University of Otago human resources director Kevin Seales said the university was working with staff affected by government vaccination mandates for healthcare, school and early education workers and people working in prisons.
The specific status of other university staff in regard to vaccinations was still being decided by the Government, he said.
University of Otago roles for which vaccination is mandatory now include health practitioners, staff who carry out work where health services are provided to members of the public, staff working in healthcare related buildings/facilities or entering them to carry out work (including contractors), and care and support workers.
Staff whose work takes them into schools and/or early childhood centres will also be affected, as will staff whose work takes them into prisons.
‘‘The university is holding a staff forum this week to share further information about these mandatory vaccinations and the impact on affected staff.’’
The university was awaiting government advice on whether students, including residents at university-owned residential colleges, would need to be vaccinated.
Otago Polytechnic was also still awaiting advice from the Government.
Chief executive Dr Megan Gibbons said it was not limiting access to campus based on vaccination status, and not generally asking staff or students to declare their vaccination status.
‘‘We are supporting staff to exercise their rights to get vaccinated, allowing them to get vaccinated within working hours without requiring them to take time off.’’
Some staff and students were covered by existing vaccine mandates.
The University of Auckland recently confirmed it will institute a Covid-19 vaccine mandate for all on-campus students and staff, and even for campus visitors.
University vice-chancellor Dawn Freshwater said those wishing to engage in face-to-face learning would need to have both jabs by January 4.
‘‘We all very much want to return to a normal university experience for our students and staff, and we believe a vaccine policy such as this is the best way to keep everyone safe,’’ she said.
‘‘... it's important to note that the policy does not force anyone to get vaccinated. ... if you make that choice then you need to be aware that it will carry consequences and limit your ability to take part in university activities.’’ — Additional reporting The New Zealand Herald
