Universities, cultural spaces shut down as COVID surges

The New Arab 27 January 2022

As part of measures to curb the spread of the coronavirus as cases continue to surge, most universities in Algeria have suspended in-person teaching until the beginning of February, an education ministry official told state media on Wednesday 26 January, reports The New Arab.

At an emergency meeting held last week in response to climbing Omicron infections, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune said a decision to stop face-to-face teaching could be made by university management, taking exam timetables and other factors into account. Following that meeting, schools across the country were closed for 10 days to curb the spread of the virus. On Tuesday, the country’s culture ministry announced museums, cinemas, libraries and other sites would be shut to the public “until the health situation improves”.

Algeria has seen coronavirus cases surge since the beginning of 2021. The country’s health ministry announced on Tuesday 25 January that it had recorded 2,521 cases in 24 hours. The government has asked major institutions including universities to encourage staff to get vaccinated, and organise vaccination drives for employees.
Full report on The New Arab site

Receive UWN's free weekly e-newsletters

A new global university ranking with an ethical mission

Aftab Dean

A new university ranking system aims to serve as a catalyst for positive transformation in higher education, ensuring that universities create an environment grounded in integrity and sustainability that inspires and supports students and staff in the development of novel solutions to global challenges.

Promoted by Globethics.net.

SDG progress report launches university into new territory

University of Pretoria staff

In the publication of its first progress report on its contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals, the University of Pretoria is navigating new territory at the same time as it is acknowledging its clear stewardship role in protecting the environment and biodiversity.

Promoted by the University of Pretoria.

Researchers in the UAE tackle water scarcity at its core

UAE University staff

Water scarcity has long been an issue in countries such as the United Arab Emirates. But the country’s National Water and Energy Center, based at the United Arab Emirates University, is providing solutions for the efficient exploration, development, use, storage and sustainability of the precious resource.

Promoted by United Arab Emirates University.