Monday, 25 May
25 May 202014:00
This audio newsbyte from the University of Cape Town (UCT) is an update on the work being done by students and staff to address COVID-19.
A special cohort of UCT staff is working on the frontlines on campus to protect our health and safety in light of COVID-19.
Using guidelines from the Department of Higher Education and Training, the Properties and Services (P&S) Department is ensuring that we have a clean and well-maintained campus to return to.
Campus Protection Services continue to patrol the campuses. Some Information and Communication Technology Services workers are also on site for essential work.
All have been given appropriate personal protective equipment and briefed on appropriate hygiene practices.
Last week some final-year medical students returned to resume their clinical course work. They are being supported by colleagues in the Department of Student Affairs, Student Housing, Student Wellness Services and P&S, who are providing essential services in the health sciences faculty, residences and clinics.
UCT experts in various disciplines are working long hours with government to develop effective strategies for the province and the nation. University researchers, students and staff continue to investigate the virus and seek ways to fight it.
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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.