The provincial government continues to lift restrictions currently in place to reduce the spread of COVID-19. I’m providing an update today on UNBC’s response to those actions.

As we have done throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we are relying on the expertise and direction we receive from the Provincial Health Officer. Last night our leadership team met with the Faculty and CUPE union leadership teams to consult on an approach regarding masks.

Keeping in line with Dr. Henry’s advice, UNBC will remove the mask requirements at our campuses and worksites. However, we still strongly recommend that you continue to wear masks in all indoor public areas, including classrooms, laboratories, lobbies, hallways, stairwells and elevators. We also encourage you to be thoughtful and respectful of others’ choices in this regard.

I thank the members of the UNBC community, as it is your shared efforts that have led us to where we are today. You have committed to wearing masks, getting vaccinated, to teaching, learning and working in entirely new environments. Your efforts have made UNBC’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic one that is based on science, employs best practices, and keeps our community’s health and well-being as the top priority.

Thank you all!
Geoff Payne
UNBC President and Vice Chancellor (Interim)