Universities Australia has released an overarching framework designed to help universities with the complex task of resuming face-to-face learning on campuses around the country.
Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said universities all around the nation were well advanced on careful plans to resume on-campus tuition.
“Most Australian campuses never closed, with teaching moving online and much research continuing.”
“In recent weeks universities have been working closely with government and health authorities on carefully staged returns to face-to-face learning.”
“The high-level national framework has been developed by Universities Australia in consultation with health authorities and SafeWork Australia. It is designed to minimise the risk of COVID-19 transmission at universities, once face-to-face learning resumes.”
Ms Jackson said: “We know students and staff are eager to return to face-to-face learning, and a cautious approach will be taken with the safety of the university and broader community as the top priority.”
“Small classes, in areas such as lab work, tutorials and small to medium group teaching are likely to be an early focus. The detailed arrangements will differ from university to university, and from state to state, but all will adhere carefully to guidance from the medical authorities and governments.”
“Universities want to give students, staff and the community peace of mind as Australia takes careful steps out of the lockdown.”
The Principles and Protocols for Reducing the Potential Risk of Covid-19 Transmission at Universities can be found here.
