Updates for the U of A community, week ending February 4

Posted: February 4, 5:10 p.m.

Message from the Provost to students

Today, a message from Provost Steven Dew was emailed to all students:

U of A students have demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout the pandemic, and as we head into the final two weeks of predominantly online classes, the Dean of Students Office continues to offer resources to help students navigate remote learning successfully.If you are experiencing challenges, the Dean of Students Office and your departments and faculties can work with you to find solutions. I also encourage anyone who is struggling to explore the university health and wellness supports available to see where those services can help through these next few weeks–they include free, confidential counseling services. Those struggling with financial challenges should explore options available through the Office of the Registrar.

Reminder: in-person courses resume Feb. 28 

Starting February 28, all courses originally scheduled to be in-person for the Winter 2022 will return in-person for instructors and students. Check your courses’ delivery format in Bear Tracks. Employees who are required to work in person to ensure operational delivery will also return to campus. Safety measures on our campuses–including masking, ventilation, and proof of vaccination through CampusReady passes–will continue to support a safe return to in-person activities.

Employees returning after Feb. 28

All employees who are required in person for Feb. 28 have received notice or their reminder already. Employees who have not yet received notice of a return to campus will continue to work remotely. The Province of Alberta currently remains under a provincial work-from-home measure; once that measure is lifted, faculty and unit administrative staff may begin returning to campus according to applicable public health measures and their unit’s return to campus planning. Fewer people on our campuses means greater physical space for those completing their work and learning activities in person. 

Anticipating Government of Alberta announcements regarding restrictions

During a Facebook Live broadcast on February 3, Premier Kenney mentioned the Government of Alberta will announce a plan regarding public health measures next week. The City of Edmonton may also make changes to applicable public health restrictions. As always, should there be impacts to the university’s campuses or activities, we will provide updates to our community as soon as they are available. 

Boosters and CampusReady

There is no current requirement to upload proof of booster vaccinations into the U of A’s CampusReady system. Instead, please continue to follow all applicable provincial and U of A proof of vaccination requirements. 

If you haven’t yet received your booster, book your appointment now. Third doses are available and free! 

Please continue to check your U of A inbox and uab.ca/covid19 for updates. The next regular COVID-19 update is scheduled for February 11.

General inquiries: U of A Public Health Response Team, phrtinfo@ualberta.ca