University College of the North (UCN) announced Aug. 19 that it will require everyone attending one of their facilities in person to be fully vaccinated, effective Nov. 1.
This includes students, staff, faculty and visitors.
Those who are working or learning remotely do not have to be fully vaccinated.
“The goal is simple,” said UCN president Doug Lauvstad in a press release. “The University College of the North will do whatever it takes to ensure the safety of our students, staff and communities that we serve. The fall 2021 term will see an increase in on-campus activity and in-person classes. It’s well known that vaccines are an important and effective tool in reducing the transmission and effects of COVID-19.”
The decision to require those attending UCN facilities to be vaccinated come November was made in collaboration with other Manitoba colleges and universities and support from the provincial government, the post-secondary institution says.
On-campus vaccination clinics will be held in partnership with Manitoba public health for faculty, staff and students, who will receive more information about the policy in the coming days.
Pandemic protocols such as wearing masks on campus, observing physical distancing and self wellness checks remain in place and will continue until at least when the vaccine mandate becomes effective at the end of October and likely beyond.
Detailed protocols can be found at ucncovid.ca/sharing-space-safely.
