Classes and internal examinations in all public and private medical colleges in Bangladesh will be suspended from Tuesday, March 10. The decision was taken by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare at a meeting on Monday, March 9.
Professor Dr. Nazmul Hossain, Director General of the Directorate General of Medical Education, confirmed the decision. He told the media that classes and internal exams will remain suspended until the Eid al-Fitr holidays end. Medical colleges will resume normal academic activities after the holiday period.
He also said that decisions on examinations at medical universities will be taken by the universities themselves.
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The move follows a wider government decision to close all universities across the country. Authorities say the measure aims to reduce electricity and fuel use during the ongoing war situation in the Middle East.
Earlier, universities were ordered to begin Eid-ul-Fitr holidays early from Monday, March 9. The Ministry of Education announced the directive on Sunday, March 8.
According to the ministry, Bangladesh must conserve electricity and fuel during the current global crisis. Officials and employees in public and private universities were also asked to ensure responsible energy use.
Medical colleges had continued classes and examinations even after the university closure decision. However, the Health Ministry has now decided to suspend those activities as well.
Universities and medical colleges are expected to reopen and resume normal schedules after the Eid-ul-Fitr holiday period ends.