Tuesday, 24 March

15:40

Last night, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a countrywide lockdown, commencing at midnight, Thursday, 26 March, until 16 April 2020.

This is to contain the spread of the virus and “flatten the curve”. This means that, apart from certain exempt sectors, no one will be allowed to leave their houses, except to buy food or seek medical attention.

UCT requires every student – including those with prior permission to stay – to return home as soon as possible. It is now a legal imperative that all residences close.

All students must leave by 17:00 hours on Wednesday, 25 March. At that time all residences will be locked down, electronic access will be removed and Wi-Fi, electricity and water will be shut off.

UCT will provide travel assistance for students unable to pay for their departure. We will engage with foreign embassies to ensure that international students return safely to their countries.

In addition, no staff will be allowed in any UCT building, including residences. All academic activities, including research, will also cease.

Please support the country and one another to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 epidemic.

Read the full VC desk.