Although we are very well prepared for online teaching, we do hope that we will be able to return to our classrooms. Should the possibility of a full return to our campuses prove to be impossible due to the pandemic, we will prioritize classroom teaching for the first and last year students. We will also ensure that all practical classes and workshops take place on campus.
If the continuation of online education is necessary, we will offer diverse forms of teaching, including hybrid and hybrid flexible (HyFlex) courses. We have equipped classrooms in our campuses in the latest equipment for online teaching and internet access. Our lecturers are constantly learning new skills of using online tools and expanding their competencies in online teaching methodology.
Throughout SWPS University, we have adopted a few rules, which we will follow also in the upcoming academic year. Firstly, safety and health. We will monitor and minimize the risks arising from the pandemic and prevent them. Our safety is also dependent on the efficacy of the immunization program. We encourage everyone who can be vaccinated to do so. Immunization is not just a personal decision. It also helps to ensure the health and safety of others.
Secondly, faithfulness to our mission of creating the best possible conditions for education, work and development. We will teach, learn and work differently - but still as effectively as ever. We are traditional in the way we set goals for education and work, and innovative in the way we pursue them.
Thirdly, flexibility. We are preparing for teaching in our classrooms, however, we will actively respond to he changing conditions resulting from the pandemic. The implemented solutions are and will be developed with the participation of various stakeholders and will respect their needs, decision powers and level of responsibility. That is why specific solutions relating to the organization of teaching will vary depending on the faculty, program, mode and year of study.
Fourthly, community. We must be together. This is yet another year that will require of us - the entire community of SWPS University - to cooperate, communicate well, be ready for change, but also to be tolerant, open and sensitive. We will continue to initiate and promote activities conducive to mutual support and assistance.
The previous semester proved that we are able to take advantage of modern technologies in teaching and working. We familiarized ourselves with, and indeed grew accustomed to, functioning in virtual space. However, in the academic environment we want to build relationships and collaborate also in a more direct manner - in physical space on our campuses.
I am certain that the upcoming academic year will not only bring us new experiences, but will also enhance our skills and strengthen the university community. Our open and creative academic team has always risen to any new challenges with excellent results. I hope to see you soon.