COVID-19 and Easter 2020 - Message from the Vice Chancellor
Dear member of the University of Ibadan Community
As this Easter season comes upon us, it is a period to reflect on the implication of the current global challenge and how the University of Ibadan has responded to it. Despite the fact that operations and activities that were to round up the academic session were affected by the industrial action of two non-teaching staff unions, I specifically commend the deliberateness with which the members of the academic staff (ASUU) saw to it that the students concluded their examinations and ensured that computation of the results began. While hoping that all the issues surrounding the industrial actions are peacefully resolved, I will like to put on record the commitment of all the category of staff to the welfare of students as COVID-19 became a reality on our country, the city of Ibadan and indeed our campus.
The adaptation to the new normal on campus is really impressive. Our colleagues, who are scientists and professionals in the management of infectious diseases and the dangers of community spread, have joined forces with the state and the nation in the production of products and services that can combat the pandemic. The levels of compliance with modes of religious worship, closure of recreation centers, stay at home order, counsel on social distancing, self-isolation, increased levels of hygiene and hand washing have been most impressive.
Although we admit that these measures are alarming and disruptive, they have been adopted from best global practices in dealing with pandemics of this magnitude. Be assured that it’s the most appropriate way to protect the overall well-being and health of the University of Ibadan community.
Structures are being put in place towards resumption at the end of this lockdown, and as in other institutions in the international community, strategies are being evolved to migrate to on-line teaching and learning platforms, as soon as practicable, including a Learning Management System, that already exist and to continue to improve the capacity of more Faculty to become more competent in the use of these resources in facilitating teaching and learning.
Our dear students and the Students’ Union have been most cooperative in the execution of the immediate response to the pandemic. In the near future, their current dexterous and ingenious engagement of on-line resources will ensure smooth transition to on-line teaching and learning.
As the Easter holiday begins tomorrow and governments of certain states may contemplate to relax the COVID-19 response measures, do remember that the responsibility of protecting yourself, your family and the University of Ibadan Community lies solely on you. Ensure that you are celebrating Easter the safe way and with a high sense of responsibility that does not turn the celebration in to a potential risk for more outbreaks. Do put off non-essential travels and let us continue to enjoy the new normal habits and atmosphere of, indoor exercises, staying home, staying healthy, and observing social distancing and hygiene as our culture.
I am continually proud of resiliency of the University of Ibadan community whenever we are faced with challenges. I will like to assure you that we will get through this together.
Happy Easter celebrations to you and your loved ones.
Idowu Olayinka
Vice-Chancellor
University of Ibadan
Thursday, 9th April 2020