COVID-19 Update for February 14: NAIT vaccine policy to end; most winter term theory and lecture cla


Posted: Feb 14, 2022 4:56 PM   |  Updated: Mar 10, 2022 1:50 PM

COVID-19 Update for February 14: NAIT vaccine policy to end; most winter term theory and lecture classes originally scheduled on campus to return February 28

Posted: Feb 14, 2022 4:56 PM   |  Updated: Mar 10, 2022 1:50 PM

As we have throughout the pandemic, we are adjusting our health and safety measures in response to changing public health guidance, the trajectory of the pandemic and the needs of the community. To that end, we are making the following changes:

In-person learning

Most winter term theory and lecture classes that were originally scheduled on campus will return to in-person learning as planned, starting February 28. Programs will confirm course delivery with students in the coming week.

Classes originally scheduled for virtual delivery will continue online as planned, while shops and labs that require in-person participation to meet learning outcomes will continue on campus. 

The peak of the fifth wave is behind us, the number of cases reported to NAIT Health Services is trending down, and last week the premier announced Alberta's phased approach to easing restrictions.

We recognize the return to on-campus learning may present challenges for some and we will follow the existing learning accommodation process for students. Students requiring a learning accommodation should contact learningservices@nait.ca

Campus health measures 

Vaccine policy

Effective February 28, we are removing our vaccine policy and procedure as it no longer aligns with public health measures and regulations. 

That means that starting February 28, students and staff will no longer be required to upload proof of vaccination to NAIT Alert to be on campus, and contractors and tenants will not be required to provide attestations.

Our vaccine policy was one of many layers of infection prevention measures we put in place during the fourth wave. We will continue with other health and safety measures that have helped reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19 on our campuses throughout the pandemic.  

Even as we remove the vaccine requirements, know that we have a highly vaccinated campus community. We continue to encourage everyone coming to our campuses to be fully vaccinated and to get their booster shots as soon as they are eligible. Vaccination against COVID-19 remains the best way to prevent severe illness and death, and third doses can boost immunity to improve protection and limit spread. 

Masking

Masks continue to be required at NAIT. We will monitor provincial and City of Edmonton guidelines as the situation evolves.

Safety on campus is a shared responsibility

We continue to prioritize the health and safety of the NAIT community as we welcome more people to campus.

NAIT has implemented strong infection prevention measures to minimize the risk of exposure to COVID-19. We

  • have upgraded our building ventilation and increased air circulation and filtration to reduce potential airborne spread
  • maintain enhanced cleaning for high-traffic areas and high-touch surfaces
  • have a rapid response plan in place to guide management of COVID-19 cases impacting our campuses 

Safety on campus is a shared responsibility. We can all contribute by

  • staying home when sick
  • wearing masks in all indoor public places
  • keeping two metres of distance in common areas (physical distancing is encouraged)
  • practicing good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette, such as covering your cough   

Be kind to yourself and others

Please continue to be kind and understanding with one another as we transition through this next phase of the pandemic. Each of us will feel differently as restrictions begin to ease. Some will embrace this stage, while others will feel anxious. This is understandable, and we encourage members of the NAIT community to reach out for any support you need
 
NAIT is an inclusive community. It is everyone’s responsibility to help each other through this transition with kindness and compassion.

Thank you for your patience and resilience as we continue to respond to the ever-changing realities of the pandemic, and for doing your part to keep the NAIT community safe, healthy and kind. 

You can find the latest information on NAIT’s response to COVID-19 at nait.ca/covid19.

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