Disaster Management Act, 2002 (Act No. 57 of 2002)NoticesDirections on a National Framework and Criteria for the management of the 2021 Academic Year in Public and Private Higher Education Institutions3. Social solidarity |
| 3.1 | The pandemic's current trajectory indicates that the second "wave" is more substantial than the first. There are indications that there will be a third "wave" later in the year. It is therefore necessary to exercise the utmost caution and care. The primary consideration of saving lives while ensuring a successful 2021 academic year must remain foremost in institutional planning. Sufficient care must be taken to build a social compact amongst all members of HEIs communities relating to the responsibilities of each person in ensuring that there are no further outbreaks of COVID-19. Clear communication and protocols must remain in place and a focus on social solidarity, which recognises that all communities remain at risk and require shared responsibility to mitigate the effects of the pandemic. |
| 3.2 | It is recommended that a social compact be signed between Vice-Chancellors, SRC leadership, and trade union leadership, among others, which foregrounds cooperation in mitigating the risk of spreading the virus. |