New ways of working to support UCT’s COVID-19 response

Working from home

In line with the principle of social distancing, UCT is redefining the workplace and encouraging wo rking from home where appropriate. This means that staff will be authorised to do so by their line managers and are legally protected in terms of the relevant legislation, while remaining subject to UCT’s staffing policies and protocols.

In the context of what we are facing, staff in management positions are called upon to act with due urgency; demonstrate their leadership in dealing with COVID-19 and its complexities; demonstrate due care for staff; be flexible while making balanced managerial decisions; ensure that staff take personal responsibility to meet deliverables and work closely with their line managers to ensure accountability.

Ensuring the success of this approach will require alternative ways of working: prioritising electronic communication and other online functionality, holding online meetings and hosting consultations via email/circular.

UCT’s extensive remote working toolkit enables colleagues to remain productive while working off campus. The toolkit, which is available on the Information and Communication Technology Services web page, considers essential elements, such as security, connectivity, email and calendar access, and real-time communication.

Find out more about flexible working at UCT.