On Campus, if we can | Online, because we can

Since the end of February 2020, the Netherlands has been affected by the Corona pandemic, and has had to observe the measures prescribed by the Dutch government on the advice of the RIVM (the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment). For the UG this has meant that all education has been conducted remotely since 13 March, and will stay that way until the end of this Academic year. In many cases lectures, workshops, tests and exams were quickly moved online, enabling everyone to now study and work from home.

Needless to say, this has had a considerable impact on our students, teachers, researchers and other colleagues. As a team, we are looking at different solutions. We realise that communicating via screens is not ideal, and that we have yet to find a suitable online method for lab and fieldwork; however there is no lack of innovative thinking, and we are adapting to a new reality at a rapid pace. It is an undeniable fact that our academic community thrives when knowledge and experience are shared, and that meeting each other will always be a valuable source of inspiration. This is why we will be first in line to implement face to face interaction once the government measures are relaxed.

Education in 2020-21: hybrid

The current situation has required Dutch universities to consider a number of scenarios for the next Academic year. Even when the current crisis is over, universities will continue to offer online education, because we see the benefits too. Due to this, Wednesday 6 May the VSNU (Association of Universities in the Netherlands) has launched a campaign: On Campus, if we can | Online, because we can.

We are doing what we can to continue to offer the high quality that is at the very heart of our higher education. Even after 1 September, the UG will remain ‘open’ and guarantee university education - even if there is a new lockdown. It is likely that in the Academic Year 2020-2021 some teaching will take place in our buildings and some online. We are looking for the best hybrid solution. The physical element will need to be properly organised in line with any distance or other governmental measures which will of course be observed.

One thing is certain: yours and our health and safety is prioritised above everything else. Together we are trying to solve a worldwide health problem and in the meantime we need to make the best of it. In the city, on campus and in our buildings when possible. Online because it is possible.