Namibian Sun

Due to the recent increase in COVID-19 cases, the blended teaching and learning approach, which the University adopted earlier this year, has been revisited. With immediate effect, all face-to-face classes are suspended and classes will be offered online, until further notice. It must be noted that the bulk of teaching activities for the first semester have already been concluded, therefore, a minimal interruption to the University’s operations is anticipated. In cases where face-to-face teaching and/or practical lab sessions are still required to successfully conclude the current semester, permission needs to be granted from Management. However, the continuous face-to-face test and assessment schedules for the rest of the first semester remain as is and should be adhered to accordingly. This is to ensure that students’ identities can be verified and avoid academic misconduct. This arrangement is further necessitated to ensure compliance with the regulatory bodies that accredit the University’s qualifications. Despite the circumstances, quality must be upheld at all times and this must not be comprised. Moreover, all students who test positive for COVID-19, are entitled to request to write special assessments. This permission must be sought from their respective lecturer and Head of Department, as per the NUST General Information and Regulations. A Medical Certificate should be presented. Virtual meetings are encouraged, where possible. If not, contact meetings, of 50 or less attendees, will be allowed, where necessary, following the appropriate social distancing, sanitising and correct wearing of masks. It must however, be noted, that face-to-face test and assessments are permitted as stated in terms of S 29(1) of the Public and Environmental Health Act, 2015 (Act No. 1 of 2015), known as the PUBLIC HEALTH COVID-19 GENERAL REGULATIONS: PUBLIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL
HEALTH ACT, 2015, Sub regulation (2) which prohibits all gatherings of more than 50 people. However, it provides for permission in circumstances such as the following: “the gathering is for purposes of provision of education and training at early childhood development centres, schools or higher education institutions.”
The University continues to be vigilant in this regard and has put in place safety protocols in line with the national health regulations.