Response to media query – UKZN return to campus of students under lockdown level two

In keeping with the Department of Higher Education and Training’s (DHET) guidelines under level 2 of the lockdown, the University of KwaZulu-Natal is currently preparing for the next phase of the staggered return of students to campus. Under lockdown level two, a further one-third of the UKZN student cohort will be invited to return by the end of September 2020.

The Executive Management Committee, Return to Campus Task team has identified approximately 2 500 students having significant challenges with online connectivity and/or non-conducive living and learning environments, and these students will be invited back to campus, starting from the week of 31 August 2020. Eligible students will be notified of their respective return to campus dates via a personal invitation extended by the School or College.

There are stringent admission and security measures in place to manage and control access to all campuses and residences. Admission is strictly by invitation only. Students are required to adhere to the code of conduct and rules for access. Students must present their self-screening reports, access permits and student cards for admission.

Academic and professional services staff that have been identified as essential to providing academic instruction and learning support to returning students have been notified to return to work.

Additional LANS and demarcated areas which are regularly monitored and sanitised will be made available for use by students.

Returning students and staff will be required to comply with all health and safety regulations protocols to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

Normah Zondo
Acting Executive Director: Corporate Relations

For further information please contact: Indu Moodley, Media Liaison Officer on 031 260 7213 / 083 555 9508 or at [email protected].