To further safeguard the health of students, faculty members, and staff, The University of Winnipeg will require proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 to attend campus this fall.
"Our long-awaited return to in-person learning is nearing and we want to ensure it will be safe and successful. Manitoba infection rates have plummeted, and people are finally feeling optimistic about the future we need to keep it that way. Vaccines are the best protection we have against COVID-19. By ensuring that everyone on campus is protected, we go the extra mile to keep Manitoba healthy and increase the likelihood of an even fuller campus reopening for the winter term," said Dr. James Currie, Interim President and Vice-Chancellor.
Surveys conducted in recent days showed that 79% of UWinnipeg faculty and staff members and 72% of students who participated in the online questionnaire support a vaccination requirement to attend campus. Of the survey respondents, 92% of students and 97% of faculty/staff are fully or partly vaccinated.
Currently, 81% of eligible Manitobans have had their first dose and 74% have had both doses. In Winnipeg, the vaccination rate is nearly 84% indicating the vast majority already meet the campus requirement. Anyone who cannot be vaccinated due to health reasons will be exempt from the mandate, upon medical verification.
The UWinnipeg campus will remain closed to the public for the fall term. Students, faculty members, and staff who are authorized to be on site will enter via controlled access points. All must show proof of full vaccination or attest to becoming fully vaccinated and provide proof within a specified timeframe. The University will consider options such as remote learning/working or attending campus with proof of a negative COVID test for those who do not comply.
In addition to the vaccination mandate, UWinnipeg's robust return-to-campus safety plan includes other key measures such as mandatory masking, enhanced cleaning, and an upgraded ventilation system.
"Our vaccination requirement may inconvenience a few people, but it will give peace of mind to many. Above all, we believe it is the right thing to do. Hopefully, this mandate will motivate everyone in our community to consider the safety of themselves and others so that we may all feel positive about returning to campus," said Dr. Currie.
The vaccination mandate does not apply to high school students who attend the UWinnipeg Collegiate. It does not apply to fitness centre members and external organizations that arrange to use space within the Axworthy Health & RecPlex.
