Prior to the start of this semester, we lost two members of the Ashesi community to COVID19: Board member, Patrick Nutor; and Associate Dean of Student Life and Engagement, Frances Awuah-Kyerematen. In the weeks since, we have received news of losses of close family and friends of various members of our community. I extend sincere condolences to everyone grieving, and I wish us all strength to navigate these difficult times. To those recovering from the virus or who have close associates doing so, I pray for a strong recovery.

As we stand with those dealing with the pandemic’s fallout – within Ashesi and beyond – I must reemphasise the importance of taking COVID-19 protocols and precautions seriously. We remain committed to doing all we can to keep moving forward in our work while supporting the safety and wellbeing of everyone. We ask that each one of us play our part in this commitment and encourage our friends and family to do the same.

Updates on Limited Campus Re-Opening: COVID-19 Tests for Students, Faculty, Staff & Contractors
With the option to return to campus housing, 213 students moved into student dorms the week of January 11, 2021. Measures have been put in place to support physical distancing and safety on campus. Regular student services like dining are up and running. All classes continue to be conducted online. Before moving in, COVID-19 tests were conducted for all students and staff that work with students.

Out of the 213 tests conducted for students in Ghana, 10 (4.7%) on campus were positive for COVID-19. All had no visible symptoms. The University has provided individual accommodation on campus for students who tested positive, all of whom are currently receiving treatment from the University health team with guidance from the Ghana Health Service.

Contact tracing identified 8 other students who had spent time with some of the 10 students who tested positive on campus. As a precautionary measure, all 8 students were also provided individual accommodation on campus. They have now tested negative for the virus a week later and have all been cleared.

Currently, the remaining 10 isolated students on campus are doing well and will be retesting before the end of January to determine a safe return to the general population.

Of the international students who were returning to Ghana, 1 tested positive at Ghana’s airport and received care from the Government; and 6 tested positive in their home countries. All 7 students have since tested negative and have been cleared.

Testing for Faculty, Staff & Contractors:
68 tests were also conducted for university staff, faculty and third-party service providers working on campus. We recorded 3 positive tests – 1 member of staff and 2 third-party service providers – who also went into isolation. All three have since been retested and 2 have tested negative and been discharged. A member of our third-party provider team is still testing positive and will continue to receive treatment.

We are extremely thankful to each one of you, especially those who underwent tests and have had to spend time in isolation, for your cooperation. We are also thankful to our healthcare team for providing round-the-clock support and monitoring.

Looking Ahead
We will continue sharing public updates on how Ashesi is navigating this crisis and invite your support in doing so. We must continue to be vigilant in the work to beat COVID-19 and protect family, friends, and colleagues. We must not drop our guard. If you experience signs of illness, please report to the nearest approved clinic for a professional diagnosis. Do not self-medicate or assume you have malaria. The individual and collective choices we make at this time will affect many lives, and I cannot think of a time when our honour code could provide more inspiration to others than this.

To students, we would appreciate your continued partnership in strengthening our online learning experience. Please continue sharing feedback with your faculty, student council representatives, and the Provost. If you are so inclined, do share feedback with me as well.

To faculty and staff, I continue to be grateful for your commitment to our students and our mission. As we plan for Ashesi’s next decade, I look forward to your insights on what lessons we can take from this period to strengthen our work and impact.

Stay home. Wear your masks and maintain physical distancing if you must be out of the home. Keep your hands clean. Stay safe, and protect the lives of family, friends, and colleagues.