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Lockdown: what does it mean for UM?
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On 14 December, the cabinet declared a hard lockdown for the entire country. We at Maastricht University were not surprised by this decision. In close consultation with the many parties involved, Maastricht University has been considering various scenarios for some time, including a hard lockdown. Therefore, the resulting measures can be implemented quickly. Below you can read what this means in practice for students and staff.
But before we quickly move on to practical matters, we would like to stress that we are very much aware that, however carefully prepared, the measures will place a heavy burden on staff and students – not for the first time, of course. Once again, we would like to express our appreciation and gratitude for your great commitment and involvement, and hope once more for your understanding.
For students:
Education From tomorrow 16 December, education will be fully online until at least the end of period 3. The educational model of period 4 (online or hybrid) will be determined at a later date. This decision might be taken around 12 January, when the government indicates how it wishes to proceed after the lockdown period.
Exams In principle, there is no change in our exams policy. UM already offers the possibility of both on-campus and online exams. This will continue until at least the end of period 3.
Study facilities As during the first lockdown in spring, a limited number (max. 100) of study places are available upon reservation, especially for vulnerable students. These study places are located at Grote Looiersstraat 17. This building is only open during the day. We will let you know as soon as possible which students are allowed to use these study places and how these places can be reserved.
Exchange The exchange policy remains unchanged. You can read the existing agreements here.
Medical internships Medical internships will continue, provided this is possible at the locations concerned.
For employees:
Working from home Working from home is and remains the norm. If you need items from the office to work from home, you can pick them up this week. During the lockdown, no meetings will take place on location.
Childcare According to the new measures, childcare will remain open for people with essential functions. Teachers and educational support staff will belong to this category. To demonstrate that you are performing such a function, an employer's declaration is available from the director of your unit.
Research Location-based research is permitted, as was the case during the intelligent lockdown in the spring. Research according to protocol with test subjects may also continue, provided that the test subjects themselves agree to this.
PhD conferrals For all PhD conferrals scheduled for the period from 7 to 19 January, PhD candidates are given the choice between an online conferral and postponing to a later date when on-campus promotions are possible once more. For PhD promotions after 20 January, a decision will be made around 12 January, after the next press conference. This will be communicated as soon as we know more.
For all:
Buildings UM buildings will close on Wednesday 16 December. Receptions will remain open from Wednesday 16 to Friday 18 December so that students and staff can pick up their belongings. A number of buildings will remain open for work that has to be carried out on location. Which buildings these are will be announced as soon as possible.
Canteens All canteens close. There is, however, the possibility to buy food to take away.
Sport UM Sports is closed. Outside sports are possible with a maximum of two people.
In the coming days, more messages will follow with further information about the consequences of the lockdown for UM. Please check your mailbox regularly so that you do not miss any important information.
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