Graduates to leave without their hats on
THE University of Tasmania’s decision to cancel graduation ceremonies in Hobart and Launceston has left hundreds of students with little to celebrate.
A recent email announcement from UTAS professor Jane Long has confirmed the winter round ceremonies scheduled for August would not go ahead in light of coronavirus, with a question mark also looming over the December summer round.
Prof Long expressed “deep disappointment” for students and staff over the decision.
“These are occasions the whole university values as moments where we can come together and publicly celebrate your achievements,” she said. “We are operating at this time with the health and safety of our staff and students, and the wider community, as our highest priority.”
She said graduands would be contacted in late June to receive their official academic documents via mail, and would be asked for informal feedback on whether they would like to attend a future ceremony.
“This will enable us to forecast the number of additional ceremonies we may need to add,” she said.
Bachelor of Biotechnology and Medical Research student Ashani Gunaseelan said she and her family were upset she would have to wait to don her gown and lilac sash.
“They’re doing the right thing, but from another perspective it’s a bit frustrating and sad,” she said.
“Obviously, you want to dress up in the gown and your hat and get excited with your family.”
She said she would attend a future ceremony given the chance, but said it “wouldn’t feel the same” celebrating months after her final exam.
She said a shortage of graduate jobs in her field and uncertainty over her lab exams also left her “in limbo”.
Prof Long said she was sorry COVID-19 was negatively impacting students.
“While it may change the ways in which we celebrate, it does not lessen the pride our graduands should feel at their achievements,” she said.