We will do everything we can to get back to normal
Jón Atli Benediktsson, Rector of the University of Iceland, sent the following message to University staff and students today (22 January 2021):
"Dear students and colleagues,
We now have a clearer understanding of the consequences of the water damage which took place in several University of Iceland buildings yesterday night. It is evident that this is a significant blow, but nevertheless we will do everything we can to get back to normal as quickly as possible. With resilience and solidarity, we will get through this challenge.
People are now working hard to dry out the spaces which were flooded. The plan is to quickly make a start on tearing out everything that has been destroyed and then to restore buildings and facilities. In the case of teaching spaces in the University Centre, it is clear that this will take months. The same is true of office and teaching spaces on the ground floor of Gimli, which will be closed for the foreseeable future.
Work is now underway on fixing the electricity and internet connection in Gimli. We hope that this will be finished over the weekend so that students and staff on the upper floors can return to work and study on Monday. Further information will be forthcoming as work progresses.
As previously stated, we are looking for temporary facilities for the School of Social Sciences Office and those who require the office's services should get in touch by email or telephone. The School of Social Sciences website will be updated with any new information.
I would like to once more express my gratitude to all those who have worked extremely hard to respond to this difficult and unexpected situation. Our staff and the fire department have performed Herculean feats, working around the clock. Contractors who have been working on the University campus have also done incredible work in a very short time.
Finally, I would like to remind everyone how important it is to prevent the spread of infection and I encourage you all to enjoy the weekend as best you can.
Jón Atli Benediktsson, Rector"
