Professor Brian Copeland, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Campus Principal of The UWI St. Augustine Campus announced plans for the upcoming academic year 2021/22 and, in particular, the September 2021 semester. 

The plans include the continuation of online delivery of classes for the semester, except in the case of labs, field exercises, research and any other activities that absolutely require on-campus or in-person presence. Professor Copeland made the disclosure in an email sent to students and staff on Thursday August 19.

The Pro Vice-Chancellor and Campus Principal of The UWI St. Augustine wrote that the planning and position on matters for the new academic year is the result of careful planning, consultation across management and engagement with the Incident Management Team, unions and student leaders. “We have had to treat with the challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic for almost eighteen months now and the resilience that our campus has shown has been inspiring,” said Professor Copeland. 

The email also announced the academic calendar has been finalized in which the semester is slated to start on August 29, with teaching to commence on September 6. Online course registration is slated to begin next Monday, August 23. All critical course and registration information will be available at https://sta.uwi.edu/registration.

Upgrades have been made to registration process

Among the upgrades that have been made to the registration process, the campus unveiled a new FEE PAY platform this week that will allow all students to gain instantaneous financial clearance by enrolling in a payment plan. Regarding COVID-19 vaccination, Professor Copeland revealed that Campus Management has taken the position that, until such time as the matter is legislated or pronounced upon by the Courts, it will not be mandating staff members or students to vaccinate.

One exception to this position on vaccination will be at the Halls of Residence, where only fully vaccinated students (whether nationals or non-nationals) will be allowed lodging. Notwithstanding, as part of the Campus Management’s duty to ensure the safety, health and welfare at work of all its employees and to provide and maintain a workplace that is free of known hazards, the Principal encouraged all staff and students to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

 “The more members of our community who are vaccinated, the greater chance we have of suppressing the COVID-19 virus and the production of mutations. This is also the swiftest path to a full return to campus,” explained Professor Copeland. 

Rostering and rotation of staff

With effect from the start of the new academic year on August 29 (and assuming the cessation of the State of Emergency), all offices of The UWI St. Augustine Campus will be rostering staff, on rotation, to ensure continued operations in all areas whilst ensuring effectiveness and safety. All previous COVID-19 protocols will be in effect. Until further notice, the university is maintaining its restrictions on visitors coming to campus. 

Principal Copeland also took the opportunity to encourage incoming students to enjoy the First Year Experience (FYE) programme which continues to meet informational demands, foster integration into the campus community and stimulate an excitement for learning. He also urged returning students to stay connected with their peers and to the campus and to take advantage of remote student support services to ensure success and overall good health and wellbeing. 

“I remain appreciative of the tremendous efforts all staff demonstrated in response to the pandemic, including those that have continued to come to campus to keep the university operating. I extend my thanks to our students for their hard work and patience as we move through these challenging times,” wrote Professor Copeland.