In light of the latest development of the novel coronavirus, the University has established a Committee Against Novel Coronavirus (CANC) chaired by me, President of the OUHK, aiming to coordinate the University’s efforts to ensure the health and safety of our community. This new committee will subsume the works and members of the current Emergency Response Team with immediate effect. While recognizing the importance of learning, health and safety are considered more important and should take priority. We shall try our best to minimize disruption of studies. The following measures will be implemented with immediate effect:
1. Following the announcement of the HKSAR Government, special work arrangements for University operations will be implemented after the Chinese New Year holidays in order to help reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus. Effective from 29 January 2020, except for staff providing emergency and essential services, all staff are advised to work at home. The measure will be in place tentatively until 2 February 2020 and normal office hours will resume on 3 February 2020. We will follow the Government’s future directives, monitor our University’s situation and follow up further as appropriate.
2. All face-to-face teaching will be suspended during the period of 29 January to 16 February 2020. Learning shall continue online and such activities will start on 3 February 2020. Face-to-face classes are expected to resume on 17 February 2020. Please monitor OLE and keep a close watch with announcements from your respective school and professors.
3. All local and non-local internships and placements, inbound and outbound student and staff exchange activities will be suspended until 16 February 2020. The University will continue to monitor the situation and make further announcement as necessary.
4. Mainland students who are in Hong Kong are advised to stay in Hong Kong during the period when classes are suspended. Those who are not in Hong Kong at present should not return to Hong Kong at this point in time. Support and precautionary measures for Mainland students would be provided by the Student Affairs Office and further details would be communicated via email.
5. All staff and students who have developed a fever or feel unwell are strongly advised to seek medical advice and take medical leave and refrain from coming to campus. Please inform your respective School/Unit accordingly. Reporting mechanism will be put in place and the details will be sent to you via email.
6. Effective from 29 January 2020, the University will conduct campus access control. Everyone entering the campus should show their staff/student ID and wear a mask to protect themselves as well as other people on campus. Body temperature screening will be conducted at campus entrances. Anyone who is found to have developed a fever at the entrances will be advised to seek medical consultation.
We understand that students may be concerned about the progress of your learning and study. Please rest assured that the University would provide all measures practicable to facilitate your continuous learning online during this period of interruption. We thank you for your support. Together, let’s stay vigilant, maintain good personal hygiene and work hand in hand to stay safe and healthy.
