Update: 13 March 2020
Further to the recent communications from Dr Veena O’Halloran, I would like to provide you with a further update on the considerable work underway across the University in response to the Covid-19 Coronavirus outbreak and to respond to queries received.
The safety, health and wellbeing of our students and colleagues is our top priority and we are working hard across the University community to provide up to date information and advice, offer support and prepare for the potential impact of the virus. I am leading a senior group of staff with representation from across the University Faculties and Professional Services to oversee academic contingency planning in learning, teaching and related student experience matters.
We understand that this is a very concerning time but would like to reassure you that we are taking all appropriate measures to continue the delivery of your learning and teaching and maintain your safety, health and wellbeing. The University is open as normal and all student services continue to be available for our whole student community; this includes the Library, accommodation, and student-facing support services.
The University is acting on advice from the World Health Organisation, UK and Scottish Governments, Foreign and Commonwealth Office and NHS. We have a team in place monitoring and assessing the situation daily and preparing to respond as the situation changes.
We know you have a number of questions around the possible impact and have prepared a number of Frequently Asked Questions to help address these queries. The FAQs have been updated as of Friday, March 13th and will continue to be monitored and updated, in line with advice from the bodies above, and as required. If you have any more detailed specific concerns on academic matters not addressed within the FAQs, please contact your Department in the first instance.
We appreciate that the coronavirus outbreak may be a cause of concern for you, particularly if you have family or friends who have been affected by the outbreak. The University’s Health & Wellbeing Adviser within the Disability & Wellbeing Service can also offer personal advice, information and support.
The Health Advisor within the Disability and Wellbeing Service can be contacted by calling the Service on 0141 548 3402 or emailing studenthealthenquiries@strath.ac.uk.
You can find more advice about looking after your own health and wellbeing here. We encourage the whole community to continue to maintain good hand, respiratory and personal hygiene at all times.
I would also like to take this opportunity to emphasise our commitment to ensuring that all our students feel safe, supported and valued and that they are treated with dignity and respect. If you have experienced or are aware of any inappropriate behaviour, verbal or physical harassment please notify us via Report & Support.
We are monitoring developments very closely and we will continue to provide you with updates and guidance over the coming days and weeks. I would like to extend my thanks and appreciation of the efforts that the whole university, students and staff alike, are undertaking to take a mutually supportive approach to this very challenging experience. While this period presents challenges for all, I have no doubt of the commitment we all have to working together through mutual support.
Professor Scott MacGregor, Vice Principal