U of S reviewing in-person learning for January due to Omicron concerns

The University of Saskatchewan has not decided whether classes will go ahead in person in January as scheduled.

Dr. Darcy Marciniuk, chair of the Pandemic Response and Recovery Team at the U of S, said in a statement the university is monitoring the spread of Omicron closely and currently reviewing the university’s plans for the winter term.

“At this time, based on the most recent information and data available, USask’s current plans for the winter term, starting January 4, are being reviewed,” Marciniuk said in his statement.

He says students will be told of any changes to online learning before January.

“The experience we have gained through different phases of the pandemic allows the university to make changes in class delivery where necessary while protecting the integrity of learning outcomes and prioritizing program requirement,” Marciniuk said.

The University of Regina just announced its return to in-person classes will be delayed for two more weeks in the new year because of the uncertainty of the Omicron variant.

The start of classes at the U of R has been delayed until Jan. 10 from Jan. 5 and will remain online through Jan. 22.

Marciniuk said it is expected that any changes to in-class delivery and university operations will be temporary, with plans to return to in-person learning as soon as it is safe.

An update from the U of S is expected next week that would incorporate any newly announced public health directives.