University of Southampton postpones graduation 2021

The University of Southampton has confirmed this year’s graduation ceremonies will not go ahead as hoped due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

An email was sent to students this afternoon which said: “Given the current circumstances, we regret to inform you that Graduation will not be taking place in July and has been postponed until further notice.

“We know this will be a huge disappointment to you, your friends and family as it is for all of us at the University. We understand the importance of the degree ceremony and thoroughly enjoy celebrating with all our students. We will do all that we can to celebrate your achievement this summer, but we will also plan to invite you to a future Graduation ceremony to properly celebrate your success, when it is safe to do so.”

The university has said graduation ceremonies are postponed, not cancelled and that they “plan to run online celebrations during late summer or autumn”.

Last year’s graduation ceremonies were also postponed due to the pandemic and instead online ceremonies took place. Southampton follows as number of universities that have postponed graduation.