‘All exams will be online, postponed, or cancelled,’ said the interim head of the institution.
Due to the fast-shifting COVID-19 situation on Prince Edward Island, students at UPEI in the midst of final exams for the fall semester will write any remaining tests virtually, at a later date, or not at all.
Dr Heather Morrison, P.E.I.’s Chief Public Health Officer, announced 31 COVID-19 cases on Friday, the highest single-day number since the pandemic was proclaimed 21 months ago. There are also 75 current cases, which is a new high.
Morrison imposed further limitations in an attempt to halt the “exponential” spread of the Omicron version, including a legislative need for a two-meter physical separation in public spaces and a 50% capacity decrease in public facilities such as stores, gyms, and entertainment venues.
In an emailed response a few hours later, interim president Greg Keefe announced, “All exams will be either online, postponed, or cancelled.”
Instructors will make the final decision and speak with their students directly. The email stated that students due to take examinations on campus Saturday “should wait for instruction from their instructor.”
UPEI, according to Keefe, will assist staff in working from home if it is possible, but they must first talk with their managers and obtain consent.
According to Keefe’s email, several departments that provide critical services, such as the Atlantic Veterinary College teaching hospital and diagnostic services, will continue to do so.
The campus sports centre’s gymnasium and fitness centre, as well as the university’s Robertson Library, will remain open but at half-capacity.
Buildings on campus will be open until the end of Thursday, Dec. 23, before closing for the holidays.
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