Students in the city of Leicester have pledged to help protect themselves and others in the community from COVID-19 infection, by signing up to a shared commitment created by De Montfort University (DMU) and the University of Leicester.
The new pledge has been created in time for the new autumn term, when new and returning students arrive into the city to commence their studies.
Both universities are coordinating their responses and ensuring that students understand that they have a vital part to play in preventing the transmission of COVID-19.
Professor Andy Collop, Interim Vice-Chancellor at DMU, said:
“It has never been more important for us to work together and we are actively encouraging our students and staff to consider how their actions can help protect not only each other, but the wider community of Leicester city too.
“We have worked throughout the summer to make our campus COVID-secure and we will continue to offer guidance and clear instructions to our students on how best to stay safe and to minimise the risk of transmitting COVID-19.”
Professor Nishan Canagarajah, President and Vice-Chancellor at the University of Leicester said:
“I am looking forward to welcoming our new and returning students to Leicester – they play a vital part in the life of our city and it has been immensely hard seeing our campus near to empty over the past six months.
“We know that there will be some anxieties as we approach the new academic year, and so we would like to reassure the city of Leicester and its residents that the joint priority of both universities remains the health and safety of our staff, students and our community.”
Over the summer, both universities’ campuses have been fully equipped with new layouts, one-way systems, hand sanitiser dispensers in all locations, and complete signage reminding staff and students about observing all safety requirements.
Students will be required to wear face coverings in all indoor spaces, and will be supplied with two reusable masks. In addition, all Fresher’s activities will be run virtually this year, and both universities are working with students’ unions to ensure that students can enjoy the excitement and fun of their first weeks at university without creating the risk posed by large social gatherings.
In addition to both universities creating a fully COVID safe campus and running a dual learning programme for onsite and offsite learning, the University of Leicester will also be regularly screening staff and students not displaying symptoms for COVID-19 infection.
Students will also join both universities in supporting efforts by the city of Leicester to encourage its residents to Celebrate Safely and to practice safe and responsible behaviour when enjoying the city’s night-time economy.
Posted on Tuesday 22 September 2020