As students across the country get ready to begin or continue their higher education, Southampton's two universities have released a joint student commitment to underline the important role they can play to ensure the safety of themselves and others during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As part of joining their institutions, students are being asked to read the commitment, which now forms part of each university's student charter, or code of conduct, and make sure they understand their responsibilities during this challenging time.
Professor Mark E. Smith CBE, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Southampton, comments: "The re-opening of the University of Southampton is vitally important for the education of thousands of new and returning students. It will allow us to open our labs to resume our world-leading research and the return of students will bring a much-needed boost to the economy of the city.
"We have worked tirelessly to create a COVID-secure environment for our students to study and live in, and where our staff can work. We are making it clear to all our students that they should show respect to our local communities [Southampton and Winchester] and follow our student charter and the latest COVID-19 government guidance and advice."
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Professor Karen Stanton, Vice-Chancellor of Solent University, says: "We are asking our students to adhere to this commitment to protect themselves and others, as well as helping to keep our universities open during this difficult time.
"Our aim is to produce graduates who can achieve their ambitions, and benefit both industry and the community. As well as giving them the opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills to succeed in their chosen careers, we support them in becoming responsible citizens and future leaders."
If students are found to be falling short of the standards we expect then the universities may have to invoke disciplinary procedures. Both institutions will continue to work closely with local police to address any problems as they arise and minimise risk to the entire Southampton community.
