I am proud of everyone at Symbiosis School of Banking and Finance (SSBF), who ensured that they made their way home in a safe and timely manner, especially considering the disruptions this has brought to our usual way of life. However, as a result there have also been many a query, and I hope to address most of them herein. We are living in times never before seen. While a pandemic threatens our way of life, we are also witnessing remarkable acts of heroism and humanity on a daily basis. Securing the safety of everyone around us starts with doing so with ourselves.
Shortly after the pandemic made its presence felt in India, it was imperative to ensure that our students, faculty and staff were all safe, and a lockdown of the entire campus was issued. I am proud of everyone at Symbiosis School of Banking and Finance (SSBF), who ensured that they made their way home in a safe and timely manner, especially considering the disruptions this has brought to our usual way of life. However, as a result, there have also been many a query, and I hope to address most of them herein.
Will the commencement of the new batch?
As of now, we are observing the lockdown from our own home, as the campus remains closed for all its residents and visitors. We are closely monitoring the situation, but as of now, there is no change in the dates of admission. Be rest assured, we will be informing all concerned parties regarding any change in schedule, via mail and our social media channels.
This also applies to the start of the new semester, slated for 1st June.
Are there any delays in placements?
Yes, some organisations have the placement and internship dates on hold, as a result of the ongoing scenario. However, the process will be resumed soon and the dates for the same have been communicated. In case of any further delay, the SSBF Placement Committee would take care of the process that needs to be followed.
Are regular classes and examinations still on?
The safety of our students and our staff has always been our topmost priority. To ensure the same in these prevailing circumstances, we have decided to cancel our regular classes and term-end exams. Students will be evaluated on a pro-rata basis, as per the guidelines from the Symbiosis International (Deemed) University.
While SSBF will continue to take all measures and steps necessary in the best interest of the safety of its students and faculty, I appeal to each and every one of us to also do our bit towards beating the pandemic. From following instructions from governing bodies to practising social distancing and basic steps to prevent transmission and infections.
In the meanwhile dear students – current and future ones – make the most of the time the circumstances have offered you. No, I’m not asking you to study (though it wouldn’t do any harm to brush up on your concepts), I mean pick up a new hobby or skill, work on your fitness or even learn a language!
Who knows, come the start of the new semester, you can contribute all the more to our annual events, committee or even earn some bragging rights among your peers! This extremely unfortunate situation also brings with it a silver lining – an opportunity to showcase our unity, band together and cooperate towards the collective good, and even a shot at self-improvement. The outcome depends entirely on our own choices.
At the end of the day, however, as much as you are capable, skilled future professionals – and I know I speak for the entire faculty when I say this – you are our children. And I look forward to seeing your cheery faces and welcome you all back on campus.
Dr. Manisha Ketkar, Director, Symbiosis School of Banking and Finance
