Monday, 31 August
31 August 202012:20
The University of Cape Town (UCT) has developed a framework to identify which students and staff may return to campus on an invitation-only basis in a phased-in approach under lockdown Level 2.
As outlined by the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, depending on the size of the institution, no more than 66% of students will be allowed to return to campus and residences.
The new regulations have been instated provided that students and staff can be safely accommodated and supported in line with the health and safety guidelines enforced by the Department of Higher Education and Training.
Returning students
- Vulnerable students: based on challenging home circumstances, socio-economic disadvantages or particular barriers to academic progress. These students will continue remote learning in residences.
- Students registered in performing arts courses and students needing to undertake practical blocks. These students will be invited in phases.
- Selected postgraduate researchers who need to use on-campus facilities to complete their research projects.
- Final-year medical students have already returned to residences.
All students must undergo a 10-day self-quarantine period upon returning to residences. Dining halls will remain closed and the Jammie Shuttle bus service will be limited. All, with the exception of one computer lab, remain closed and UCT Libraries continue to operate virtually.
All departments have identified those staff whose work necessitates that they be on campus. Those staff have been granted access to campus, on condition that they undergo daily health screening and adhere to strict protocols. All other members of staff have been asked to continue working from home.
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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.