UJ latest to adopt mandatory vaccine policy

The decision follows a council meeting last week. 

The policy takes effect in January next tear where staff, postdoctoral research fellows, and students will need to provide UJ with their vaccine certificate before gaining access to any campus.  

The policy will also apply to contractors and visitors. 

UJ spokesperson Herman Esterhuizen confirmed the move on Friday.

“This outcome will ensure that the University’s staff, postdoctoral research fellows, and students have optimal access to the University’s precincts for purposes of working, learning, research, laboratory, and clinical work whilst protecting the health and safety of the University community and its stakeholders.  

“The need for optimal access to the campuses and facilities has become crucial in part because of the socioeconomic circumstances of the University’s students. Additionally, some learning programmes require in-person engagement for research and experiential learning,” says Esterhuizen.

The university also plans to make its campuses and facilities vaccination sites. 

Esterhuizen adds exemptions, based on medical or religious grounds, will be considered on a case-by-case basis.  

Earlier this year, Discovery got the ball rolling with the controversial policy.

Wits University, UCT and Rhodes University and Old Mutual followed suite. 

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