COVID-19 Update for Sept. 13: NAIT joins 8 other Alberta post-secondary institutions to introduce a vaccine mandate
Posted: Sep 13, 2021 10:43 AM
| Updated: Mar 10, 2022 1:44 PM
NAIT has joined the University of Alberta, University of Calgary, University of Lethbridge, MacEwan University, Mount Royal University, SAIT, Medicine Hat College and NorQuest College to introduce a vaccine mandate and require proof of vaccination.
Vaccinations are the safest and most effective way to protect communities from COVID-19. Vaccines have been a critical part of fall safety plans at Alberta post-secondary institutions. Today, we are building on previously announced measures by strengthening the role that vaccinations will play at NAIT.
Along with 8 other Alberta post-secondary institutions, we are introducing the following enhancements to our campus safety measures:
- Everyone coming to NAIT campuses, including students, staff, contractors and visitors, will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
- Everyone coming to NAIT campuses will be required to provide proof of vaccination.
- Rapid testing will not be accepted as an alternative to vaccination, except for campus community members who cannot be vaccinated based on medical or other protected grounds outlined in the Alberta Human Rights Act.
We know you have many questions about this announcement. NAIT’s COVID-19 Advisory Committee and the Coordinated Response Team are working to finalize implementation dates and details for the vaccine mandate and proof of vaccination requirement for the fall term. We will share more information with you as soon as we can in the coming days. Details for students who wish to withdraw from their classes will be communicated as soon as possible this week.
In the meantime, members of the campus community should get fully vaccinated as soon as possible. Those who still need a first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine should get one immediately. Visit the Government of Alberta’s vaccine page to book your shot and for more information about the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines.
Additionally, NAIT is working with Alberta Health Services to offer on-campus vaccination clinics on September 22 and 23. Please note that appointments are limited, so book your shot now.
NAIT will evaluate and accommodate those who are unable to be vaccinated against COVID-19 either through medical or other exemption. More information about how to seek an accommodation will be provided as soon as possible.
Campus safety is a shared responsibility
Alberta’s post-secondary institutions are working together and taking a coordinated approach to ensure safety on our campuses for students, staff, contractors and visitors this fall, and beyond. The safety of our large, diverse communities has been our top consideration when making both short-term and long-term plans throughout the pandemic.
You can find the latest information on NAIT’s response to COVID-19 at nait.ca/covid19.
We will continue to monitor and update our measures as the pandemic evolves. As always, we appreciate your patience and understanding as we respond to the ever-changing realities of COVID-19.
Thank you for continuing to do your part to keep the NAIT community compassionate, healthy and safe.
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