Unconcerned about slow 2G, SKUAST-K invites online applications for UG courses

Srinagar:  At a time when the world is fighting against COVID-19, Sher-I-Kashmir University of Agricultural Science and Technology, Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has invited online applications for 2020 admissions.

To contain the spread of novel coronavirus, the government has closed all educational institutions and postponed all examinations.

However, the SKUAST-K issued a notice, inviting online admissions in various undergraduate and postgraduate courses for the session 2020.

“Online applications are invited from (i) permanent resident/ domicile of Jammu & Kashmir/ Ladakh UT ii) Residents of the Other States and Union Territories (iii) Foreign Nationals and (iv) Non-Resident Indian (NRI) – Non-Resident Indian Sponsored (NRIs) candidates; for admission to Undergraduate and Master’s Degree programs in various disciplines for the Academic Session 2020 through University website: www.skuastkashmir.ac.in,” reads the three-page notice.

 The admission process will commence from April 18 and the last date of form submission is May 18. The varsity has also announced they would hold entrance examinations in June.  

 “With extremely low-speed internet, we cannot apply and submit documents online. We cannot visit the internet kiosks because of lockdown,” said Asrar, whose brother intends to seek admission.

Shahid Ahmad, another aspirant, said they can’t submit forms and fees amid lockdown. “Who will go to the bank to submit examination fees amid lockdown,” he asked.

An official of the SKUAST-K said that varsity has 1000 seats in different courses. At least 820 seats are for candidates of J&K and Ladakh and rest are reserved for other countries, the official said.

“Many would not have the e-banking facility. They have to visit banks creating the unnecessary crowd and risking their lives,” he added.

SKUAST-K Registrar, Dr. Masood Ul Haq said they are conscious about the situation and students need not worry because they would be lenient in extending dates.

“Students who have internet connections available can apply. This will ease out rush on the website. Every student will get ample opportunity to apply for various courses,” he added.