The notice, signed by UVI President David Hall, was sent out on Friday, June 25, 2021.

The decision comes as universities across the United States (US) are implementing similar decisions.

According to President of the University of the Virgin Islands David Hall, decision was made based on what the Board felt was in the best interest of the entire UVI Community.

The balancing act

According to Mr Hall, "This decision was made based on what the Board felt was in the best interest of the entire UVI Community. This is also a national trend wherein approximately 500 universities and colleges have also embraced mandatory vaccinations in one form or another," he said.

"As the only institution of higher education in the Territory, the University's mission is to make education accessible to Virgin Islanders. Yet it also has a responsibility to create a safe environment for students and employees. The Board is striving through this policy to be respectful of both values."

Access to vaccines

According to UVI, students who do not have access to the vaccines will be provided their first shot up on arrival on campus and are required to commit to regular testing until they are fully vaccinated.

The effective dates for compliance with the mandatory vaccination requirement are as follows:

Students: August 9, 2021
Staff: August 1, 2021
Faculty: August 11. 2021

Consequences

Students and staff who chose not to comply with the vaccine requirement will face consequences as unvaccinated students will not be allowed to attend in-person classes.

Online programmes will remain an alternative option, although not all classes will offer a remote-learning option.