St Andrews University students have been told to “go home without delay, if you can” as steps are taken to reduce the spread of coronavirus.
Principal Professor Sally Mapstone issued the stark message on Tuesday morning as the Fife institution took further steps to tackle covid-19 and protect students and staff.
The university previously confirmed it has been planning for this situation for weeks and did not “underestimate the seriousness of this situation, or its effects on the life of our community”.
Measures taken so far include the closure of the university’s libraries, Sports Centre, Students’ Association, and public spaces until further notice, while some other buildings will only be accessible through swipe card.
Students have also been told to expect the delivery of all teaching and assessment exclusively in online formats when semester resumes after spring break on March 30.
But Professor Mapstone’s email to students on Tuesday morning confirmed that remote-working plans are to be implemented to allow staff who can work from home to do so.
“I am writing again today to ask that you go home without delay, if you can,” she stressed.
“I know that there are some of you who cannot travel or go home, and I want to assure you that we will do everything we can to look after you in St Andrews in the weeks and months ahead.
“The fewer students who stay here, however, the better we are able to look after those who cannot leave.”
Students and staff have similarly been asked to check their university email accounts at least twice daily for further updates.
