Start main page content

Covid-19 Update 46 - Level 1 is here

- Wits University

We welcome the news that South Africa will move to national lockdown level 1 from Monday, 21 September 2020.

However, given that we are still in the midst of a pandemic, let us continue to remain vigilant, and to follow all regulations and protocols in order to stave off a second wave of the coronavirus.

Implications for staff and students

We have received many queries pertaining to the return to our campuses and residences (including emails from international students), the continuation of the emergency remote academic programme (contact and/or online teaching and learning), and the mode of the upcoming examinations.

We are waiting for the Minister of Higher Education and Training to announce level 1 regulations for the sector. In the interim, please note the following:

  • The academic programme will continue as is, unless you are notified otherwise by your faculty,
  • Your school/faculty will advise you directly about the mode of your examinations,
  • You should only return to campus if you receive an invitation (and permit) from your faculty,
  • International students should not return until we have clarity on the regulations from the Ministry,
  • Students who are invited to return to residences will be issued with permits, and
  • Staff members should return if requested to do so by their line managers.

Please note that staff and students who are at risk due to co-morbidities should not return to campus, and should follow the University’s policies and protocols in this regard.

A further announcement will follow next week, once the Ministerial regulations are announced.

Update on student and staff infections

One staff member and three students reported testing positive for COVID-19 during the past week. These include staff members who are working from home. This is out of a population comprising of approximately 5 500 permanent staff and 37 500 students. Affected staff members and students are self-isolating in line with governmental directives and University protocols.

  • of infections

10 Sept – 17 Sep

22 June – 17 Sep

Staff

1

104

Students

3

187

News and Analysis

For the latest COVID-19 news, opinion, analysis and updates from Wits, please visit www.wits.ac.za/covid19.

COVID Alert SA App

President Cyril Ramaphosa has encouraged all people living in South Africa to download the free exposure notification COVID Alert SA app. It lets you know when you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14 days.

#JerusalemaChallenge

The President also encouraged people to participate in the Heritage Day #JerusalemaChallenge. No need to rush to the Library Lawns – simply tag #WitsJerusalemaChallenge on Twitter, YouTube, Facebook or Instagram once you have mastered your moves.   

You will receive a further update next week, once the new regulations are announced.

Take care

SENIOR EXECUTIVE TEAM

18 SEPTEMBER 2020

Share