Teaching to continue mainly online in the new year

Jón Atli Benediktsson, Rector of the University of Iceland, sent the following message to University staff and students today (11 December 2020):

"Dear students and colleagues, 

First of all, I would like to thank you all for helping to make sure that on-campus and distance exams can take place successfully, despite challenging circumstances. The autumn semester final exam period will end next week and I wish the best of luck to those students who still have exams.  It is essential that we remain cautious for these last few days of the exam period.  Let's take all the steps we can to prevent infection, respect physical distancing limits and remember to use protective masks. This applies equally to the rush that sometimes characterises our preparations for the holiday season. 

It is now clear that teaching for the 2021 spring semester will be largely online, as has been the case for most of the autumn semester, although limited on-campus learning will continue to be permitted, as determined in further detail by schools and faculties. We will continue to assess the situation in light of the course of the pandemic and the vaccination programme in Iceland. 

Our constant aim at the University of Iceland is to create an inspiring and engaging environment for work and study, an environment that promotes the wellbeing of everybody. Hopefully, as soon as possible next year, we will be able to return to working in the ways we know best and reopen our buildings without restrictions. Falling infection rates among those not in quarantine, relaxation of public health restrictions, and plans for a COVID-19 vaccination give us cause for optimism. 

As the holidays approach, despite everything, there is a growing sense of the festive spirit that marks this time of year. The contrast between light and shadow is stark in December. Let's enjoy it, but remember to be careful with candles and decorations. 

Let's look out for one another and spread compassion this Advent. 

Have a good weekend. 

Jón Atli Benediktsson, Rector"