3 December 2021

Dear UP community

With the recent increase in COVID-19 positive cases, especially in the Tshwane area, it is essential for everyone to take extra precautions to reduce the risk and ensure the well-being of our community. I, therefore, request that all year-end functions and large gatherings be cancelled and that everything possible is done to prevent the virus from spreading.

While the University will continue to implement and maintain strict compliance with the necessary health and safety protocols to ensure the well-being of our students and staff, it is everyone’s responsibility to comply with the health protocols.

 Where students come to campus, they are reminded to complete the HealthCheck screening before they arrive. Students should not come to campus if they feel unwell, and they must remember to follow the application process to write the supplementary examinations.

UP staff are advised to reduce the number of days in the office to three per week and preferably on a rotational basis. Where possible, and in close consultation with line managers, staff are encouraged to take their accumulated leave. This should be done without compromising the quality of service delivery and preparation for 2022.

As a reminder, the regulations regarding room capacities for all venues must be strictly applied. In addition, and in order to reduce COVID-19-related risks even more for our students, the University does not follow the 50% capacity of a venue as a guideline, but limits the number of students in an exam venue to between 15% and 19%. It’s everyone’s responsibility to ensure that health protocols are observed at gatherings, including ensuring appropriate social distancing and the wearing of masks that cover the nose and mouth. Do not forget to sanitise and wash your hands regularly.

The University will continue to monitor risk levels, and I strongly encourage staff and students to get vaccinated as soon as possible. It is now more important than ever. The more people that are vaccinated, the more lives we will save. Getting vaccinated reduces severe illness from COVID-19 and prevents hospitalisation and death. It could save your life, or the lives of those you love.

The situation will be monitored on an ongoing basis, and we will keep you informed of any further measures to manage current conditions.

Enjoy your weekend and stay safe.

Kind regards,

Prof Tawana Kupe

Vice-Chancellor and Principal