University College Dublin (UCD) have announced that learning will remain online until October 5th at the earliest. This date is in reference to the government’s review of the current level 3 restrictions. This was communicated to students in the afternoon of September 22nd in an email from Deputy President Mark Rodgers.
In the email, students were told that the University “have been given direction by the Government on the restrictions to apply to our educational activities during this time. These measures go beyond those indicated for Higher Education in the Government’s ‘Framework for Restrictive Measures in Response to COVID-19’and are in keeping with the restrictions indicated for Level 4 in that framework.” This is despite Dublin operating at a level 3 Covid-19 alert.
The remote learning encompasses all face-to-face learning “unless you are informed otherwise by your module coordinator” and online classes will run as per students’ timetables.
While learning has shifted online, UCD campus will remain open. Libraries, designated study areas and campus-based research are to operate as they have been, adhering to government guidelines on social-distancing. Residences are to also operate as normal, as will on-campus catering under government guidelines. UCD Sports and Fitness Centre will also remain open.
This follows from UCD’s communication to students on Friday stating that week 1 will be conducted remotely.
The University has assured students that the situation will remain under review and students will be updated on any further changes that may arise as a result of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Students have been assured that the campus continues to be a safe environment.
Luke Murphy, Co-Editor
