Given the ever-changing situation with regards to Coronavirus (COVID-19), we continue to follow guidance provided by Northern Health, the Provincial Health Officer (PHO), and the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training in our decision making. Our decisions are made in an effort to reduce points of contact between people and to promote social distancing.

As my commitment to provide regular information to the University community, here are the latest updates:

• We are ending face-to-face classes as of the end of day today, March 17. Faculty will continue to work with chairs and students to move to alternate modes of delivery. We have some flexibility for small-group activities that are in line with recommendations from the Provincial Health Officer.
• Final exams will not be conducted in a face-to-face format. Faculty, Chairs and Deans will work on alternate modes of assessment and communicate with students.
• We are reducing hours in the library.
• We’re working towards a set of work-from-home principles for our employees and the logistics that go with that. I am asking supervisors to work with employees to develop plans, identify needs, etc. We will continue to adjust our plans based on guidance provided by Northern Health, the PHO, and various provincial Ministries.
  • The exception to this is those who are immunocompromised, are caring for those who are immunocompromised, or have travelled internationally and are required to self-isolate.
• For students in Housing, we strongly encourage you to move out of UNBC residence as soon as possible. The more we can reduce points of contact between people to ensure the health and safety of our community, the better.

This situation is fluid and rapidly evolving. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Thank you.

Geoff Payne,
Interim President and Vice-Chancellor