U of S delays return to class for winter term

The University of Saskatchewan is delaying the start of its winter term as the new Omicron COVID-19 variant continues to spread in other provinces across the country.

As a precautionary measure, the university is moving the start of classes from Jan. 5 to Jan. 10.

An update posted on the University of Saskatchewan website said many classes and programs will be delivered remotely temporarily.

Remote classes are expected to be in place for two weeks, until Jan. 24.

“The readiness of a shift back to in-person classes will be assessed during that time, but the expectation is a return to in-person classes as soon as safe and reasonable to do so,” the update read.

All employees who are able to work remotely are expected to do so for that period as well.

The university said additional details will be given to all students, faculty, and staff sometime after Christmas and before New Year’s Day.

The delay at the U of S mirrors a similar announcement made by the University of Regina earlier this week.

The update continued to encourage everyone to get their booster shot before returning for the winter term.

“We hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable holiday season, and we look forward to providing further updates to our USask campuses next week,” the message read.