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:

1. HEC Policy Guidance Note # 8; Further Guidance w.e.f. November 26, 2020
https://www.hec.gov.pk/english/HECAnnouncements/Documents/nCoVirus/F
urther-Guidance-HEIs.pdf

2. Strategy for Gradual Opening of HEIs, revised Sep 2, 2020

https://www.hec.gov.pk/english/HECAnnouncements/Documents/nCoVirus/R
eopening-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.