Western University. (BlackburnNews.com file photo)Western University. (BlackburnNews.com file photo)
London

Western University moves exams online

Western University has announced most fall exams will be moving online.

The university announced the switch late Tuesday afternoon, saying the reason for the decision is due to rising concerns surrounding the Omicron variant.

Currently, Western is dealing with two COVID-19 outbreaks at on-campus residences, one at Delaware Hall and another at Saugeen-Maitland Hall.

"While our case counts remain low, we are watching what is happening across the country and have decided some proactive steps are prudent in the face of Omicron," a statement from Western University read.

Exams scheduled from December 17-23 will shift online with the exception of clinical and some other assessments that are required to be completed in-person.

Examinations scheduled for December 15 and 16 will remain in-person, unless notified. The university said students will receive additional information from their faculties soon.

"We recognize this shift to online exams may prove disruptive to some, but we continue to make the health and safety of the Western community our top priority," the statement added.

Western has previously reported a 99 per cent vaccination rate among faculty, staff, and students.

On Tuesday, the Middlesex London Health Unit reported 71 new infections. With the presence of the Omicron variant in the region, the province's top doctor has advised all local health units to treat new cases as if they are Omicron. More announcements on potential health measures are expected later this week.

Read More Local Stories