Universiti Malaya has clarified that the apparent U-turn over allowing students the option to continue with online classes was due to a misunderstanding.
This came after complaints by Universiti Malaya Students’ Union (UMSU) which called for more flexibility to accommodate students who may need to take up the option.
According to UMSU, the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences has already issued a statement on April 8 to allow the implementation of online classes for the semester.
However, it claimed that the statement was withdrawn the following day as a result of interference by the university administration.
The Universiti Malaya Corporate Communications office told Malaysiakini that this was due to a misunderstanding.
“The university administration was informed by the faculty of the incident and was told that a misunderstanding happened which resulted in such misinformation being published.
“We will ensure that measures are taken to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future,” it said in a written reply.
It added that the university regularly exchanges feedback with lecturers, staff, and students before a decision is implemented.
Short notice
Yesterday, UMSU said that notices for face-to-face classes should be issued before a semester begins to allow students to make initial preparations, such as searching for lodging.
UMSU claimed its leaders were told in a previous meeting that exceptions would be considered, but it has now been clarified that only international students with travel restrictions as well as students with health problems could apply for an exemption.
UM said that a notification letter was issued on March 23, the second week of the current semester, regarding the implementation of face-to-face classes starting from the eighth week of the semester, six weeks before its implementation.
It added that the notification letter was also publicised through the university’s official social media platforms on the third week of the semester.
“The university management has also agreed to provide accommodation assistance to students through the Student Affairs Division, especially those from B40 families.
“Students can apply online. Additional efforts to provide monetary assistance through zakat and welfare funds, learning devices, as well as food and personal needs, are also ongoing,” it said.
Flexibilities given
UM maintained that the implementation of face-to-face classes will take place from the eighth week onwards, but noted that certain flexibilities will be given depending on suitability.
“It is very important to note that the management has given flexibility to the respective faculties, academies and centres for university courses to be conducted online, in hybrid mode, or face-to-face, depending on the suitability.
“For Covid-19 cases and special circumstances, the university management, through the deans or directors of faculties, academies, centres, will allow exemption from the face-to-face mode, provided that an application is submitted with relevant supporting documents.
“The remote learning programme and programmes with international students, who have yet to be allowed into Malaysia due to several countries' closure of international gateways, will be conducted on a hybrid basis,” it added. - Mkini
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.