Covid and Universities, the possibility of remote exams and degrees is back

With the increase of Covid infections, due to the Omicron variant, the possibility of remote exams and graduation returns. The Ministry of University and Research, in view of the resumption of activities, has sent a note to all universities regarding the conduct of the next tests, graduation sessions and exams. In particular, while the provision of the decree law of 6 August 2021 remains valid, for which “the teaching and curricular activities of universities are carried out primarily in the presence”, taking into account the current evolution of the epidemiological framework, the ministry has provided that, in totally exceptional and where it is not possible to guarantee attendance, the universities may provide for the remote conduct of the tests, graduation sessions and exams scheduled for the January and February sessions, ensuring compliance with the specifications training needs of students with disabilities and students with specific learning disabilities. All this will be possible, as has already happened in other peaks of contagion, using specific procedures and technologies, which guarantee the identification of the candidate, the quality and fairness of the test and the correct recording of the final grade. The ministry also recalls that the Council of Ministers meeting yesterday, Wednesday 5 January, approved the extension of the vaccination obligation, without age limits, to all staff working in universities and institutions of higher artistic education, music and dance. For students, however, the previous green pass obligation continues to apply.