Although spring is the season of renewal and fresh starts, I'm afraid much of our focus remains on an issue that has been concerning everyone around the world these last few months - slowing the spread of COVID-19 and keeping our communities safe.
Japan has not seen an explosive spread of coronavirus infection or medical collapse like some countries have. But as infection cases are rising, things could get critical unless we remain careful, vigilant and socially responsible.
This is an especially important time for our university community, as we welcome new students and staff to a new academic year. I have therefore established the Tohoku University Coronavirus Countermeasures Committee, which is tasked with finding ways to keep everyone safe while ensuring that we maintain the highest quality of education. The committee will also implement safety measures in line with the recommendations of medical experts.
In February and March, we temporarily closed public facilities, cancelled or postponed university events and asked that students refrain from extracurricular and club activities.
As we approach April, we moved the main orientation sessions online, and are exploring ways that classes can also be conducted remotely. To give everyone time to adjust to the changes, we have pushed back the start of classes for the spring semester to April 20.
In the meantime, there are things that you can do as well:
1. Please refrain from all unnecessary travel. This includes domestic and overseas trips. If travel is absolutely necessary, please consult your department ahead of time. If there is any international travel involved, please note that quarantine measures - including a two-week observation period regardless of where you travel in from - will be strictly enforced.
2. Take extra daily precautions to guard against infectious diseases. Wash your hands often and thoroughly, use hand disinfectant or sanitizer, cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and make sure the rooms you are in are properly ventilated.
3. Please avoid large crowds and gatherings. For staff, researchers and students who have meetings, please use ICT such as Skype or FaceTime. Hanami parties will not be allowed on campus grounds this year.
4. Be aware of your own condition. If you feel unwell or have symptoms such as a fever or cough, stay home and follow the guidelines issued by our Department of Workplace Safety and Health (PDF).
5. Don't be fooled by unfounded rumours or inaccurate information. Stay alert, be careful, but stay calm. Tohoku University will continue to provide new and updated information on our official websites (English, Japanese) so please check back regularly.
For the foreseeable future, there will be some restriction of movements and it's understandable that some of you might be worried about how they will affect your way of life. I think this is an opportunity for all of us to reconsider what we have always thought normal, and find new ways to be both comfortable and safe.
As always, the university's decisions are made with the safety of our students, staff and community in mind. These are anxious times, but we are in it together.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.