U of S, U of R won’t require masks during fall term

The University of Saskatchewan and University of Regina won’t require students and staff to wear masks during the fall term, but face coverings are still encouraged.

In a statement, the University of Saskatchewan said its masking policy was suspended over the summer, and that pause will continue into the fall term.

While masks aren’t required at the U of S, the institution stressed that “masking is strongly preferred in all indoor spaces.” While masks won’t be required in all circumstances, they will still be required in “certain elevated risk areas or activities,” the university noted.

While the U of S mask mandate is paused, the university noted that policy could change depending on what the latest data around COVID-19 show.

“We will continue to monitor USask case numbers and service disruptions, variant emergence, wastewater viral load, and public health data and public health expertise to determine the level of health and safety measures necessary to keep the campus and broader community safe,” the statement from the university read.

“These indicators will determine if, and when, a mask mandate is resumed, and whether a potential resumption takes place in all indoor spaces or just select settings.”

Those who are sick or have been diagnosed with COVID-19 were asked to avoid the U of S campus until they have been free of symptoms for at least 24 hours.

At the University of Regina, masks will not be required during the fall term, but use of masks is still appreciated.

“Wearing a mask is no longer required in any indoor spaces on our campus, but will continue to be encouraged and welcomed,” the University of Regina said in a statement.

“Members of our campus community and visitors to the university may choose to wear a mask so please respect the choices of others.”

As students get ready to head to classes, with or without a mask, the risk of COVID is still present in Saskatchewan.

According to the latest update from Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Health, COVID activity is increasing in the province. The latest report from the ministry showed significant increases in COVID cases, deaths, hospitalizations and outbreaks.