New Delhi: Even as student protests escalate over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) has written to Vice-Chancellors and directors of higher education institutions nationwide, urging them to counsel students to remain focused on their studies - adding that they should not allow their 'energies to be diverted by calls to protest'.The advisory, issued on July 21 and signed by AIU President Professor Vinay Kumar Pathak, comes in response to recent concerns surrounding national-level entrance tests like NEET-UG - that have led students across several campuses to stay away from classes.Also Read: NEET protest expands: Students and job aspirants unite at Jantar Mantar over exam delays"Students deserve guidance, not uncertainty. I urge all member universities to support them with empathy and keep them focused on their academic journey", Pathak said in his communication titled "Appeal to encourage students to remain focused on their studies and to repose faith in the ongoing strengthening of the examination system'.Also Read: Salman Khan backs students' protest, says education should stay above politics