Stellenbosch University (SU) constituted a Contingency Committee a month ago to coordinate the University’s preparedness for a possible local corona virus (COVID-19) outbreak. On Wednesday 11 March 2020 the World Health Organisation declared the outbreak a global pandemic.
Based on this declaration, advice from the Contingency Committee, and the best available information from the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), it was decided to cancel the graduation ceremonies scheduled for the week of 31 March to 3 April. This decision, which was not taken lightly, will mitigate the risks associated with large gatherings and exposure to individuals who may have travelled internationally.
We realise the importance of graduation in the lives of our students, parents, family and friends and it is regrettable that we find ourselves in this situation. The World Health Organisation has emphasised that the pandemic is a global, but also an ‘individual’ responsibility, referring to governments, companies, institutions, organisations and all citizens.
All graduands will receive their qualifications in absentia, and certificates and academic records will be made available to you during April 2020. Communication in this regard will be sent to graduands in the following week. Please also visit the
graduation webpage from 24 March 2020 for information on the relevant logistical arrangements.
The decision has been extremely difficult, but the University considers it to be the most responsible course of action. We appreciate your support and understanding for these decisions that have been taken in your best interest.
