UGC directive on cleanliness

UGC directive on cleanliness 

Higher education institutions will have to spread the message of cleanliness not only to their students but also to residents in their neighborhood. They will also need to update their progress on social media.

A circular issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC), based on the instructions of the Ministry of Human Resource Development, says that colleges across the country will have to participate in the “Swachhta Pakhwada” between September 1 and 15. As part of the initiative, institutions have been directed to form a committee with teachers and students to organize events and ensure highest participation from the students community. They have also been asked to document all the activities and upload them on social networking sites.

The institutions have been given a 15-day activity plan that includes cleaning of hostels, campus, mess and roads leading to the respective institutions. They will need to conduct visits to nearby markets and hospitals to study the disposal of garbage and medical waste. Students have also been asked to participate in essay writing contests on topics pertaining to health and hygiene.

As a former member of the Academic Council and Faculty of Arts at Gauhati University, I believe the circular will draw a mixed response from colleges. We understand the importance of hygiene, but organizing events for a fortnight will eat into our academic year. 

Satish Kumar Sarma,

Kalyanpur,

Biswath Chariali.