Temporary additional measures to stop the virus from spreading

On Tuesday evening, the Dutch government outlined new additional measures to be in place for the next two weeks alongside the current partial lockdown. The new rules, to be in place until 19 November, do not impact higher education.

Study spaces

We are relieved that education, research and examinations will be able to continue in the format that they have been planned. Whilst you are also permitted to travel to the university to study, we do, however, urge that the only journeys made are those which are absolutely necessary. Study at home as much as possible - unless there is really no other option.

The University Library (UB) remains open in the hours that have been previously mentioned with the same study spaces also being available. Due to the exam period, the UB City Centre is also available to UG students until 6 November. Please note that if you come to study at the UB, you will need to reserve a study space in advance and stick to the universal basic rules in place which are visible throughout the building.

In addition to those in the faculties (which can be reserved via your faculty), the 70 study spaces in the former library at Oude Boteringestraat 18 also remain available, as are those in Groningen cultural venue De Oosterpoort. Those at De Oosterpoort can be used between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on a first come first served basis and it is not necessary to make a reservation. However, once full, there is no more space.

Facilities

The University Museum and the Student Cultural Centre USVA will close their doors for a fortnight. The national measures against the spread of the coronavirus will once again have an impact on the sports world and therefore on what is offered at the ACLO. Group lessons, matches and competitions are temporarily not permitted.

Face masks

We ask that you use the decision-making flowchart before coming to the university. Wearing a face mask is mandatory when walking around inside UG buildings or when standing in line/near a UG building. We would like to draw your attention once again to the national Coronamelder app.

PhD Promotions

From 9 to 19 November, the previous scenario of 26 March applies which means that only the doctoral candidate, the supervisors, the chairman and secretary, two paranymphs, the beadle and the technicians can be physically present at the ceremony. Other interested parties can follow the event online. The PhD candidate has the option of having an online ceremony or postponing the ceremony until a regular ceremony is again possible.

Hang in there

Outside the UG, remember to comply with the basic rules and the new national coronavirus measures. The partial lockdown of the 14 October will apply nationwide from the 19 November onwards and in mid-December, the Cabinet will assess what is possible for the following period.

Should you have any questions, please email study rug.nl or visit www.rug.nl/corona.

Stay safe and remember; spread the knowledge, not the virus!

The Board of the University;

Jouke de Vries, Cisca Wijmenga, Hans Biemans and student assessor Teun Havinga

University of Groningen