition fee or examination fee. “They have represented that due to the financial hardship being faced due to the lockdown, they are not in a position to make payment of fee,” it reads.

Alternative Fee Payment Options

The UGC has urged institutions to consider the matter related to fees “sympathetically” and offer alternative
payment options to students till the situation returns to normal. The UGC letter says: “If need be, the universities and colleges may also consider individual requests from students, received if any, concerning payment of fee, in a considerate manner, keeping in view the present COVID-I9 Pandemic.”

Earlier, on the recommendation of the expert committee to address the grievances of the students arising out of the coronavirus pandemic situation, the UGC has set up a helpline and has also created an email. It has also formed a task force to monitor the grievances.

The All India Council for Technical Education has also urged institutions to not force students to pay the fee during the ongoing lockdown period.

Also read:

• COVID-19: UGC sets up committee to report on exam delay by April 13
• Lockdown 2: IIT Madras starts free lectures series online

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