The first of more than 10 COVID-19 pop-up vaccination sites was launched on Monday (8 November 2021) on the main campus of Stellenbosch University (SU). Unvaccinated students and staff can now be jabbed before the end of the examinations.
The first pop-up vaccination site was launched at the Schumann Building. Joshua Eva, a former Prim Committee vice-chair was one of the first students who visited the pop-up site to be vaccinated.
“I was in the building for class and quickly popped in. I haven't gone for the injection because I avoid long queues. This pop-up site is very convenient," Eva said.
Eva, a postgraduate student in Financial Analysis, supports vaccinations and believes it is the responsible thing to do. Eva said that although he is young and healthy, he received the vaccination because he wants to make South Africa safer for all. “I received the vaccine because I want to make my contribution to our country," he said.
He said he was also motivated by his parents, who both have health conditions, to receive the vaccination.
Dr Melissa Janse van Vuren, the coordinator of the pop-up sites, has encouraged staff and students to make use of the pop-up vaccination sites. Both the Johnson and Johnson (J&J) and Pfizer vaccine are available at the site, and individuals can choose their vaccination.
The Johnson and Johnson (J&J) consist of one shot, while the Pfizer consists of two shots, which are administered 42 days apart.
The easily accessible sites will be rotated between three buildings and operate from 09:30–14:00 until 30 November 2021.
The schedule for the sites is as follows:
Monday (8, 15, 22 and 29 November): Schumann Building, second floor (Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences) in Bosman Street
Tuesday (9, 16, 23 and 30 November): General Engineering Building, first floor, in Banghoek Road
Wednesday (10 and 17 November and Thursday, 25 November): Adam Small Theatre Complex, foyer, in Victoria Street.
Please note that you must be registered on the EDVS system. Students and staff must also remember to bring along their ID, student, or staff card, and, if applicable, medical aid card.
Each person reacts differently to the COVID-19 vaccination. Therefore, students are advised to visit a pop-up vaccination site after an exam rather than directly prior to writing an exam in case they experience any side effects.
