Current information on the COVID19-situation (updated 27.4. at 10:56)

This article will be updated as new information comes up.

The student union is here to support the students during this state of emergency. If you have any questions or need support, don’t hesitate to contact korona-help@trey.fi!

Event guidelines for associations and students can be read on a separate TREY news article.

Frequently updated news

Measures taken regarding the COVID-19 pandemic (this article)

Corona FAQ

TREY’s event guidelines for associations and students

Update 27.4.2022

Tampere Universities adopt THL’s recommendation on the use of face masks! All the members of the Tampere Universities community are free to decide whether to wear a face mask to protect themselves, for example, in crowded public transport and indoor settings where social distancing is difficult. Read more on the changes in the face mask recommendation on Intra. Face masks will be available from the main entrances of the campus buildings throughout the spring semester.

Update 26.4.2022

Today, 26 April, the Pirkanmaa Pandemic Control Group outlined the introduction of a face mask recommendation in Pirkanmaa that follows the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL)’s face mask recommendations: everyone can use a face mask at their own discretion to protect themselves, for example in rush vehicles and indoors where it is difficult to avoid close contact. The Pirkanmaa Pandemic Control Group decisions are available only in Finnish, but the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL)’s guidelines can be found in English in their website.

Update 23.2.2022

The Pirkanmaa Pandemic Control Group met yesterday and made new guidelines. The Pandemic Control Group will not present to the Regional State Administrative Agency an extension of the “safety distance clause” of the Communicable Diseases Act after the end of February. In addition, the Pandemic Control Group removed the recommendation on the number of people at private events. As society opens up, the individual’s responsibility to use a face mask becomes even more pronounced.

Update 18.2.2022

The management of Tampere Universities has issued new guidelines from 7 March to 15 May 2022. The Universities community returns to the campuses and transitions back to in-person teaching. The pandemic group updated the guidelines yesterday 17 February 2022.

• Face masks: Wearing a face mask is required in the indoors facilities of Tampere Universities. Face masks will be available from the main entrances on the campus buildings throughout the spring semester.
• Access rights and opening times: The campus buildings are open during the normal opening times. Outside these hours, authorised users can use their key card to enter the premises.
• Teaching and working: The Universities will return to in-person work and in-person teaching. Teaching can also be delivered in a remote or hybrid format for pedagogical reasons.
• Exams: Follow safety precautions when attending exams. The seating capacity of the electronic examination facilities is not restricted.
• Study spaces and libraries: The campus study spaces and libraries are open. Wear a face mask in all campus indoor premises.
• Events: Internal and public events can be arranged in accordance with safety instructions and authority guidelines. Event organisers are responsible for ensuring adherence to the safety precautions.
• Association facilities, restaurants and SportUni: Open as normal

The full guidelines between 7 March and 15 May 2022 can be found on Intra. The next pandemic group meeting is on 17 March 2022.

Update 17.2.2022

Pirkanmaa’s COVID-restrictions will be eased starting 19 February. The restrictions on assembly in the Pirkanmaa Hospital District will end after tomorrow, 18 February, but the regulation on the safe use of the premises will continue until the end of February. 

The University has updated the guidelines for the procedure for responding to COVID-19 cases or exposure at Tampere University. The guidelines are as follows:

Guidelines for students who have been exposed to COVID-19

1. Assess your potential exposure and contributing factors, such as your vaccination status and face mask usage.
   
2. If you have no symptoms, you can continue studying as normal. Wear a face mask, avoid close contact with others and practice good hand hygiene. Keep a safe distance from others, especially in campus restaurants, and avoid social contact for at least five days whenever possible.
3. If you have symptoms, operate in accordance with the Finnish institute of health and welfare (THL).

Guidelines for students infected with COVID-19

1. If your COVID-19 test (home test or PCR test) is positive, self-isolate to prevent spreading the infection. The day your symptoms start is day zero of isolation. Operate in accordance with the Finnish institute of health and welfare (THL).
2. The public health authorities recommend people infected with COVID-19 to notify others of potential exposure.
3. After self-isolating for five days, you can return to your studies on campus if your symptoms have eased, you are able to study, and the last two days of your self-isolation have been symptom-free. Wear a face mask and practice good hand hygiene. You might show mild post-COVID symptoms, such as coughing, but your five-day absence has diminished your risk of infecting others. Some post-COVID symptoms might persist for weeks.
4. If your symptoms are severe and they continue after five days, seek medical help from FSHS or public healthcare services.

The full guidelines for the procedure for responding to COVID-19 cases or exposure at Tampere University can be found on Intra.

Update 15.2.2022

The Pirkanmaa Pandemic Control Group has presented to the Regional State Administrative Agency of Western and Inner Finland that the restrictions on the number of people attending public indoor events are lifted after 18 February. The “safety clause” 58d under the Communicable Diseases Act is proposed to be extended until the end of February. The Regional State Administrative Agency will make decisions in the upcoming days. If the Regional State Administrative Agency is in line with the Pirkanmaa Pandemic Control Group, there would be no restriction on the number of people at indoor public events starting 19 February, but safety distances should be guaranteed.

The remote work recommendation ends at the end of February. After that, hybrid work is recommended in those workplaces where it is possible.

Update 8.2.2022

Tampere University returns to in-person teaching on 7 March! All campus users are advised to wear a face mask, practice good hand hygiene and keep a safe distance from others. Read more about returning to in-person teaching on Intra.

Update 4.2.2022

The Regional State Administrative Agency of Western and Inner Finland has made a new decision on restrictions on assembly in Pirkanmaa for the period 5-18 February: public events and general meetings may be held indoors if the occasion’s headcount is up to a maximum of 50% of the maximum number of persons allowed in the room. Outdoor public events are not restricted. 

Update 3.2.2022

National COVID-restrictions will be lifted gradually. More information regarding national restrictions can be found on the Government’s website.

The closure of recreational and leisure facilities will end in the area of Pirkanmaa Hospital District after 4 February. The Regional State Administrative Agency will make a decision on meeting restrictions in the upcoming days.

Update 28.1.2022

The COVID-19 quarantine procedures have changed in the Tampere region: the Pirkanmaa Hospital District has decided that quarantine orders will no longer be issued under the Communicable Diseases Act as the primary means of confirming COVID-19 cases. Tampere University and TAMK have decided that if a person who attended an in-person class is infected with COVID-19, the entire student group and the teacher will study and work remotely for a period of five days. Read more about quarantine procedures on Intra!

Update 24.1.2022

On 20 January, the Regional State Administrative Agency of Western and Inner Finland outlined that the restrictions in Pirkanmaa will continue. These restrictions apply to indoor events and the closure of recreational and leisure facilities, and they are now in force until 4 February. In addition, a restriction on the use of the premises is in force on 20 February. According to this restriction, operators in charge of client, participant and audience spaces must prevent the risk of infection caused by close contact with the measures they themselves define.

Update 21.1.2022

The pandemic group of Tampere Universities convened on 20 January 2022. The pandemic group updated, in particular, the guidelines relating to events and travelling that will remain in place until the third period ends on 6 March 2022. The campuses remain open and studying on the campuses is allowed, but the necessary health and safety measures must be observed. Internal events hosted by internal stakeholders are to be conducted in a virtual format, if possible. Public events cannot be organised on the campuses. It is very important that all the members of our community continue to behave responsibly. Intra news article regarding the Universities regulations can be found here.

Update 18.1.2022

The Pirkanmaa Pandemic Control Group has presented to the Regional State Administrative Agency of Western and Inner Finland that it extends previously given restrictions by two weeks, meaning until 4.2.2022. These restrictions apply to indoor public events and the closure of recreational and leisure facilities. By current decision, these restrictions will remain in force until 21 January 2022 if the Regional State Administrative Agency doesn’t decide otherwise.

Update 12.1.2022

Tampere University will continue to primarily deliver remote teaching until 6 March 2022. However, essential in-person teaching such as laboratory classes, simulations, teacher training and small group sessions, can continue. However, classes that would bring together more than 50 people must be organised in a virtual format. The faculties will provide more detailed instructions. Face masks are required during all in-person classes. Masks will be available to students in the venue. Read more about the University’s policies on Intra.

The restrictions given by the Regional State Administrative Agency on the use of the premises are valid from 8 to 21 January 2022. The Pirkanmaa Pandemic Control Group recommends the use of a surgical face mask throughout comprehensive school. The Pandemic Control Group recommends that private events be limited to a maximum of ten people.

Update 10.1.2022

Update 22.12.2021

On 21 December, the Finnish Government negotiated the COVID-19 situation and outlined restrictions and other necessary measures. They point out that it is particularly important to further increase the vaccination coverage and speed up the third vaccinations.

On 28 December, the Government outlines a temporary restriction on the use of the COVID-19 passport for a period of three weeks and other means of defeating the pandemic as follows:

• The use of the COVID-19 passport in restaurants and bars will be restricted beginning on 24 December and will be tightened for both bars and restaurants on 28 December shortening the serving and opening hours.
• Among other things, distance learning will be introduced in universities and universities of applied sciences until 16 January 2022. However, the recommendation does not apply to the necessary contact teaching.
• Internal border control will be comprehensively restored to the traffic between Finland and all Schengen Area from 28 December 2021 to 16 January 2022.

You can find more information about the Government’s decisions in the news on the Government’s website.

The Pandemic Control Group of Pirkanmaa also recommends COVID-19 prevention measures to the Regional State Administrative Agency.

• Prohibition of public events and general meetings and closure of indoor exercise, sports, leisure and recreation facilities for two weeks
  • Events and facilities would not be available for customers even with a COVID-19 passport
  • The ban applies to all public events, regardless of the number of participants
• The closure of customer premises under section 58g of the Communicable Diseases Act would, upon entry into force, apply to the following premises:
  • facilities for team sports, group sports and contact sports, as well as gyms and similar facilities
  • public saunas, swimming pools and spas and their changing rooms
  • dance venues and choral singing facilities and amateur theater facilities
  • amusement and theme parks and indoor playgrounds and parks
  • public lounges in shopping centers

The chairman of the Pandemic Control Group of Pirkanmaa also emphasizes the importance of promoting vaccinations in the current situation.

For more information on the recommendations of the Pandemic Control  Group of Pirkanmaa as well as the recent statistics, see the news published on TAYS’s website (the article is only in Finnish).

Update 17.12.2021

The pandemic group of Tampere Universities convened on 16 December 2021 to update the COVID19-guidelines. The guidelines for the 3rd period from 1 January to 6 March can be found on Intra, here’s a summary of them:

• Face masks: Wearing a face mask is very strongly recommended on campus. Please wear a mask when indoors!
• Access rights to campuses: The campus opening times and access rights will remain unchanged.
• Working: The recommendation for remote working issued by the Pirkanmaa Pandemic Control Group is in effect, so the university staff are strongly recommended to work remotely.
• Teaching: Teaching can be delivered in-person, in a hybrid format or remotely as pedagogically appropriate.
• Exams: Exams can be arranged without limiting the seating capacity.
• On-campus study spaces and libraries: Open as normal
• Events: At least until now, no restrictions apply to low-risk events that are organised by higher education institutions and are closely connected to their internal activities. A Covid passport is required to gain entry to public events that are hosted by Tampere Universities and bring together more than 20 people. For now, external stakeholders are not able to book the campus venues or organise events on the campuses of Tampere Universities.
• Doctoral defences: A Covid19-passport will be required if the event is attended by more than 20 people.
• Student association facilities: Open as normal
• Campus restaurants: In accordance with the instructions issued by the public authorities.
• SportUni: For more information go to SportUni’s website here.
• International mobility: The updated guidelines concerning international mobility are set out in the Covid-19 control plan, which is included in the materials of the pandemic group’s meeting on 16 December 2021.

Update 16.12.2021

The Pirkanmaa Pandemic Control Group has issued new recommendations. Private events will be limited to a maximum of 20 people. A facemask has to be used in all schools from the fourth grade onwards. The recommendations also include instructions for the activities of non-vaccinated and at-risk groups, and visits to social and health services.

Update 13.12.2021

The Regional State Administrative Agency for Western and Inland Finland has issued regulations mandating that the operators of public facilities and customer facilities take measures that help to prevent the spread of Covid-19 by enabling persons to avoid close contact. The new restrictions will remain in place in the Tampere region from 13 December to 31 December 2021.

The new restrictions will affect SportUni’s services at Tampere University and Tampere University of Applied Sciences.

SportUni will continue to offer all its usual services, but the number of persons allowed into the sports facilities will be limited to enable social distancing. The maximum number of participants is displayed at the entrances.

For more information go to SportUni’s website here.

Update 9.12.2021

On 9 December, the Regional State Administrative Agency for Western and Inland Finland made a decision according to which the operators responsible for customer and public premises must organize the use of the premises in such a way that the risk of corona infection caused by close contact between customers, participants and parties can be prevented. It is up to the operator to choose the appropriate means to fulfill the obligations of the decision. For example, the operator may limit the number of customers, stagger visitor participation, and / or make arrangements for space and placement of customer seats. However, safety margins of a certain length are not required in the decision. The decision must be observed in the case of an indoor space of more than 10 people or an outdoor space of more than 50 people. The decision is in effect from 13 December to 31 December 2021.

A COVID19-passport required for persons attending doctoral defences and other public events at Tampere University. Read more about the usage of the COVID19-passport on Intra.

Update 8.12.2021

On 3 December, the Regional State Administrative Agency of Western and Inner Finland has banned all indoor public events and general meetings attended by more than 20 people in the areas of Pirkanmaa Hospital District and Punkalaidun municipality for the period of 6 December 2021 to 5 January 2022. The COVID19-passport can be used as an alternative to restrictions. In general meetings, the organizer may not require a COVID19-passport, but must comply with restrictions.

The gathering restrictions issued by the Regional State Administrative Agency do not apply to teaching delivered by higher education institutions or their regular activities. Read more about the effects of gathering restrictions on our university community in Intra.

Update 30.11.2021

Restrictions are tightening again in Pirkanmaa. The Pirkanmaa Pandemic Control Group has given a recommendation for remote working for all the tasks where remote working is possible. Pirkanmaa still has a wide mask recommendation.

The Pirkanmaa Pandemic Control Group proposes to the Regional State Administrative Agency of Western and Inner Finland that all indoor public events for people over the age of 16 be limited to a maximum of 20 people in Pirkanmaa. Larger events could be arranged if a COVID19-passport is in use. Municipalities can also decide for themselves on the restrictions on events in their area.

Update 24.11.2021

In the period from 24 November to 19 December, the Regional State Administrative Agency of Western and Inner Finland has banned all indoor public events with more than 100 participants that occur in auditoriums without seating for all participants, or joint singing events. Restrictions do not apply to general meetings.

Pirkanmaa still has a general mask recommendation. The Pirkanmaa Pandemic Control Group has returned the mask recommendation for educational institutions for sixth graders and older. Where possible, hybrid work is recommended for workplaces, and the use of a mask is recommended in the workplace.

The COVID-19 vaccination bus is touring Tampere and visiting Tampere Universities campuses during the second week of December. You can get vaccinated without booking an appointment in advance and you can get vaccinated even if you live in another municipality. International students can also get a free vaccination on the bus.

Update 16.11.2021

Pirkanmaa’s pandemic steering group has proposed to the Regional State Administrative Agency that it implements gathering restrictions in the Pirkanmaa Hospital District for high-risk public events held indoors. The restriction proposal, if implemented, would mean that high-risk events without a designated seat for participants could only be organized with the help of a COVID-19 passport.

Update 15.11.2021

The Pirkanmaa Regional Pandemic Control Group has given a strong mask recommendation to public indoor spaces and public transport. The recommendation to wear a face mask is still in place on all Tampere University campuses. Pirkanmaa has moved to the community transmission phase, so the situation has worsened again.

A COVID-vaccine bus will also make stops on Tampere University campuses:

• Tuesday 7 December at 12–15 on the City centre campus
• Wednesday 8 December at 12–15 on the Hervanta campus
• Thursday 9 December at 12–15 on the TAMK campus in Kauppi

Update 14.10.2021

Access restrictions to the 24/7 zones on the campuses to be lifted on 25 October! According to President Mari Walls, the decision was based on “the conversations with and messages received from our students”. We thank the pandemic group and the University management for consulting the state of mind of the students, and all the students who loudly highlighted the importance of campuses to their daily lives.

TREY’s celebration on the matter can be found on our website

Intra news article on the lifting of the restrictions

Update 12.10.2021

The pandemic group of Tampere Universities met on 7 October and updated the guidelines of the Universities community for the rest of the year, ie. for the period from 11 October to 31 December 2021. Restrictions on students’ access rights will continue, contrary to the wishes of TREY and student associations. Students’ access rights are valid from 7.30 to 22.00 on the so-called 24/7 areas. The face mask recommendation will continue. All valid pandemic policies can be found on Intra.

Update 21.9.2021

Pirkanmaa is moving back to the acceleration phase of the pandemic, which means the situation has improved. The remote work recommendation ends at the end of September, and the Pirkanmaa Pandemic Control Group recommends moving to a hybrid model in the workplace. The mask recommendation continues.

Update 8.9.2021

The Regional State Administrative Agency of Western and Inner Finland has decided that the restriction on gatherings in Pirkanmaa is valid until 12 September and after that the restrictions on gatherings will be lifted.

Update 6.9.2021

The City of Tampere is organizing COVID-19 vaccination opportunities on the university campuses in Tampere during weeks 36 and 37.

All vaccination clinics will be open at 13.00-15.00 (1PM-3PM). Vaccination dates and locations are:

• TAMK Main Campus: Tuesday 7 September and Wednesday 15 September
• Tampere University, Hervanta campus, Festia building: Wednesday 8 September and Thursday 16 September
• Tampere University, City centre campus, Main building: Thursday 9 September and Tuesday 14 September

International higher education exchange students can also get vaccinated at these stations. Bring your student card and Kela card, driver’s licence, passport or ID card with you for identification. Read more on the vaccination opportunities on campuses on the city’s press release here.

Update 30.8.2021

All students studying in Tampere are offered the opportunity to get their COVID-19 vaccines by visiting the vaccine clinic in Ratina! Tampere University might get a pop-up vaccine clinic along with other educational establishments in the near future! Read more on vaccination possibilities on Intra.

Update 27.8.2021

The Regional State Administrative Agency of Western and Inner Finland has continued the meeting restriction on Pirkanmaa for the period of 30 August to 12 September. Public events and general meetings may be held indoors if the number of participants does not exceed 10 people. Public events and general meetings may be held outdoors if the number of participants does not exceed 50 people. However, events with more participants than stated above may be organized provided that safety can be ensured by following the instructions issued by the Ministry of Education and Culture and the Department of Health and Welfare on 31 May 2021, which directly supplement the obligations of Section 58c of the Communicable Diseases Act.

Update 17.8.2021

The pandemic group updated the guidelines for preventing the spread of Covid-19 which will remain in place across Tampere Universities between 17 August and 24 October 2021. Here is a summary of the guidelines, for more information about them visit Intra here.

Guidelines issued by Tampere Universities to be effective from 17 August to 24 October 2021

• To minimise the risk of infection, the campus buildings will remain closed to external persons. Staff, students and non-employees, who have a resource agreement and a key card, can access the campus premises with their key card. Students can access the premises during the opening times of the campus buildings but must vacate the premises no later than 22:00. 
• External persons (individuals and small groups) may visit the campuses, but the safety measures must be observed. The host must coordinate the moving of the persons in the campus facilities from the entrance onwards.  
• Staff must adhere to the safety measures when working on campus. In order to safeguard the delivery of in-person teaching, staff members are recommended to work remotely when the performance of their tasks does not require their physical presence on campus.
• During the first period, in-person teaching will be especially provided to first-year students and second-year students. In-person classes and exams may take place on the campuses, but the persons present in the venue must wear a face mask and keep a safe distance from one another. However, classes that would bring together more than 100 people must be organised in a virtual format. Tampere University and Tampere University of Applied Sciences will issue their own guidelines regarding exams. If a virtual class is a suitable option, teaching may be delivered remotely even if the prescribed maximum number of participants is not exceeded. Teachers are hoped to agree on course delivery modes with their supervisor. Hybrid teaching that combines in-person and remote teaching is not recommended because technical problems are often experienced during hybrid classes.
• The study spaces and computer labs are open, but their capacity is limited to 50 people. The social distancing guidelines and safety measures must be observed in the premises.
• The University Library’s facilities and services are available to the members of the Tampere Universities community. External customers will not be able to access the premises, with the exception of the pick-up location for library items on the Hervanta campus.
• Events and gatherings may take place in the premises of Tampere Universities, but they are capped at 50 people. The social distancing guidelines and safety measures must be observed. External stakeholders cannot book the campus facilities (except in the context of educational collaboration, such as the Summer University). Public events cannot take place on the campuses.
• Doctoral defences continue to be primarily organised in a virtual format. Up to 50 persons may be present in the venue at a time. The social distancing guidelines and safety measures must be observed. Coffee and refreshments may be served on campus after a doctoral defence, but the social distancing guidelines and safety measures must be observed.
• The facilities of the student guilds, clubs and associations are open, but the social distancing guidelines and safety measures must be observed (such as good hygiene, face masks, gathering limit).
• The campus restaurants and SportUni can operate in accordance with the current guidelines and the instructions issued by the public authorities. When visiting the campus restaurants, it is important that customers help to make sure they are able to maintain social distancing, for example, by having lunch during off-peak hours.
• We continue to discourage travel. All mobility must be very carefully considered or organised remotely if possible. The host must undertake to ensure the safe arrival of the incoming person (including self-imposed quarantine and the related guidelines) and provide orientation. For detailed information about the guidelines that apply to international mobility in the autumn of 2021, see the agenda for the pandemic group’s meeting on 21 April and the Covid exit plan.

Update 3.8.2021

The Pirkanmaa Regional Pandemic Control Group has stated today on 3 August that the Pirkanmaa Hospital District has entered the community transmission phase of the epidemic. More COVID-19 infections have been diagnosed last week in Pirkanmaa than ever before, and the need for hospital care has increased.

The aim of the decisions of the Pirkanmaa Regional Pandemic Control Group is that primary schools and secondary education could begin the academic year with contact teaching. Educational institutions should also be prepared to switch to distance learning if necessary. The control group does not take a stance on the situation of higher education institutions. According to our current information, the Pandemic Group of the Tampere Universities community will meet on 16 August.

What does moving to the community transmission phase mean?

• Restrictions on assembly regulations imposed by the Regional State Administrative Agency of Western and Inner Finland for the period of 5–29 August remain valid and their effectiveness will be evaluated at a later stage.
• Strong mask recommendations remain valid.
• The remote work recommendation in Pirkanmaa will be continued until the end of September.
• There will be no restrictions on hobbies at this stage.
• The Pirkanmaa Regional Pandemic Control Group recommends event producers to divide their audiences in separate groups who do not meet each other and to demand that the members of the audiences wear masks.

Update 2.8.2021

Pirkanmaa has moved from the baseline of the COVID-19 epidemic to the acceleration phase on 20 July. According to the Pirkanmaa Regional Pandemic Control Group, the transition to the community transmission phase is not far off, as the situation has clearly deteriorated in the recent weeks.

Wearing a face mask is recommended for anyone over the age of 12 at all encounters. The remote work recommendation is valid in the Pirkanmaa region until the end of August, and the need for further recommendation will be assessed at tomorrow’s pandemic group meeting.

In Pirkanmaa, the second dose of COVID-19 vaccination can be brought forward if the municipality’s vaccination situation allows. The second dose of the COVID-19 vaccination may be given eight weeks after the first. Read more about the vaccine and its possible advancement on the City of Tampere’s website.

The Regional State Administrative Agency of Western and Inner Finland has imposed a meeting restriction on Pirkanmaa for the period of 5 to 29 August to prevent the spread of the epidemic. Public events and general meetings may be held indoors if the number of participants does not exceed 10 people. Public events and general meetings may be held outdoors if the number of participants does not exceed 50 people. However, events with more participants than stated above may be organized provided that safety can be ensured by following the instructions issued by the Ministry of Education and Culture and the Department of Health and Welfare on 31 May 2021, which directly supplement the obligations of Section 58c of the Communicable Diseases Act. It must be possible to avoid close contact at customer and business premises, which means physical contact with people indoors or outdoors, or indoors for less than two meters for more than 15 minutes.

Update 18.6.2021

The pandemic group of Tampere Universities convened on 17 June 2021. Here is a short list of the updated guidelines. Read more about the guidelines made on 17 June 2021 on the intranet!

The guidelines issued on 2 June 2021 will remain effective until 1 August 2021 but will be revised as follows:

• The gathering limits that apply to working and studying on the campuses will be lifted, but the social distancing guidelines must still be observed.
• All the campus sports facilities (including Bommari) will be reopened.
• The social distancing guidelines and safety measures must be observed in the sports facilities.

The pandemic group also updated the Covid exit plan. Provided that the Tampere region remains in stage 1 of the pandemic in August, the Covid exit plan will be revised on 2 August 2021 as follows:

• The gathering limit of 50 people will be lifted.
• Campus venues may be hired to external stakeholders and public events may be arranged, but the social distancing guidelines and the recommendation to wear a face mask must be observed.
• The doors to the campus buildings will remain closed to external visitors but may be open during events, although restrictions will apply.

The updated exit plan is included in the pandemic group’s meeting materials (17 June) on the intranet. The pandemic group will consider other possible changes to the exit plan at its meeting on 16 August 2021.

Up-to-date comlied corona guidelines for students and staff can be found in the intra.

Update 10.6.2021

Kela’s meal subsidy to student restaurants and the possibility to buy take away lunch continues until the end of the year 2021. During the COVID-pandemic, the meal subsidy assisted student meals can exceptionally be sold as take away. A student can by two meals at once.

The Regional State Administrative Agency of Western and Inner Finland has repealed the gathering restrictions to Pirkanmaa health care district and the municipality of Punkalaidun. On the basis of the available information and expert assessments, the Regional State Administrative Agency of Western and Inner Finland considers that there are no longer grounds for a decision pursuant to section 58 of the Communicable Diseases Act in the current situation.

Update 8.6.2021

Pirkanmaa has moved to the baseline phase of the pandemic, so the situation keeps getting better! The Pandemic Control Group of Pirkanmaa has lifted the restrictions concerning adult indoor hobby activities. Mask and remote work recommendations are still in effect.

Update 7.6.2021

SportUni reduces restrictions in a controlled manner and increases numbers of visitors for gyms! Starting on June 7, visitor numbers for gyms will rise at each gym by about half. One customer can book four shifts a week from now on. Read more on the reduced restrictions on SportUni’s website!

Update 3.6.2021

The pandemic group of Tampere Universities met yesterday, 2 June, and updated the guidelines for 14 June – 1 August. Additionally, the pandemic group discussed the COVID-19 exit plan. Here is a summary of the guidelines, for more information about them visit Intra.

Campus activities

•  Coming to the campuses more freely is now allowed, but the social distancing guidelines, gathering limits and the recommendation to wear a face must be observed.
• Access rights will remain unchanged but the summer opening hours of the campus buildings will apply.
• The gathering limit of 50 people continues to apply while working on the campuses.
• The recommendation to work and study remotely and the strong recommendation to wear a face mask remain in force.
• A safe distance of 2 metres must be kept from others and the safety precautions must be observed at all times when on campus.

Studying, facilities and envets

• Teaching continues to be primarily delivered remotely; this also applies to teaching delivered by the Summer University.
• Face-to-face classes and exams may be held if the group size does not exceed 50 and the safety precautions are observed.
• The study spaces and computer labs are open,but safety distances, gathering limits and other safety precautions apply.
• Events and gatherings may take place in the premises of Tampere Universities, but they are capped at 50 people. Doctoral defences continue to be primarily organised in a virtual format.

Student association spaces

• The facilities of the student guilds, clubs and associations are open, but the social distancing guidelines and safety precautions must be observed.

COVID-19 exit-plan

The pandemic group discussed the current version of the Covid-19 exit plan. We will exercise caution and gradually lift the restrictions. The exit plan enables the flexible tightening and easing of the restrictions in response to changes in the scale of the pandemic. The exit plan can be found on Intra.

Update 31.5.2021

The Government’s action plan to manage the COVID-19 epidemic has been updated. The update brings changes to public and private events, among other things. Due to this, the Pandemic Control Group of Pirkanmaa has given new guidelines. The Regional State Administrative Agency will inform of their guidelines soon. More information about the updated Government’s COVID action plan can be found on the Government’s website.

• Universities: According to the updated action plan to manage the COVID-19 epidemic, universities can move to contact learning and teaching.
• Public events: There are no longer upper limits to public gatherings in areas that are in the acceleration phase. Public events can be organised by complying with safety instructions: the event organiser is obligated to safety distances in gatherings of over 10 people indoors and of over 50 people outdoors. Event organisers are obligated to make safety plans to public events.
• Private events: The Pandemic Control Group of Pirkanmaa does no longer have a gathering recommendation to private events. Private events need to be organised by complying with safety instructions.
• Adult hobby activities: According to the Pandemic Control Group of Pirkanmaa, adult indoor hobby activities can be held with safety distances and other safety instructions. Indoor adult group and contact activities need to be on hold still.

The contagion law’s temporary regulations are continued until the end of the year.

Update 27.5.2021

Pirkanmaa is still in the acceleration phase. The COVID-situation has remained the same. The Pandemic Control Group of Pirkanmaa has given new guidelines on 25 May:

• Indoor sport consistent training and contest activities for under 20-year-olds are now allowed.
  
• Youth community centres can be opened.
• Public saunas, public swimming pools and spas can be opened with a limited crowd and safety instructions.
• Other indoor adult hobbies are recommended to be on break for now.

Update 21.5.2021

The pandemic group of Tampere Universities met yesterday on 20 May. The pandemic group decided that we will now primarily adhere to the guidelines issued on 24 February: students and staff will continue to primarily study and work remotely until 31 July. Staff and students may only come to the campuses to work or study if it is absolutely necessary. The gathering limit is now 50 people. Staff and students are advised to avoid coming to and parking on the campuses while entrance examinations are in progress on 18 May – 11 June.

The pandemic group of Tampere Universitieshas given the following guidelines:

• Teaching continues to be primarily delivered remotely. Necessary face-to-face classes, exams, events and gatherings may take place on the campuses if the group size does not exceed 50. The social distancing guidelines and safety precautions must be observed.
• The study spaces and computer labs are open, but their capacity is limited to 50. The social distancing guidelines and safety precautions must be observed.
• Doctoral defences continue to be primarily organised in a virtual format. Up to 50 persons may be present in the venue at a time. The social distancing guidelines and safety precautions must be observed.
  
• Student association facilities remain closed due to entrance examinations, but mandatory Board activities may be carried out as long the social distancing guidelines and safety precautions are observed. The pandemic group will reassess the guidelines on 2 June. At the same meeting, the pandemic group will also discuss events and the use of campus facilities in the autumn of 2021.
• The Library facilities and on-site services will be reopened on 9 August. The pick-up locations will remain open on weekdays until 5 August, with the exception of the summer break (12–25 July) when library services will not be available. Please use the digital resources and materials. It will not be possible to reopen the library facilities and provide on-site services until August for health and safety reasons and because library staff follow a staggered holiday schedule.

Read more about the pandemic group’s decisions on Intra!

Update 18.5.2021

The Pandemic Control Group of Pirkanmaa has given new guidelines, yet again, since the COVID-situation has been getting better. Pirkanmaa is still in the acceleration phase.

Outdoor group hobby activities for adults can be held and safety distances don’t need to be met. Tournaments can be held, as well. The public outdoor swimming pool can be opened with a limited crowd. Other swimming facilities can operate with given regulations.

The Pandemic Control Group reminds that there is a national remote work recommendation which is effective until the end of June.

Update 11.5.2021

The Pandemic Control Group of Pirkanmaa has given new guidelines since the COVID-situation has been getting better. The gathering restriction to private events is now 50 people following safety instructions.

The Regional State Administrative Agency’s restrictions to public gatherings are 50 people following health and safety regulations starting at 12 May and ending at 1 June.

It is now possible to start outdoor group hobby activities for adults in groups of max. 50 people. Indoor hobby activities for adults are not recommended.

Update 6.5.2021

The pandemic group of Tampere Universities met yesterday on 5 May. The pandemic group decided that we will now primarily adhere to the guidelines issued on 24 February and the gathering limit of 10 people. Staff and students are advised to avoid working on the campuses while entrance examinations are in progress on 18 May – 11 June.

SportUni’s facilities will be reopened with limited services as soon as the recommendations issued by the regional pandemic steering group allow it.

The guidelines issued by Tampere Universities and the situation with the University Library will be reassessed by the pandemic group on 20 May 2021. The arrangement of events in the autumn of 2021 and the plans for the use of campus facilities will be discussed by the pandemic group at its meeting on 2 June 2021. At the same meeting, the pandemic group will continue discussing the activities relating to recovery from the pandemic next autumn.

Read more about the pandemic group’s decisions on Intra.

Update 4.5.2021

The Pandemic Control Group of Pirkanmaa has given new guidelines. Pirkanmaa has moved from the community transmission phase back to the acceleration phase. Museums and libraries can now be opened if hygienic instructions are followed. Sport consistent outdoor activities for those born in 2002 or after can now happen without group limits.

If the situation continues to get better, the Pandemic Control Group will next week discuss possibly allowing group outdoor activies of adults and the situation of public swimming pools, spas and public saunas.

Update 27.4.2021

The Regional State Administrative Agency has decided on a ten person limit for public events and gatherings from 1 May to 16 May. The same ten person limit is recommended for private events for the same time period.

Update 22.4.2021

The pandemic group of Tampere Universities has extended the validity of the guidelines until 5 May 2021. In addition, the pandemic group discussed, among other things, the booking of campus facilities, and international mobility in the autumn of 2021. Read more on the pandemic group’s decision on Intra.

Update 20.4.2021

The Pandemic Control Group of Pirkanmaa has eased some restrictions. Indoor leisure activities for under 20-year-olds are allowed starting this week, given that health instructions by the Ministry of Education and Culture and the Finnish institute for health and welfare are followed. Guided activies for young people regarding Liberal Adult Education, basic art studies and youth facilities can be opened if the mask guidelines and other health instructions are followed.

The opening of museums, libraries and other public spaces are discussed in next week’s meeting. The Regional State Administrative Agency discusses the gathering limit next week, as well.

Update 16.4.2021

Restricting activities of food and beverage service businesses

The Government has amended the decree restricting the activities of restaurants and other food and beverage service businesses due to the COVID-19 epidemic. The amendment to the decree will enter into force on 19 February. Food and beverage service businesses can reopen with restrictions, strictest of which will be imposed on the areas worst affected by the epidemic. The next restrictions apply to Pirkanmaa:

• The amount of customer seating in restaurants that primarily serve alcoholic beverages will be restricted to one third of the normal number of seats. They may serve alcoholic beverages between 7.00 and 17.00 and be open between 5.00 and 18.00.
• For other restaurants, the amount of customer seating will be restricted to half the normal number of seats. They may serve alcoholic beverages between 7.00 and 17.00 and be open between 5.00 and 19.00.
• The restaurants located in these regions must also instruct customers to stay seated in indoor premises. This means that dancing and karaoke, for example, are prohibited.

Read more on the restrictions regarding food and beverage service businesses on the Government’s website.

Regarding the COVID-19 vaccination order

On 16 April, the Government amended the decree on the voluntary COVID-19 vaccinations. The amended decree will specify Finland’s current order of priority for COVID-19 vaccination. It will also expand the group of people authorised to administer vaccines. In addition, it will make it possible to temporarily target vaccines by region on the epidemiological grounds that are uniform and defined in a transparent manner. Read more on the vaccination order on the Government’s website.

Update 14.4.2021

The Pandemic Control Group of Pirkanmaa eased some restrictions on children’s recreational activities. From next week, recreational indoor activities for those born in 2008 and later will be possible in Pirkanmaa in accordance with the safety guidelines of the Ministry of Education and Culture. Activities must have e.g. maximum groups of 10 people and no competitions can be organised. Among other things, the closure of museums, libraries, indoor swimming pools, and youth facilities is proposed to be continued for a month and their opening is expected to happen during April. Next week, the Pandemic Group will reassess the recreational activities for young people.

Update 1.4.2021

For now, the Regional State Administrative Agency is not introducing the section 58g of the contagion law. This section would have allowed for all sports facilities to be closed by public officer decision from 5.-18. April. The decision might change based on the COVID-situation.

The Finnish Government has withdrawn the proposal on temporarily restricting freedom of movement and close contacts. Read more on the Government’s decisions on the Government’s website.

Since the Regional State Administrative Agency for Western and Inland Finland has decided that the restrictions limiting events and gatherings to a maximum of 6 people will remain in force until 30 April, the University’s guidelines pertaining to gatherings, the delivery of teaching and the use of campus facilities continue until 30 April, as well. Read more about the University’s guidelines on Intra.

Update 31.3.2021

The six-person limit for private events is now open-ended (effective until decided otherwise), as decided by the Pandemic Control Group of Pirkanmaa.

Update 30.3.2021

The Pandemic Control Group of Pirkanmaa has given new recommendations and guidelines on 30 March:

• Basic education classes 7-9 and general upper secondary education will return to contact learning starting 6 April. The Pandemic Control Group recommends wearing a mask on school premises.
• Indoor leisure activities for children and young people is recommended to be on break until 18 April.
• The Regional State Administrative Agency is presented with introducing the section 58g of the contagion law. This section would allow for all sports facilities to be closed by public officer decision from 5.-18. April.

Update 29.3.2021

The Regional State Administrative Agency continues the six-person limit for public and private events until 30 April.

Update 26.3.2021

The Finnish Government has submitted a proposal that would place temporary restrictions on freedom of movement and close contacts and introduce a mask mandate in the areas worst affected by COVID-19. The proposal doesn’t include Pirkanmaa, at least for now. Read more on the Government’s website!

Update 25.3.2021

The pandemic group of Tampere Universities met yesterday, on 24 March. Staff and students will continue to primarily work and study remotely until 31 July. Staff and students may only come to the campuses to work or study if it is absolutely necessary. Entrance examinations will take place on campus this spring, but strict safety measures will be put in place.

Limited teaching activities will take place on campus in the 2021 autumn semester. As a rule, classes that bring together more than 50 people will be organised virtually.

Read more about the pandemic group’s decisions on Intra!

Update 23.3.2021

The Pandemic Control Group of Pirkanmaa has given new recommendations and guidelines due to the Pirkanmaa Hospital District being in the community transmission phase of coronavirus.

• Basic education classes 7-9 and general upper secondary education continue distance learning until 5 April. The Pandemic Control Group presents the Regional State Administrative Agency that school facilities should be closed for the same time period.
• The Regional State Administrative Agency is presented with the six-person limit for public events until 18 April. The same restriction applies to private events.
• Indoor leisure activities for adults remain closed unless the leisure activities can be carried out remotely.

Update 16.3.2021

On Tuesday 16 March, the Pandemic Control Group of Pirkanmaa stated that the Pirkanmaa Hospital District has moved to community transmission phase of coronavirus. Most of the recommendations for the community transmission phase have already been in use in Pirkanmaa.

Update 12.3.2021

It is compulsory to wear a face mask in Nysse transport buses starting from Monday 15 March. Only those with a medical condition can deviate from the compulsion. Nysse will not require proof of a medical condition.

Update 11.3.2021

The pandemic group of the Tampere Universities community has given stricter guidelines to gatherings and the use of campus facilities between 11 March and 31 March 2021 accordingly to the new restrictions given by the pandemic steering group of Pirkanmaa.

• The gathering limit of six people will apply to all events and classes if possible.
  • If teaching-related events must be held on campus, the number of people present may not exceed 10. All the participants must keep a safe distance (at least 2 metres) from others and follow the safety precautions.
  • Doctoral defences that have already been booked may take place as planned, but the gathering limit of 6 people must be observed from now on.
  • The capacity of the electronic exam facilities is limited to 6-10 people depending on the size of the space.
• SportUni’s sports centres will remain open with limited services.
  • The number of people inside the centres is limited to 10 (up to 8 people in the gym facilities and 2 people playing badminton).
• The campus restaurants operate in accordance with the instructions issued by the public authorities.
  • The seating capacity of the campus restaurants and possible takeout services have been reviewed and limited.
  • For detailed opening hours and other information, please visit the restaurant websites.

The planning of the delivery of teaching in the 2021 autumn semester continues and the pandemic group of the Tampere Universities community will discuss and might decide on the topic at the next meeting on 24 March 2021. The pandemic group is also set to discuss the organisation of entrance examinations at the next meeting. The guidelines on international mobility will be further specified by the end of April 2021.

This same information can be found on Intra.

Update 9.3.2021

The Regional State Administrative Agency has made a restriction of a six-person limit for public events between 11.–31.3.2021.

Update 3.3.2021

The pandemic steering group of Pirkanmaa has given new restrictions on 3 March for the period from 8 to 28 March 2021:

• Basic education classes 7-9 and general upper secondary education will move to distance learning except for students with special support. Distance learning at universities continues during the spring semester.
• Six-person limit for private events, the Regional State Administrative Agency is presented with the same six-person limit for public events
• Indoor leisure activities for adults are closed unless the leisure activities can be carried out remotely
• Among other things, the following are recommended to be closed: youth facilities, spas, public saunas, libraries (excluding necessary actions for accessible local services), museums and public spaces in shopping centres

In addition, the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency is presented with e.g. limiting the number of seats in public transport. Read more in the bulletin of Tampere University Hospital in Finnish.

Update 25.2.2021

The Finnish Government’s guidelines

In its negotiations on 24 February, the Finnish Government outlined more stringent measures to fight against the coronavirus pandemic and announced these guidelines at a press conference on 25 February.

Stricter restrictions on the spreading phase will be introduced in seven hospital districts and the same measures are recommended for nine acceleration phase districts. Pirkanmaa is in the acceleration phase and within the scope of the recommendation. New, more stringent restrictions on the spreading phase include restrictions on gatherings of more than 6 people and avoidance of private events for more than 6 people. In addition, the Government is prepared to decide on the transition to exceptional circumstances next week. The exceptional circumstances would last from 8 to 28 March, and would mean, for example, the closure of food and beverage service establishments. All restrictions can be read in the Government bulletin.

The pandemic group of Tampere Universities guidelines

The pandemic group met on 24 February to discuss the continued application of the stricter additional guidelines. Students and staff will continue to primarily study and work remotely until 31 July. Staff and students may only come to the campuses to work or study if it is absolutely necessary. The restrictions that apply to campus facilities and gatherings will be reconsidered on a regular basis. Read more on the pandemic group’s guidelines on Intra.

The pandemic group also discussed the preparation of guidelines for next autumn. The next meeting will take place on 10 March.

Update 23.2.2021

SportUni Sports Centres were opened on 22 February only by reservation. The centres were opened in accordance with safety and hygiene instructions. This requires special arrangements so that we can continue to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Read more on SportUni’s website:

SportUni Centres will be opened on a limited basis

Take the following into account when arriving to SportUni Centres

Book shifts to the gyms or to play badminton in SportUni centres

Update 11.2.2021

The pandemic group of Tampere Universities met yesterday 10 February and the top management has now given new guidelines! The good news is that there will be a small-scale controlled reopening of SportUni! The well-being of we students and staff is supported by providing access to SportUni’s supervised sports services and facilitating outdoor sports!

The restrictions on international mobility at Tampere Universities are in effect until 31 July and we continue to discourage travelling. There have been some problems with adherence to the imposed restrictions in the facilities of the University’s student associations. The use of the facilities will be closely monitored. All the members of the Tampere Universities community have a responsibility to minimise social contacts, keep a safe distance from others, wear a face mask and adhere to the other recommendations and guidelines.

More information regarding the new guidelines can be found on Intra.

Update 10.2.2021

The City of Tampere has started using a multilingual coronabot. You can ask the coronabot questions related to COVID-19 at any time of the day. Read more about the coronabot on the City of Tampere’s website!

Update 4.2.2021

Konehuone was reopened on 2 February with the following opening hours:

• Mon-Wed 12:00-17:00 Lunch & Fusion
• Thu-Fri 12:00-17:00 Wings

Kindly wear a mask when doing business in line.

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Update 1.12.2020

The pandemic group of Tampere Universities has decided new corona policies in a meeting held 1 December. The corona situation in Finland has deteriorated substantially, and regionally preparations for the spreading stage of the virus need to be made. The new policies aim to ensure a safe working and studying environment for all members of the community. 

New guidelines are:

• strong face mask recommendation in all campus premises
• Working and studying from home strongly recommended
• Teaching continues to be primarily delivered remotely. Necessary face-to-face classes and exams may be held if the group size does not exceed 10 and the safety precautions are observed. An exception are the exams and classes scheduled for week 49, which may be held in large rooms where everyone can keep a safe distance from others.
• Electronic exams can be completed Monday through Friday from 8 to 22 (also on public holidays) during the opening times of the campus buildings, but the number of people in the electronic exam facilities may not exceed 10. The time limit for electronic exams is 2 hours. 
• Only events or gatherings that are absolutely necessary may take place in the premises of Tampere Universities, and the number of people in the venue may not exceed 10.
• Conventional doctoral defences cannot be held in the campus premises. Up to 10 persons may be present in the venue at a time (including the doctoral candidate, custos and AV support).
• The study spaces and computer labs remain open, but their capacity is limited to 10.
• The facilities of student guilds, clubs and associations are closed but mandatory Board activities may be carried out and items may be collected as long as the safety precautions are observed.
• Access rights will remain activated as they are now but coming to the campus is only allowed if it is absolutely necessary.
• The University Library and all the library premises (including the 24/7 zones) will remain closed. Items can be loaned and collected from designated pick-up locations.
• SportUni’s facilities and other sports facilities will be closed. Read more on the intranet.  
• The campus restaurants can continue operating in accordance with the instructions issued by the public authorities. The seating capacity of the campus restaurants will be reviewed and limited, if necessary.

Read more about the new policies from the university’s intra here.

Update 30.11.2020

Pirkanmaa’s pandemic steering group has given new guidelines and restrictions to Pirkanmaa, as the situation has been getting worse in Pirkanmaa. Some of the guidelines are:

• In public gatherings, the gathering restriction is 10 persons. It has been proposed to the Regional State Administrative Agencies that public gatherings and meetings of over 10 people should be prohibited. In private meetings, the gathering restriction is 10 persons until 21 December.
• Public and private indoor exercise facilities are recommended to be closed on 2.-21. December.
• Group sports activities and combat hobbies for adults are suspended until 21 December.
• It is recommended to libraries that they only lend books between 2.-21. December.
• Unnecessary traveling is recommended to be avoided to those regions where the virus is in the spreading phase (for example Uusimaa).

Update 24.11.2020

Pirkanmaa’s pandemic steering group has given new guidelines and restrictions to Pirkanmaa:

• The previous guidelines stay in effect
• A mask recommendation is given to high schools and trade schools, beginning from 26 November
• Group sports activities and combat hobbies for adults are suspended until 15 December, beginning from 26 November
• The gathering restriction is now 10 persons until 15 December

Update 16.11.2020

Cloth face masks distributed to university students can be picked up from campuses on November 16-28, 2020.

The University has ordered 12 000 masks in total. The masks are primarily meant for those students, whose studies demand presence at the campus.

Hervanta campus, lobby of Kampusareena, 1st floor

Mon-Fri 7.30 am to 6 pm

 

Kauppi campus, lobby of Arvo2

Mon-Fri 7.30 am to 6 pm

 

City center campus, main lobby of Main bulding

Mon-Fri 7.30 am to 6 pm and Sat 8 am to 3 pm

 

There are 2 individually wrapped cloth face masks per student. Take the separate instructions with you and read it carefully.

Update 13.11.2020

Throughout the 2021 spring semester, teaching will continue to be delivered primarily remotely as in the 2020 autumn semester. To minimise the risk of infection, the campus buildings will remain closed to external persons. Staff, students and non-employees, who have a resource agreement and a key card, will be able to access the campus buildings with their key card.

Instructions regarding, among other things, support measures, campus opening hours, the Library, campus restaurants and SportUni can be found on Intra.

Update 21.10.2020

The university’s corona guidelines have been updated.

Teaching in the 2021 spring semester:

• Only the necessary teaching
  • these are such things as laboratory classes, small group teaching sessions, or student support sessions are to be held live.
  • The current safety precautions and restrictions on gatherings (20 October: up to 50 people) and the recommendation to wear a face mask must be observed in a classroom context.

The specifications for the use of mask and how students can aquire masks

• All campus users are recommended to wear a face mask at all times. Especially when participating in live teaching
• The University strives to give out 2 cloth maskes to every student as fast as possible
  • Prioritising those students who participate in live teaching or have a need to study on campuses
  • The giving out of the masks has been delayed to to availibility issues. The masks should be available in 2-3 weeks

More information about the guidelines regarding corona can be found on universitys Intra. You can also be in contact with the university via the email korona(at)tuni.fi

Update 9.10.2020

Cloth face masks will be distributed to students at Tampere University after the autumn break. The intention is to provide 2 individually wrapped cloth face masks per student. The goal is to provide a face mask to students who attend on-campus classes or otherwise need to study on campus.

The University will provide more information about the availability of the masks later. Read the whole intra article here.

Update 7.10.2020

The pandemic group of Pirkanmaa has decided in it’s meeting on 6 October that the face mask recommendation will extend to universities. Tampere University and TAMK instruct wearing a face mask at all times when on campus. Read more on the face mask recommendation on Intra. Low-income residents of Tampere can collect free face masks from distribution points, read more about the face mask distribution points on City of Tampere’s website.

The face mask recommendation also applies regarding SportUni. Read more about the face mask recommendation and SportUni on SportUni’s website.

Update 18.9.2020

The pandemic group of Tampere Universities in its meeting on 17 September discussed teaching arrangements and the opening hours of campuses for the rest of the year 2020. After the meeting, the managements of the Universities made their decisions on the matter. New guidelines become effective 28 September. Read more on the guidelines on the separate news article.

Update 26.8.2020

Below is an updated list on the University’s policies regarding the opening hours of campuses, access rights, EXAM venues and reserving premises in the autumn of 2020.

• In the autumn of 2020, the members of the university community can access campus premises with their key card, but the doors will remain closed to external persons. When visiting campus premises, please observe the safety precautions on safe distances, restrictions on gatherings and proper hygiene practices. So please maintain proper hand hygiene and do not come to the campus if you are sick!
• Student access rights have been reactivated on 3 August. They allow access to the premises on weekdays between 7:30 and 16:00. This also applies to access rights within campus premises.
• In buildings with EXAM venues, access rights to outer doors will remain valid until 20:00 to allow completing electronic examinations. Electronic examinations are possible on weekdays between 08:00 and 20:00.
• All campus premises must be vacated no later than 20:00.
• Between 17 and 21 August, and 24 and 28 August, buildings can be accessed without a key card through the doors located near information desks between 8:00 and 16:00.
• In the evenings and on weekends, campus premises except for SportUni facilities and examination venues remain closed to students.
• The facilities of student clubs, guilds and associations will be available to students authorised to access them on weekdays, but the necessary safety precautions must be observed. Safety distances of two meters must be observed and the facilities must be vacated no later than 20:00.
• Library premises can be accessed with a key card from Monday to Friday between 08:00 and 16:00. Customer service is open from 10:00 to 14:00.
• The university community’s restaurants have begun opening their doors from 10 August. Opening hours can be found in Intra through this link.
• Student associations can make reservations in the university’s premises in the autumn. No more than 50 people can be in the same room at the same time. It is possible to make the reservations from 7:30 until 20:00, but please bear in mind that the premises must be vacated at 20:00. The meetings must last less than two hours.
• Since a safety distance of two meters must always be observed, it is worth taking into consideration that even big premises can accommodate a surprisingly small number of people. If you are not sure if the room you are booking has the necessary capacity, please be in contact with the facility services at tilavaraus.tau@tuni.fi.

Update 17.8.2020

On Monday, 17th of August, TREY’s board decided to cancel all of the Student Union’s over 50 person events until the end of September. Because of this Wappu or Newcomers Orienteering, for example, are not organised this autumn. Associations operating within TREY can still organise their own events following the regulations by the Government of Finland.

Even though the Government’s current regulations do not inhibit the organising of student events, we in the Student Union want to be responsible and cancel our events because of the large number of potential participants. Read more on the decision on the news article.

Update 14.8.2020

The University has given new guidelines regarding the pandemic. A safe distance of two metres must be kept on campus from other people. A face mask must be worn if a safe distance cannot be kept. Do not come to the campus if you are showing any symptoms of illness.

Staff and students can access the campus premises with their personal key card. However, we recommend you only come to campus to work or study if it is absolutely necessary, for example, due to contact teaching or because you need access to specific software. A face mask is required in the EXAM venues and, for example, in the laboratories and while working with healthcare students where physical distancing is not possible because of the nature of the task at hand. In these situations staff and students will be provided with face masks by Tampere University.

Further instructions for students and teaching staff can be found on Intra.

Update 16.6.2020

The university community has given new guidelines regarding campus opening hours, access rights, EXAM venues and restaurant services in autumn 2020. Read the whole news article on Intra.

• Students and staff will be able to access the campus premises with their key card. All doors to the campus buildings will remain closed to external persons in autumn 2020. The necessary safety precautions must be observed in all the premises (safe distance of 2 metres, restrictions on gatherings, proper hygiene practices).
• Student access rights will be reactivated on 3 August to allow students to access the premises on weekdays between 7:30 and 16:00.
• In the buildings where EXAM venues are located, student access rights will remain valid until 19:00 to enable students to complete electronic examinations. The EXAM venues will be fully reopened on 3 August.
• All campus premises must be vacated no later than 20:00.
• The premises will remain closed to students after office hours and over the weekend, with the exception of SportUni’s facilities and EXAM venues.
• The facilities of student clubs, guilds and associations will be available to students authorised to access them on weekdays, but the necessary safety precautions must be observed. Update 18.6. A safety distance of two metres is required and the facilities must be vacated no later than 20:00. 
• More information will be provided soon about the University Library’s hours of operation next autumn.
• As of 3 August, the campus restaurants will be able to serve customers from 7:30 to 16:00 on weekdays in compliance with the nationwide guidelines that apply to restaurant services. 

Update 15.6.2020

The use of Emergency Powers Act will end – the restrictions set by the act will end by 16.6.

The Finnish Government decreed in its discussions on 15.6. that the coronavirus epidemic can be controlled by the regular mandate of the government. Thus the Emergency Powers Act has no reason to be in effect. The Finnish Government will in its general assembly today give terms of repealing the Emergency Powers Act and state that the country will no longer be under the terms of the martial law of the paragraph 3 of the Emergency Powers Acts.

The end of the restrictions does not mean that the threat of the pandemic is over or that all limitations will be removed. For example the restrictions regarding restaurants, meetings, visitations are decreed in regular legislation and these limits are still in place. The Government will discuss these limitations later this week.

Update 11.6.2020

The Finnish Government has decided to allow meetings of more than 500 people with special arrangements starting 1 July.

Update 8.6.2020

When the first period of the autumn semester begins, Tampere Universities will switch to mainly remote learning, meaning that students will only attend essential classes (such as laboratory classes, small group teaching sessions, or student support sessions) in person in campus locations. Lectures will primarily be delivered remotely.

When new students start their studies, classes may be held virtually or on campus as decided by degree programme staff or programme staff as long as the safety precautions and restrictions on gatherings are followed. The faculties and degree programme staff will welcome new students to the campuses in a safe and appropriate manner. Large-scale events during the Welcome Week will primarily be held virtually, but tutor groups will be able to meet in person on the campuses. Read more on Intra.

As for the second period in the autumn semester, more guidelines will be issued later when the scale of the coronavirus outbreak, potential risks and the effects of the restrictions are assessed.

Update 2.6.2020

Update 1.6.2020

On June 2 the gyms located at Kuntokatu and Hervanta campus will be reopened. The access to these facilities will be restricted and controlled. In addition Personal Training services and outdoor group excercise classes will become available. The restrictions that apply to the indoor courts and group exercise facilities will be reconsidered in mid-June.

 If association actives need to visit university premises during this time, it can be done by calling the info desk of the university’s main building during info’s opening hours.

Update 28.5.2020

Tampere University will not send students abroad to for exchange periods or internships in the autumn semester 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic. In addition universities will not host exchange students or interns next during the semester.

• This applies to all international mobility with the expection of joint or double degree students studying abroad or f.ex intensive courses
• Directly affected students will be personally contacted by International Mobility Services
• Applying for exchanges or internships will be possible later during the studies
  • more information about future applications and home internationalisation opportunities will be provided at a later date

You can find the update about this on the universities Intra. More information can be gotten from the mobility services mobility.tau(at)tuni.fi

Update 13.5.2020

A recovery plan for resuming the operations of Tampere Universities in a controlled manner has been drawn up. The purpose of this plan is to minimise the spread of the coronavirus, protect individuals who are at a greater risk of severe illness from COVID-19, facilitate the tracking of infection chains, and safeguard the continuity of education, research and graduation. The recovery plan is conditional on the stage of the pandemic and, if necessary, will be revised in response to new guidelines issued by the government. The plan has been discussed together with occupational safety representatives and chief trade union representatives.

The recovery plan covers matters like campus facilities, teaching, research, degree certificates, libraries and Summer University. Read more on Intra.

More detailed information about the continued restrictions will be provided next week at the latest. Tampere Universities provide regular updates on the coronavirus situation by continuously updating a news piece displayed on the intranet main page and via email. Send questions about the coronavirus situation to korona@tuni.fi.

Update 6.5.2020

Update 5.5.2020

The Finnish Government has decided to gradually lift the restrictive measures made regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. The Government has decided on the gradual dismantling of the following restrictive measures:

• The borrowing of books and other material from libraries will be immediately permitted.
• As of 14 May, employment or commission-related commuting and other essential traffic will be lifted in cross-border traffic across the Schengen internal borders.
• Restrictions concerning general upper secondary schools, vocational schools, higher education institutions and liberal education will remain in force until 13 May. However, the Government recommends that these institutes continue distance teaching until the end of the semester. Tampere University will make decisions on this matter later this May.

As of 1 June 2020:

• The gradual opening of restaurants will begin.
• Outdoor recreational facilities will be opened, subject to the restrictions on gatherings.
• Sports competitions and series can be resumed with special arrangements.
• Public indoor premises, such as museums, theatres and sports facilities will be opened in a gradual manner.
• The restrictions on gatherings will be eased from the current 10 to a maximum of 50.

Public events with more than 500 people are prohibited until 31 July. The recommendation on working from home is continued until further notice. The recommendation will be reassessed after summer. The restrictions concerning visits to healthcare and social welfare units will remain in force until further notice. Read more on the Government’s decisions here.

Update 23.4.2020

TheFinnish Government met 22 April, to update Finland’s coronavirus strategy for preventing the spread of COVID-19.

The efforts to curb the progress of the epidemic in Finland have been successful so far. Consequently, the Government considers that Finland can transfer gradually and in a controlled way from a situation in which there are extensive restrictive measures in society to one in which the epidemic is managed through enhanced measures, in line with the Communicable Diseases Act. However, the restrictive measures cannot all be lifted at once, because the situation is still serious.

A preparation group is to draw up a plan by 1 May for exiting the restrictive measures in a timely manner and for moving to the next stage in curbing the progress of the disease. The Government is to meet on 3 May to discuss the matter.

Update 16.4.2020

The University has a number of laptops available for the students to loan if their own device is i.e. broken. Students must agree on the pick-up of loan devices in advance with the IT Helpdesk

Laptops that are available for loan to students can be collected from the Hervanta campus, the city centre campus and the TAMK main campus. As the number of laptops is limited, they can only be borrowed by students who urgently need them. Please send an inquiry about the availability of loan devices to the IT Helpdesk in advance (it-helpdesk@tuni.fi). Read more from university intra here.

Update 15.4.2020

The Government has decided to lift the restrictions on movement in Uusimaa starting 15. April. The Government continues to recommend that all unnecessary travel, such as leisure travel, be avoided also in Finland. Other measures and restrictions to limit the epidemic and protect the population must also be continued and followed. Read more on the Government’s website here.

Update 8.4.2020

Information on submitting application for extension during spring semester 2020

If your right to study has expired, your faculty may grant you an extension on application to complete your studies. If the right to study expires at the end of the spring semester (31 July), the application must be submitted by 30 April. Read more on Intra.

Update 2.4.2020

All members of the Tampere Universities community will receive a survey titled ”Well-being survey 2020 – Working during the coronavirus pandemic” in their emails next Monday 6 April. The survey explores how the members of the Tampere Universities community have adjusted to working and studying remotely and how the current situation has affected our staff and students.

Update 31.3.2020

On Monday 30 March, the Finnish government decided to extend the duration of the previously imposed restrictions until 13 May 2020. The government will issue these new restrictions to the parliament on Tuesday 31 March. With this decision, schools will remain closed, the previously set limitations on public gatherings will remain effective and other measures taken with the Emergency Powers Act will be extended by one month. The government is prepared to extend the exceptional arrangements in education until the end of the spring term if this is deemed necessary to contain the pandemic. Read the whole article here.

Update 30.3.2020

Juvenes has developed an order system to make student lunches more accessible in these exceptional circumstances. Read more in a separate news article on our website here.

Update 27.3.2020

Sisu and graduating

The schedules relating to graduation and the implementation of the new Sisu student information system will remain unchanged despite the coronavirus pandemic. If you are planning to graduate by 17 June, you must submit your maturity test and thesis for examination no later than 29 April 2020. The university information systems will be completely closed from 18 June to 4 August. The full-scale implementation of Sisu will begin 5 August. Read more on Intra and get to know the principles of recognition of prior learning on Student’s Guide.

Update 26.3.2020

Yesterday, 25 March, the Government decided to restrict traffic between the Region of Uusimaa and other regions of Finland from 27 March to 19 April. The purpose of the new restrictions is to slow the spread of the epidemic from Uusimaa to other parts of Finland, since the virus has developed faster in Uusimaa than in other regions. On 25 March, the Government submitted to Parliament a decree concerning the use of powers under the Emergency Powers Act relating to these restrictions on movement in Uusimaa. Read more on this topic on the Government’s website!

Update 16.3.2020

The Finnish Government held a press conference today on 16 March and told that the government will prepare the implementation of the Emergency Powers Act in its meeting tomorrow. “The purpose of this Act is to secure the livelihood of the population and the national economy, to maintain legal order and constitutional and human rights, and to safeguard the territorial integrity and independence of Finland in emergency conditions” (Finlex). The Emergency Powers Act will be implemented to contain the coronavirus epidemic. The restrictions set by the act will be in effect until 13 April. The act will put into effect the following restrictions that will impact us students:

• The premises for schools, educational institutions, universities and universities of applied sciences as well as adult education centres and other cultural work centres are closed, and contact teaching is suspended until 18 March 2020. However, early childhood education centres and preschool education will remain in action. This way, the access of the children of the personnel of fields critical to the functioning of society is ensured and the work of their parents enabled. The government outlines that the parents and guardians who can organise childcare at home should do so.
• Public gatherings are limited to 10 people and it is recommended to avoid non-essential activities in public places.
• Museums, theatres, the National Opera, cultural centres, libraries, mobile libraries, the visitor and reading room services of the National Archives, hobby facilities and locations, swimming pools and other sports facilities, youth facilities, club facilities, meeting facilities for associations, daytime activities of the elderly, rehabilitative work and work centres are closed or suspended. It is recommended for private and third sectors and religious communities to also do this.
• Finns and people residing permanently in Finland returning from abroad are directed to a two-week quarantine. Those returning from abroad should agree with their employer on the date of returning to work and on the two-week absence.
• People’s movement may be restricted in case of serious threat to lives and health.
• Visits to the housing service centres of the elderly and other risk groups are prohibited. Outsiders’ visits to nursing homes, health care units and hospitals are also prohibited, excluding the visits of symptom-free close relatives and children of the critically ill, the close relatives of patients in terminal care as well as the support person in the labour ward. These are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

We monitor the situation actively with the university and update information for our students here. We will soon find out how this will affect matters such as the organising of exams and graduation in practice. Current information on the university guidelines can be found on the intranet. Questions about the coronavirus pandemic can be directed to korona@tuni.fi. The student union’s contact person is Laura Kaipia (laura.kaipia@trey.fi).

Previously

TREY’s previous news about the coronavirus can be found here:

• Corona FAQ 17.3.
• Coronavirus and Kela financial aids 16 March
• The University will switch entirely to online instruction as of 16 March 13 March
• The consequences of coronavirus and measures required from students 12 March
• What to do if you are worried about the coronavirus 9 March