Rector’s letter on current COVID-19 situation

Deeply concerned, we all observe the next wave of COVID-19 cases unleash, caused by the new Sars-Cov-2 coronavirus variant. We are constantly monitoring the status of infections and quarantines among members of the AGH UST community and weigh the risks of it impeding the functioning of the university. We are also updating our procedures regularly so that they mirror the changing state regulations and take into consideration the needs of the AGH UST as an institution, as well as the personal needs of the members of our academic community.

It is true that the current epidemic situation at our university shows an increase in cases reported among members of our academic community; however, the numbers do not yet imply the risk of serious threats to the performance of basic academic tasks.

Notably, as has been scheduled, the current week (27 January) marks the end of classes for students; which will be followed by an examination session and an inter-semester break until February 27, 2022.

Therefore, we are approaching a time when the intensity of meetings and everyday contacts will be diminished; a time that luckily coincides with the anticipated peak of the current wave.

The efficiency of university functioning during the coronavirus pandemic has been based on the following premises:

• Organisational system that encompasses physical protection of the university and the academic community against the spread of the virus
• Coherent and clear system of internal rules and regulations related to the pandemic that make it possible to flexibly adjust to external conditions
• Responsibility of the AGH UST academic community that finds reflection in the high degree of vaccination against COVID-19 among our employees, students, and doctoral students
• Constant use of personal protection measures on the premises of the university, respect for the organisational restrictions introduced, especially those related to avoiding showing up on the university premises with noticeable infection symptoms, etc.

The current status of our university shows that the measures adopted do work.

I kindly inform you that, in an attempt to adjust the functioning of the AGH UST to the changing external conditions, I have issued another update of the organisational regulations related to the day-to-day university operation. I have established special provisions for conditions and circumstances that, due to reasons related to the pandemic, allow for local changes in the form of carrying out tasks (switching to remote work). Similar rules proved to be efficient during this semester, and therefore they will remain in force also during the coming examination session. I am also convinced that they will remain functional during the next month, that is, until 27 February.

Importantly, only the on-site functioning of the university provides the desired high-quality performance, making it possible to complete all tasks fully and on time. With this in mind, we also want to enter the summer semester, which begins on February 28, 2022.

I give myself permission to express the confidence that, as until now, due to our joint dedication, the functioning of the AGH UST will not be disturbed.

To all Members of the AGH UST Community, please accept my gratitude for your ongoing responsible attitude, involvement, and patience in these difficult times.

Professor Jerzy Lis
AGH UST Rector