University students’ perspectives on resuming physical classes: Are they ready?

Students hanging around campus grounds | Source © easyuni.com

Undeniably, the pandemic has caused a shift in all sectors including education. Many countries over the globe have implemented online learning including Malaysia.

In the light of the country expecting to move towards an endemic phase in late October, higher education institutions are one of the main sectors which is part of the reopening of the country.

As announced by the Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad recently at a press conference, fully vaccinated university students and non-academic staff from all phases of the National Recovery Plan (NRP) may begin returning to campuses.

"This matter is subject to the capacity of the institutions, in compliance with the prescribed SOPs. This is a step towards creating a safe environment and herd immunity on campus," said Dr Noraini.

The resumption of physical classes after a year and a half of remote learning has been greeted by varying reactions from students themselves.

Melanie Ting Yih-Lin, a full time law student from Help University has mixed feelings on returning to campus.

“I am happy to hear that we are allowed to return to campus for hands-on experience but I am still hesitant as I would be putting myself and family at risk of being infected.”

Nisya Salsabila, a student from Taylor’s University added, “It is good that the campus is open to those who are fully vaccinated but I am worried that this would lead to new Covid-19 cases and I feel that the decision to ease restrictions again have been rushed.”

Kuah Chii Kuan, a student from Sunway University, said, “I do not wish to return for 100% physical classes as the pandemic has caused me to lose my main mode of transportation to attend classes in person.”

Students are expected to return beginning 15 October.