LAHORE: As many as 725 public colleges have received more than 50,000 admission applications from students across Punjab for the intermediate, bachelors and associate degree programmes through the Online College Admissions System (OCAS)webportal.

The portal was developed by the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) for the Higher Education Department (HED).

As many as 725 colleges have received admission apphcadons on the portal for bachelors degree programme and intermediate till Nov 30 last. More than 37,000 applications have been received for FA, 30,000 for ICS, 27,000 for Pre-Medical, 10,000 for Pre-Engineering and 9,000 for ICOM.

It has been noted that girl students have mainly applied for FA and PreMedical whereas boys have shown keen interest in ICS and Pre-Engineering.

This year, OCAS initiated the online submission of the bachelor`s degree programme and has received more than 30,000 admission applications for BS program.

The OCAS is a repository for students to apply online in government colleges across Punjab without physically visiting theinstitutes. It has given students from the far-off areas a chance to apply online and save time while ensuring timely compilation of applications and merit lists.

The OCAS offers 24/7 access to students to apply and remain updated regarding admissions.

Students can access college brochures that are available online, and track the status of admission applications through the desired college website.

The system is currently receiving applications for intermediate.

This helps the students from far-fetched areas to apply online, saving them from the hassle of travelling while ensuring timely compilation of applications and merit lists.

PFA: The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) has discarded1,225kgfakehoney and unwholesome food during a crackdown on fake honey producing units in the provincial metropolis.

On Wednesday, the food safety team closed down a fake honey manuf acturing unit at Data Ganj Bakhsh Town and discarded 800kg of adulterated honey and 425kg raw material.

Further, the PFA has seized 80kg substandard sugar, 35kg glucose, five kilogram rose petal, five kilo hazardous chemicals, gas cylinder, packing material and empty bottles during the raid.