(Photo: IC)

In some universities, students are reportedly obliged to download and use various apps in many situations such as getting hot water and even doing exercises.

An inspection in March by the ministry found that 89 out of 100 universities have fewer than five apps. Nevertheless, some universities have developed and introduced more than 20 apps, which has created problems for some students and teachers, Lei said.

The campaign will intensify management of the development of campus apps, requiring that the development of apps by university administrative departments or teachers must be approved by the universities. The number of the apps for a university is strictly limited, according to Lei.

An app should come into use after soliciting opinions from students, teachers and students' parents as well as obtaining the consent of the leadership of the university.

The third-party app developers must sign data safety agreements with the universities before collecting personal information via the apps, Lei added.