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University of Lethbridge. (Lethbridge News Now)

U of L planning “significant return to campus” this fall

Feb 9, 2021 | 2:15 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – If you have been holding out on applying to post-secondary due to the pandemic, keep your eyes open for this fall.

The University of Lethbridge is planning to have what they call a “significant return to campus for the Fall 2021 semester.”

They have been examining the positive shifts in COVID-19 cases recently and the beginning of vaccinations as indicators that a widespread resumption of in-person learning might soon be possible.

“We acknowledge the past year has been tough on our campus community,” says U of L President and Vice Chancellor Mike Mahon.

“I am so proud of the resiliency our community has shown during this time and excited about the prospect of seeing the lively, energetic campus atmosphere we’ve all missed so much. It will be great for our students to begin to once again experience the social and academic benefits a more traditional in-person setting offers.”

A special working group at the university is consulting with faculty and other key officials to determine how to offer as many courses on campus as possible while still ensuring the health and safety of everyone involved.

This includes looking into how labs, seminars, student services, on-campus events, and work-integrated learning opportunities might be held, potentially through a combination of in-person and blended formats.

It is still be expected that there will still be at least some measure of mask-wearing and physical distancing requirements.

During the pandemic, residence spaces have been available at a reduced capacity, but the U of L anticipates a “significant increase in the number of students living on campus this fall.”

“As was the case when the University closed its campus in the early days of the pandemic, there are many logistical and safety considerations to reopening. We will use our planning time to ensure we create safe face-to face experiences,” says Mahon. “We will continue to communicate our reopening plans through public messaging, and Student Affairs will hold special information sessions for students to answer any questions they may have.”

Mahon adds that he has heard from members of the community who are anxious about seeing an influx of students return to the city in the months ahead. These considerations are also under advisement by the special working group.