As you are hopefully aware, the Student Guild (board members and staff) are here to represent your student voice on campus and to ensure that student interests are being met in every aspect of your university experience. The current situation on campus and in the broader community is one of uncertainty and significant change.

While most individuals and groups have well-founded and legitimate concerns about what COVID-19 means for them personally, professionally and academically, there is also a lot of misinformation circulating that is adding to anxiety and confusion within our community. To that end, and on behalf of the Student Guild, I wanted to clarify the Guild’s position regarding the measures being taken on campus.

The Guild is supportive of the measures being taken by Griffith University. The University has been following government and expert advice to formulate up-to-date responses that are in-line with best-practice guidelines, and that prioritise the health and wellbeing of students and staff. The University has cancelled large gatherings and is preparing to transition the majority of its academic services online in anticipation of medium to long-term impacts of COVID-19. For the most up-to-date information on the University’s measures, advice and support services please visit griffith.edu.au/coronavirus/information-for-students

The situation over the past few weeks has been evolving rapidly, and the University has been working hard to keep students and staff healthy, but also to ensure that as many students as possible are able to continue their academic studies with minimal disruption, distress or disadvantage. For up-to-date information on changes to your studies please keep an eye on your student email for advice from your relevant course convenors.

Again, whilst the Guild is supportive of the overall approach being taken by the University, we also play an important role as your voice on campus. The Guild is here to advocate for your interests as a student body and will continue to act for students in our discussions with the University. If you have particular concerns, please contact guildinfo@griffith.edu.au or send us a message on Facebook or Instagram.

On a final note, if you are experiencing anxiety or emotional distress in relation to the current situation, support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at Griffith Mental Wellbeing Support Line 1300 785 442, and through services such as Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636.

Please stay safe. Take care of yourselves and each other.

Jordan Jansen
President
Student Guild – Griffith University Gold Coast

Posted 11.30 am Thursday 19 March, 2020