Confirmed: Soton’s graduation still postponed, despite lockdown lifting on June 21st

The government announced on Monday that all restrictions could be lifted in June


The University of Southampton has confirmed this year’s graduation ceremonies will still be postponed, despite Boris Johnson’s announcement that all restrictions could be lifted by late June.

A University of Southampton spokesperson told the Soton Tab: “Following the announcement of the government’s roadmap for easing current Covid-19 restrictions, we continue to plan for a safe, gradual return to campus for our students and staff. This will take place over an extended period, with the utmost care taken to ensure our campuses are Covid-secure.”

The university regrets having to postponed graduation but said: “Graduation is a complex event requiring a great deal of planning in advance.

“Ensuring it is held safely is a top priority and while it is hoped under government plans that larger social gatherings may be possible by late June, there are many targets to be met before then and we do not have confirmation that social distancing will not be a feature of the ongoing restrictions, which would have the effect of reducing capacity significantly.”

The university confirmed it plans to invite students to online graduation ceremonies in late summer or autumn and that it hopes to hold in-person graduation ceremonies as soon as it is safe to do so.

Last year’s graduation ceremonies were also postponed.

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