THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Colleges in the state will reopen on January 4. The Department of College Education has issued guidelines for this. Classes will begin in the first phase for undergraduate in the fifth and sixth semesters as well as for postgraduate students.

Classes will be arranged with an emphasis on topics that could not be included in practical learning and online learning. Classes are limited to less than 50 per cent of students at a time. The number of students in each college should be calculated and the principals can arrange for shifts if necessary. Saturdays will be working days. Working hours are 8.30 am to 5.30 pm. Attendance will not be mandatory for the time being.

Hostel messes can be opened. Physical distancing must be maintained in the dining hall. The mask should also be mandatory. Thermal screening is not mandatory. These settings should be reviewed after 10 days.

Prior to this, teachers and non-teaching staff should arrive at the colleges on December 28. Major procedures such as the sanitation of classrooms should be done on that day.