The Welsh Government has announced plans for the safe return
of students to Welsh universities after the Christmas break.
Students will be invited to return to campus over a four week
period, starting from 11 January, with a phased return to
in-person teaching. Universities will prioritise students who
most need to return early, such as those studying in
healthcare professions, those on placements or who need
access to campus facilities.
The safe return of students will be supported through the
continuation of the lateral-flow testing pilots, for
asymptomatic students, which began at Welsh universities in
late November.
Students will be asked to take a lateral-flow test when they
return to their university accommodation, before being asked
to avoid meeting socially for three days. Those students will
then take a second test. Students not taking a test will be
advised to lay low and not mix for 14 days.
The Education Minister, , said:
“I know students will be eager to return to their university
campus after the Christmas break, but will want to do that in
a safe way.
“Students will also want to return to learning in person,
where it’s safe to do so. We’re putting these measures in
place to ensure confidence in a return to learning in-person
and minimise the risk of large numbers of students needing to
self-isolate during the term.
“The lateral-flow testing programme will also play a role in
the safe resumption of learning on campus. A managed, phased
return will help meet demand, so that all students can access
two tests. This will help break chains of transmission, as
anyone unknowingly infectious can self-isolate and reduce the
risk of passing the virus to others.
“Ensuring learners of all ages can continue to study has been
a priority for the Welsh Government, despite the continuing
challenges we still face.
“It’s important that, in addition to accessing the testing
programmes in place at our universities, students continue to
act responsibly to keep themselves, and others, safe.”
Becky Ricketts, NUS Wales President, said:
“Students now have the certainty they need to plan their
return to campus in the new year. The continued use of
lateral-flow asymptomatic tests will help safeguard students
and university staff, and give local communities confidence
that the return of students will be managed safely.”
