BEIJING — China has rolled out arrangements to keep colleges and universities on alert against COVID-19 during the upcoming winter holiday.

Institutions of higher education nationwide should adjust their winter vacations in accordance with local epidemic situations and arrange for students to leave schools in batches in an orderly manner, according to a circular issued by the Ministry of Education.

It required colleges and universities to organize internships and job-seeking activities on the premise of ensuring the safety of all participants.

Schools should guide teachers and students to strengthen self-protection on their way home as well as tighten epidemic control on campuses during the vacation, said the circular.

It also called for a staggered opening of the spring semester to avoid the Spring Festival travel rush and prevent unnecessary gatherings.