Weekend wishes as the winter begins

Jón Atli Benediktsson, Rector of the University of Iceland, sent the following message to University staff and students today (23 October 2020):

„Dear students and colleagues, 

It is wonderful to see the infection rate falling here in Iceland over the last few days, although it is still too soon to celebrate our success. We know from experience, though, that a united effort to control the spread of infection is extremely effective. 

Of course, there is a lot of extra strain on all of us these days. A new survey by the Student Council clearly shows that students are feeling worried, stressed and unhappy as a result of the pandemic. A recent survey by the University of Iceland School of Education also revealed that University staff have significantly higher workloads since the assembly ban was introduced and that more of them are feeling stressed than before. 

It was good to see, however, that according to the School of Education survey, most staff members feel safe in their workplace despite the enormous challenges. Most also believe that the University's action to prevent infection has been effective. One thing that improves wellbeing is reducing uncertainty, and it is great to see that the vast majority regularly visit our website to check what measures are being taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. An even higher proportion of staff believe that information from the Emergency Response Board has been well focused. 

We will scrutinise the results of both these important surveys and take them into account wherever possible.

Despite these difficult circumstances, I would urge you all, dear students and colleagues, to be conscientious in your work and studies, because it remains the case that focus and diligence will yield the best results. 

Despite the assembly ban, University buildings will remain open to students every day until 7 pm, or 9 pm with an access card. Students may use work facilities and reading rooms at the University, but corridors continue to be designated no-stopping zones. I strongly encourage you all to respect physical distancing rules and take care over personal infection control and mask wearing.  

I draw your attention to the fact that the application deadline for postgraduate studies starting next spring has been extended to 31 October. If you are just finishing an undergraduate programme, I encourage you to check out the programmes on offer on the University website (in Icelandic). The application process is simple. 

Now we go into the weekend and it just so happens that tomorrow is the first official day of winter. Despite the shortening days, the winter brings its own opportunities, which we should seize with both hands. Our minds are not only the source of innovation and the wellspring of all progress – they can also be a weapon against many of the causes of stress and anxiety. Let's think positively, as the poet Þorsteinn Erlingsson did when he dispelled the winter with thoughts of summer. 

Þegar vetrar þokan grá            (When the grey fog of winter
þig vill fjötra inni:                       tries to bind you:
svífðu burt og sestu hjá            float away and settle
sumargleði þinni.                       beside your summer joy.)

Let's stand together and take care of ourselves and one another. 

Jón Atli Benediktsson, Rector“