This morning, Premier Doug Ford declared a state of emergency for the province in an effort to fight the spread of the COVID-19 virus and protect the health and well-being of all Ontarians.
New measures include the closure of public libraries, child care centres, arts and recreational facilities, bars and restaurants and other venues where people congregate in significant numbers. All organized public events of more than 50 people are prohibited.
In alignment with these measures and the guidance provided by public health authorities, all Conestoga campuses will be closed to students and visitors effective immediately and until further notice.
Employees - with the exception of those engaged in delivering essential services or completing critical tasks that cannot otherwise be completed - will work remotely as we make every effort to support social distancing and limit the number of people on campus.
We are strongly encouraging all students who can do so to make arrangements to move out of residence by Saturday, March 21. We will continue to provide residence accommodation for international students and others who are unable to relocate at this time.
This is a rapidly changing situation and Conestoga’s plans will continue to evolve in the coming days. Students and employees will receive direct communications with more specific information as it becomes available.
There have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 within the Conestoga community, and the risk remains low on our campuses. Today’s measures are precautionary and aligned with the latest recommendations from Canada’s public health authorities.
The safety and well-being of all members of the Conestoga community continues to be our top priority. We continue to monitor the situation and will continue to provide information and updates through the college website.