On March 13, Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) has taken a multi-pronged approach to resume on-campus operations and research at a faster pace amid the battle against the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

University Council Chairperson Guo Yurong and President Chen Shiyi inspected the on-campus operations for recommencement. Other leadership figures joined them as they checked laboratories, student dormitories, and departmental offices.

The leaders received a briefing at every laboratory they visited, understanding their processes for maintaining laboratory safety during the current situation. They hoped that scientific research would continue unabated while ensuring the safety of all research personnel.

The Student Affairs Center introduced its work supporting students’ current and future needs, particularly those students who are due to graduate in just a few months. Chairperson Guo Yurong reviewed security measures that remain in place at Gate 1 before the delegation met with several departments to discuss the ongoing work to protect the SUSTech community. She supported their continuous and unrelenting fight against COVID-19 that has allowed teaching and scientific research to continue.

President Chen Shiyi spoke with laboratory managers, encouraging them to optimize their staffing and equipment systems further. He supported the scientific management of the laboratories to ensure the continuation of high-impact research across campus.

Despite the challenges arising from the outbreak of COVID-19, SUSTech has sought to minimize the impact of COVID-19 while adjusting to the new paradigms associated with it. The movement to online teaching, combined with modifications to the scientific research management systems, have resulted in SUSTech quickly adapting to the new situation while preparing to return to normality in due course.

Departments across campus have worked relentlessly to provide a safe campus under the guidance of the COVID-19 Working Group, led by Chairperson and President. The clear communication channels have provided the entire SUSTech community with the correct information, with news delivered promptly.