Planning framework
As we manage our response to the COVID-19 pandemic and gradually returning to campus, we’ll continue to deliver on the academic and research mission of our university, while prioritizing the health, safety and well-being of all members of our community.
Health, safety and wellness
We know the disruption of student life and academics brought about by COVID-19 has led to much uncertainty and emotional disruption within our campus community.
The health and safety of Ontario Tech University’s campus and the broader community has always been the university’s top priority. As we consider everything that is required of us to safely and gradually return to campus, we recognize that COVID-19 vaccination rates are going to play an important role in re-establishing a new sense of normalcy, allowing more in-person activities to take place, and reducing the likelihood of on-campus transmission. Vaccination remains the best protection against the worst effects of COVID-19 and its variants, and is the most important way to protect public health. All university community members are strongly encouraged to remain up-to-date on boosters, when eligible.
It is important to acknowledge that returning to campus isn’t solely about vaccinations; it is also about recognizing the very real anxieties of our students, faculty and staff. All of us have gone through a very difficult experience, and we need to be empathetic, caring and compassionate.
The health and well-being of our community is critical, and requires long-term effort and commitment. This plan will change and evolve as we move toward a post-pandemic period. The following principles will guide our approach to our gradual return-to-campus:
Ontario Tech guiding principles
Our plan will:
- Follow directives from multiple government levels and public health.
- Concentrate on the health, safety and well-being of our university community.
- Support the primary values and advance the mission of our university.
- Remain adaptable in order to respond to public-health. recommendations for temporary closure in the event of an outbreak or identified exposure, or if additional waves of COVID-19 infection occurs.
- Integrate risk-management strategies and support our campus community to make informed decisions, while promoting personal and public responsibility.