Thursday, 16 April
16 April 202009:45
The University of Cape Town has released its framework and revised calendar for completing the academic year. The framework includes remote teaching for undergraduate students and provides for the needs of vulnerable students. It also provides an equitable learning experience for all students.
Remote teaching will be informed by low-tech options and a redesigned curriculum. Regarding assessment, the most important decisions are:
- The adoption of continuous assessment and the suspension of invigilated exams for courses during the first semester
- The adoption, except for the Faculty of Law and exit level courses, of PASS/FAIL final marks in F courses
- No academic exclusions in 2020.
The relevant departments will prepare plans for areas that can’t be taught remotely, such as laboratory, field work and public service.
The second quarter will begin on 20 April with an Orientation Week lasting until 25 April. Classes will start online on 28 April.
The revised calendar assumes remote teaching will continue in the second and third quarters, returning to contact teaching in the fourth quarter. It allows for the summer term to run into 2021. This plan is subject to change.
Students can catch up on their studies through blended learning.
We will communicate further changes.
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UCT’s response to COVID-19 in 2021
COVID-19 is a global pandemic that caused President Cyril Ramaphosa to declare a national disaster in South Africa on 15 March 2020 and to implement a national lockdown from 26 March 2020.
UCT is taking the threat of infection in our university community extremely seriously, and this page will be updated regularly with the latest COVID-19 information. Please note that the information on this page is subject to change depending on current lockdown regulations.
Commemorating a year of COVID-19
At midnight on 26 March 2020, South African went into the first nationwide hard lockdown. A year later, we remember those who have died and those who have been affected by COVID-19, as well as the pandemic’s effects across society and campus. We are especially grateful for the front-line health workers who have done so much for so many.
Frequently asked questions
In an email to the UCT community, Vice-Chancellor Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng said:
“COVID-19, caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2, is a rapidly changing epidemic. [...] Information [...] will be updated as and when new information becomes available.”
We are continuing to monitor the situation and we will be updating the UCT community regularly – as and when there are further updates. If you are concerned or need more information, students can contact the Student Wellness Service on 021 650 5620 or 021 650 1271 (after hours), while staff can contact 021 650 5685.