SU is preparing for the partial re-opening of its campuses and residences under level 3 lockdown regulations. PHOTO: Stellenbosch University website
Stellenbosch University (SU) is currently preparing for the return of selected postgraduate students from 1 July 2020 onwards. SU is also preparing to receive the identified undergraduate students at the beginning of the second semester on 27 July, stated Martin Viljoen, SU spokesperson.
SU is permitted to invite 33% of its student population back to its campuses under the Alert Level 3 Regulations issued in terms of the National State of Disaster.
“The university is committed to completing the academic year,” said Viljoen.
Under regulations, as directed by the Department of Higher Education and Training, SU is inviting students back who have to do practical sessions, laboratory work or invigilated assessments required by professional bodies which cannot be completed online, said Viljoen.
The university has also put in place a Code of Conduct for social distancing.
According to Viljoen, the wearing of masks, sanitizing and washing hands will be mandatory, and students who live with elderly relatives will have to be extra careful to minimise the risk of infections.
In addition, SU is also offering students with challenging home learning environments the opportunity to apply to return to their respective residences or private accommodation close to campus, from where they will continue with online learning.
However, there are a limited number of spaces available and students are required to submit a formal application, the university stated in an update to students on 25 June.
“Despite our very best efforts to make provision for various circumstances, the situation remains unpredictable and may necessitate further changes as we continue with the second semester,” said Viljoen.
Students are cautious, yet eager about returning to campus. PHOTO: Wilné van Rooyen
Lewis Mboko, the chairperson of the Student Representative Council (SRC) of Stellenbosch University, said that the university has been planning for different scenarios with regards to the levels that the government may impose, since the beginning of the Covid-19 outbreak.
“The university will be able to mitigate the risk and accommodate students in level 3. Preparation is already underway and [SU] will ensure that all health protocols are followed,” said Mboko.
Final year International Studies student, Kimberly Bailey, said that although she was unsure about returning to campus, she is happy to finish her undergrad with contact classes.
“Students are more conscious of the effects of Covid-19 and will follow the guidelines implemented by SU,” she argued.
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