Otago Polytechnic is going old-school to entertain students who are isolating because of Covid-19.
Board games, playing cards, and books are some of the things on offer.
Otago Polytechnic chief executive Megan Gibbons said the institute was well aware that students’ mental and social wellbeing needed support. The polytechnic had ensured the health and safety of learners now that Covid-19 was an active presence in the community, she said.
The polytechnic is also supplying students in isolation with food, medicine, hygiene products, and other essential items.
"A key part of what we are doing is helping students stay entertained beyond binge-watching television shows," Dr Gibbons said.
The polytechnic was asking staff to donate such entertainments as board games, novels, and playing cards. Volunteer service teams would then distribute them to students.
Teams were monitoring the wellbeing of isolating students daily and making sure they had access to what they needed, she said.
"We acknowledge this is a stressful time.
"We urge students who feel anxious or need support to reach out to our student support teams," Dr Gibbons said.
