Uni warnings slammed as ‘draconian’
BOSSES at a Scots university have been blasted for their “draconian” actions after emailing students threatening £250 fines or even expulsion if caught in each other’s flats.
Aberdeen University warned students of the consequences facing them if they breach Covid-19 related guidance.
In a statement last night, university bosses said students caught breaking the rules would face “robust” action.
Sanctions include a fine of up to £250 as well as possible suspension or expulsion.
And private landlords around the city have been asked to report “any incidents of a breach” to the university.
The correspondence from acting director of operations, Debbie Dyker, seen by the Record, reads: “Given the events of the last few days, I want to emphasise that any breaches will not be tolerated, and those found to be breaking the rules will face robust action.
“Sanctions include a fine of up to £250 as well as the potential for further action – including suspension and/or expulsion – under our code of conduct on student discipline.
“Regardless of whether you live in university-provided accommodation, a private flat or in student accommodation from a private provider, we will still look to take the same appropriate disciplinary measures against any student that fails to follow the requirements that are in place to protect everyone in Scotland.
“We are in contact with landlords and have asked that any incidents of a breach of our Covid campus pledge and guidelines and the national guidelines are reported to the university.”
The warning comes amid a softening on students from the Scottish Government.
Students are now being told they can go home from uni halls after previously being barred.
Third year student Jack Boag, 20, told the Record: “I think it’s a case of closing the stable door after the horse has bolted, and doubling down when other universities (such as Glasgow and St Andrews) are actually rowing back on some of the ‘breaches will not be tolerated’ rhetoric.
“I first noticed it in my inbox about 7pm yesterday evening. Frankly, I was a bit shocked at how far the university have decided to take things.”
A well-placed Aberdeen University source said the email came across as “heavy handed” and “draconian”.
The source added: “It’s disappointing to see the university’s messaging more focused on punishing a handful of students than supporting those in a very difficult situation not of their making.”
A student at Edinburgh University yesterday said he and others had been left without food for days.
Reese Chamberlain, 18, was told that he would receive three meals per day while isolating but claimed he was left without anything for two days.
The international relations student from New York told John Beattie on BBC Radio Scotland: “It has been a complete disaster here at Pollock Halls.
“I have gone hungry for two days - despite constant emails and phone calls pleading for food. I know others have gone without too.”
A university spokesman said: “Initial teething problems are now being addressed and catering staff will provide three meals a day for all students living in universityprovided accommodation.”