Update on UCalgary COVID policies

On Tuesday, Feb. 8 the Government of Alberta announced the end of the Restriction Exemption Program and, subject to reductions in hospitalization numbers, planned ends to requirements for masking and remote-working directives. Following this announcement, the Departments of Advanced Education and Health provided additional guidance to post-secondary institutions on alignment with these plans.

Return to campus

Subject to realized declines in the number of COVID-19 hospitalizations in Alberta, the Government anticipates lifting its remote work directives at the end of February. As previously announced, the University of Calgary will be returning to in-person teaching and instruction on Feb. 28. At this time, we will begin a phased return to campus for faculty and staff, with priority return for those involved with in-person elements that support student experience.

Vaccine requirements

The University wholeheartedly embraces the value of vaccination in keeping you, your loved ones and our broader community safe. Evidence of vaccination will not be required, however, to enrol in courses for future semesters or for continued employment at the University of Calgary. This shift is consistent with the direction from the province. It is important to keep in mind that we are a highly vaccinated community, with 99 per cent of the entire student, faculty and staff body fully vaccinated. This high level of vaccination helps protect us all.

Mask requirements

Subject to realized declines in the number of COVID-19 hospitalizations in Alberta, the Province of Alberta is removing the general public requirement to wear masks indoors as of March 1. To remain consistent with this government policy, while reflecting that many students have enrolled in in-person classes for the Winter Term in part because of guarantees of masking requirements, masking remains required until the end of the Winter Term. At that time, masking will become optional at the University of Calgary.

It is important to note that, as of today, the City of Calgary still maintains a mask bylaw. Should that bylaw remain in effect after April 12, students, faculty and staff will still be required to wear masks while indoors in facilities located within the City of Calgary.

Ours is a highly vaccinated community and the measures announced allow students to make a choice as to how they wish to proceed in coming semesters — whether online or in person. We will be watching the situation closely and will keep you up to date on any further changes.

I look forward to our previously planned return to campus — one that I know, for some of you, is your first time on campus. The University of Calgary is a place of energy and ideas. It will be good to see you all again.

Sincerely,
Ed McCauley
President and Vice-Chancellor