The University Grants Commission (UGC) has given the authority to vice chancellors of all universities to recommence academic activities for second and third-year students on a date of their choosing. UGC Chairman senior Prof. Sampath Amaratunga made this observation at a special media briefing of the Ministry of Higher Education yesterday (6). Accordingly, the universities may reopen for second and third-year students under health guidelines issued by the Government. However, the date of recommencement for first-year students has not been decided as of yet, owing to issues of hostels. Fourth-year university students have already commenced academic activities and their examinations commenced on 22 June.