Dear UP Community 

We have now entered Day 8 of the national lock down, which is meant to curb infections and flatten the curve. This effort is necessary to save our individual and collective health in the face of a pandemic caused by the coronavirus COVID-19.

I hope you have all been able to adapt to the restrictions and that you have found ways to be comfortable with new routines. I know it is not easy but it is all for our good. Do not succumb to restlessness and take risks. 

Today, Professor Norman Duncan, Vice-Principal Academic, has sent two important notices for staff and students pertaining to the academic programme. Please read them carefully. We are committed to finding workable solutions to save the academic year amid uncertain times and conditions.

I would like to express my deep appreciation for those UP staff members who are performing essential services. Your dedication to duty is admirable.

My deep appreciation also goes to our UP and national healthcare workers, who are working in conditions that expose them to risk. You are playing an integral role in fighting this pandemic and saving lives.

Continue to develop resilience by finding worthwhile things to do under lockdown conditions, like reading, writing, playing games, exercising, reflecting and being there for family and friends through communication.

Please visit the UP website for regular updates and follow us on social media platforms.

Please contact a medical doctor or the UP 24-hour crisis line (0800 0064 28 or 012 420 2310) should you feel ill or suspect that you may have been exposed. You can also call the National Institute for Communicable Diseases on 0800 029 999. For more information visit:

•             World Health Organization; or

•             National Institute for Communicable Diseases

Please stay safe and take precautions.

Best wishes

Professor Tawana Kupe

Vice Chancellor and Principal