Fanshawe College is the latest post-secondary institution to cancel classes amid concerns about COVID-19.
The college announced Friday afternoon that classes will be cancelled from March 16-20.
“The health and safety of our students is my priority,” said Fanshawe President Peter Devlin. “The College has been monitoring the COVID-19 situation and has been working closely with the Middlesex-London Health Unit (MLHU) and the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities.”
Beyond March 20, the college is looking at developing other ways of delivering course content. In a statement issued Friday, it said it will try to offer as much on-line learning as possible. Online classes are scheduled to begin on March 23, while in-person classes are expected to resume on April 6.
The college also announced that co-op and job placements may continue, depending on the wishes of the employer. College buildings and facilities will stay open, as will student residences, the library, study labs, lounges, and the Student Wellness Centre. However, all college events and intramural sports are cancelled until further notice.
"The College has implemented additional measures to ensure student and staff safety including enhanced cleaning protocols in all of our locations, with particular focus on high traffic and high contact areas," a statement from the college said. "The College has added additional housekeeping staff to ensure all high-touch surfaces are frequently cleaned and disinfected. Fanshawe is following Public Health Ontario’s guidance for Cleaning and Disinfection for Public Spaces to address COVID-19."