Jón Atli Benediktsson, Rector of the University of Iceland, sent the following message to University staff and students today (6 November 2020):
"Dear students and colleagues,
Once more, I would like to thank you all, dear students and colleagues, for your response to the temporary restrictions placed on our work. Although we can see the infection rate falling here in Iceland over the last few days, we know from experience that we cannot let our guard down. We must continue to stand together, knowing that our tenacity will bring success and that the infection control measures we can take as individuals are our best defence. Let's respect physical distancing rules and limits on gatherings and remember to use hand sanitiser and wear protective masks.
This week the Aurora University Network met to discuss increased collaboration between member universities. The network comprises nine European universities, all of which excel in research and place major emphasis on social responsibility, innovative teaching and diversity. One offshoot of the Aurora Network is a project focused on shaping the future plans of European universities, funded by a generous grant from the European Union. The goal is to enhance social innovation and increase the flexibility of collaboration between universities, e.g. in the area of joint study programmes and degrees. This will promote the mobility of students and staff.
Although we cannot plan many study or research trips right now, it is clear that the partnership between these universities will undoubtedly bring us all significant benefits in the future. The University of Iceland will lead the Aurora Network for the next two years. This is a particularly exciting opportunity for the University of Iceland to shape the future of higher education in Europe, working closely with other prestigious, dynamic universities across the continent.
Dear students, Most of you are probably starting to think about exams. Next week, there will be an announcement on arrangements for exams this December. As previously stated, we will of course be organising exams in accordance with the current situation. I want to encourage you to apply yourself to your studies with as much diligence and determination as possible. It will yield results, not only in the exams themselves, but in all your future endeavours. We staff will of course be doing everything in our power to support you going forward, as we have done up to this point.
I would also like to urge you all, students and colleagues, to keep up the conscientious attitude that has characterised all our work here at the University of Iceland during this pandemic.
Let's bear in mind that conscientiousness and professionalism are not only tools to help us maintain the quality of teaching and learning in challenging circumstances, but also the foundation of the high level of trust the University enjoys in our society and beyond our borders.
Now we come to the end of the week and as we get closer to exams, many of you will be using the weekend to study. Still, we mustn't forget to enjoy the break to clear our minds and renew our strength.
Let's take care. Look out for one another and ourselves.
Jón Atli Benediktsson, Rector"