THE University of the South Pacific’s Disaster Management Committee (USPDISMAC) has authorized that the Mid-Semester break be extended by an additional week and classes is expected to resume by April 6.
This was confirmed by the University’s Vice Chancellor and President Professor Pal Ahluwalia.
He has stated that the academic year has now been effectively extended by a week.
“It is expected that classes will resume on Monday 6 April 2020,” he said.
“Students are encouraged to study remotely but our Campuses (except Lautoka) will only be open from 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday during this period.
“During the extended Mid-Semester break, there will be no tests or other forms of assessments and alternative arrangements will be announced at a later date.”
Prof Ahluwalia has advised that staff would continue to work and USP would use this time to prepare for transition to increase remote teaching of our courses.
“Please note that USP Lautoka Campus remains at Level 3 of our COVID-19 Pandemic Management Plan, meaning that the Campus is closed.”
“We will provide further advice following Fiji Government recommendations before the 6th of April.”
He said student residents living within the Laucala Halls have been advised to return home as soon as possible and at the latest by March 23.
“If circumstances do not allow this given national advisories, please contact the Halls Manager on alfred.antonio@usp.ac.fj or phone +679 32 32280.”
“For students from Lautoka who are resident at Laucala Campus, you have the option to remain in the Halls, depending upon individual circumstances.”
“USP understands that a number of international and regional students remain on our campuses and we are fully committed to supporting them, for any assistance please contact lillian.fuata@usp.ac.fj or phone +679 32 31753.”
He adds all its recreational facilities including gym, swimming pool and playgrounds at the Laucal campus would remain closed during the extended mid-semester break period.
“Nevertheless, other facilities in Campuses other than Lautoka, such as the Library and computer labs will remain open from 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday during the extended Mid-Semester break.”
