12 July 2021

Dear UP staff and students

Following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s update regarding the extension of the COVID-19 risk-adjusted lockdown level 4, the University will continue with its current arrangements as outlined in the announcement distributed on 29 June 2021.

Examinations and supplementary examinations will continue online until the start of the recess on 1 August 2021. Only in exceptional cases will students be allowed on campus, upon presentation of letters of permission/permits provided by their faculties to the security staff at the entrance gates.

Residences will remain open and students are requested to adhere to all the relevant protocols and take the necessary precautionary measures.

UP staff should work from home where possible, after consultation with their line managers. In instances where they need to go to the office, staff do not require a permit to enter campus.

Any person who wants to enter the campus should complete the health assessment on the Higher Health HealthCheck application. Temperature checks will be done at the entrances.

 I know this is a difficult and challenging time for everyone, especially students who are currently writing examinations. I invite you again to reach out for help if you need it. Please make use of our mental health services: Call 0800 747 747 or, if you want someone to call you back, send an SMS to 31393.

You can also access information about and referral to peer support groups by contacting the number above or by sending an SMS. Support groups are confidential and run by students, for students.

All our services are free to registered students and available on all our campuses. The UP Careline is available to students every day, even after hours and over weekends, when the Careline also serves as our crisis support line when our offices are closed.

Take the necessary precautions

Staff and students are again reminded to avoid participating in physical gatherings and visiting crowded spaces, where possible, and to adhere strictly to all health protocols, including social distancing, the wearing of masks, and sanitising and washing hands.

Please do not come to campus if you feel ill or have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. Furthermore, if you have been in contact with someone who has tested positive, you are required to quarantine – students in residence should preferably quarantine in their residence room, and they should not go home until they are certain that the danger that they may have contracted the virus has safely passed. This is to protect family and friends at home who may otherwise be exposed.  

We will continue to monitor the situation on an ongoing basis, and will keep you informed of any further measures.

Take care and stay safe.

Prof Tawana Kupe

Vice-Chancellor and Principal