Ben-Gurion University of the Negev Ongoing updates regarding the coronavirus

Wishing you good health!

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March 9, 2022 - Return to working full-time from campus

In light of the decreased morbidity rate and additional roll back of government restrictions, all Green Pass restrictions on campus have been cancelled except for the requirement to wear a face mask in closed areas.

Regarding administrative and technical staff, please note that as of March 13, 2022, we will resume on-campus work full time. Individual requests in extraordinary circumstances should be forwarded to superiors (head of administration or deputy director general), who will consider approval of up to one day of work from home per week.

Working from home will continue to be allowed only if the employee is capable of performing all tasks from home. In addition, attendance reporting rules for working from home will remain in place.

In cases in which employees or their children are required to be in isolation in their home, superiors may approve work from home for more than one day per week, for the duration of the isolation period.

We wish you good health and a safe and easy return to your normal routine,

Idit Sela
Deputy Director General for Human Resources

February 7, 2022 - special frontal exams

Dear Students,

If you go into isolation you must report this via the university site.

In order to be approved for a special frontal exam (Mo’ed Meyuhad) due to involuntary isolation, you must provide the required documents:

» If you went into isolation during the month of January – please send your request to the teaching committee and include a signed statement including the reason for the isolation and the dates.

» If you went into isolation during the month of February – once you complete the online declaration you will receive an email confirmation. This should be attached to your request for a special exam term.

» Application for a special online exam term (due to being ill with Corona virus during the exam time) will include proof of positive corona test (on-site only, not a self-test) in addition to the above isolation declaration/email confirmation.

Please note that the information provided will be validated with what appears in the database.

Prof. Timor Melamed
Pro-Rector for Teaching

February 2, 2022 - Cancellation of Green Pass Presentation

In accordance with the government decision and Ministry of Health instructions concerning Coronavirus, please note the update of campus regulations:

1. From Monday 07.02.2022, entrance to campus will not require a Green Pass or negative Coronavirus test.

2. Instructions regarding open and closed spaces should be followed – especially wearing a mask in closed spaces, social distancing and personal hygiene. Please note that not wearing a mask is considered as a disciplinary offence.

3. To protect ourselves and those we come into contact with, if you are ill – even if not Coronavirus related, you should stay at home and not come to the University.

January 23, 2022 - Clarification of Instructions

We would like to clarify and remind you not to come to campus under any circumstances and especially not to exams if you have been found to be Corona positive or have been exposed to a Corona positive person and have not yet received a negative test result.

Coming to campus while Corona positive or after exposure to a Corona positive person, without a negative test result, is not only illegal but is against the principles of solidarity and endangers everyone encountering you.

If arrival at the campus is against this instruction, the University will deal with it as a disciplinary offence for all intents and purposes.

To help, this week the University will again operate an institutional antigen testing station at the Mexico Gate. The station will operate between 07.30-15.30

Wishing you good health.

January 13, 2022 - Rapid Corona Tests at the Mexico Bridge Entrance (16-20/1/22)

We will conduct a pilot program of a rapid corona test station for those who do not have a Green Pass or a valid negative test.

The testing station will be at the entrance from the Stephen and David Breslauer Mexico Bridge. The station will be open from Sunday January 16, 2022 until Thursday January 20, 2022, between 7:30 AM and 3:30 PM.
Tests will only be conducted on those presenting employee or student cards!
Results will arrive by SMS 15-25 minutes after the test and must be shown at the gate along with an accompanying ID.
Each test costs NIS 50 only
payable by credit card in advance
Vaccinated or recovered individuals with a Green Pass can be tested for free (until further notice)

Entry into the University is dependent on presenting a valid Green Pass/negative test result and a form of identification. Please prepare your documents in advance.

Masks must be worn in closed public spaces!

January 5, 2022 - Moving to online classes

Considering rising infection rates and the importance of maintaining the exam schedule, here are several decisions which were taken:

The last week of the semester (January 9-14) will move online. Hands on training courses, teaching labs, and clinical training will continue to be held on campus with everyone masked.
The campuses will remain open and students are invited to study in the libraries, the computer rooms, and other study areas, while remaining masked indoors.
Research activities continue as usual.
We have expanded the examination period to reduce the number of students taking examinations in each classroom. While this required changing the exam schedule, we did so to have the exams in person while still safeguarding everyone’s health. The full exam schedule should be published by the end of the week.
Exams must be taken masked.

The decision to move to online teaching was taken to assist in reducing the risk of conducting exams in person according to the new exam schedule.

We request that you adhere to the regulations, especially mask wearing in closed spaces. Failure to wear a mask is now a disciplinary violation.

If you enter quarantine, you must report it to the corona coordinator.

For information about exposure to people confirmed to be infected on campus. (info is in Hebrew).

Wishing you a successful examination period,

Prof. Chaim Hames
Rector

December 23, 2021 - Changes in the academic calendar

Dear BGU Community,

We are all following the fast-spreading Omicron variant with concern. In order to be able to continue with academic life while taking steps to protect the health of all those entering campus, the academic calendar will be revised as follows:

1. First semester will end as scheduled. Until end of first semester, courses taking place in classrooms with a system that enables hybrid study may be attended online (the lecturer will decide whether to allow active participation of students who are not physically present in the classroom).

2. The exam period will begin January 16, 2022 and end March 18, 2022. Please note that the exam schedule posted at the beginning of the semester will change as a result. The new exam schedule will be posted as soon as it is ready. These changes are being made to ensure that exams can be held frontally and safely while spacing the classes and preventing crowdedness in closed areas.

3. The second semester will begin March 20, 2022 and will end July 1, 2022.

4. During the week before Passover, classes will be conducted online on Wednesday-Thursday, April 13-14, 2022

5. Exam period for second semester will begin July 3, 2022 – one week after the original planned date.

It is essential that we all adhere to regulations. It is especially important to wear masks in the classroom at all times.

Best regards and stay safe,

Prof. Chaim Hames
Rector

October 6, 2021 - Updates from Hr to Administrative and Technical Staff

BGU's Administrative and Technical Staff,

We would like to update you that from Sunday October 10, and prior to the opening of the new academic year, we will return to work as normal on our campuses.

Entrance to our campuses is possible only in accordance with the Green Pass regulations, that is by presenting a Green Pass or a negative Coronavirus test (PCR or quick antigen test carried out in the previous 48 hours).

Working from home will be possible, and only with your supervisor’s prior approval, in the following cases:

• staff who are required to isolate at home

• staff who are required to take care of a child in isolation at home

• staff at high-risk who have not been vaccinated (and who have a related medical certificate and HR approval), can work from home with the approval of their supervisor for up to two days a week and the remainder of the days come to campus with a negative Coronavirus test.

Working from home is possible only for those who can complete all their work from home.

The regulations for reporting hours worked at home will remain the same. In all other cases, supervisors will request prior HR approval.

Wishing us all good health, and a quick and safe return to normality.

Hagai Horesh
HR Director
Administrative and Technical Staff

October 5, 2021 - Updates from the rector, ahead of the new academic year

Dear Students,

As we prepare for the start of the academic year on October 17, 2021 and a return to normality on campus, I would like to bring to your attention the following things:

1. Campuses are operating according to the Green Pass. Every time you enter, you will be asked to show your Green Pass or a negative corona test whose expiration is determined by the Health Ministry (at present, a PCR test is valid for up to 72 hours and a rapid test, is valid for up to 24 hours).

2. Masks must be worn in closed spaces (buildings, classrooms, libraries, laboratories, etc.). It is especially important to wear masks in classrooms and teaching labs. The lecturer can remove their mask during the lectures if they so choose.

3. Teaching will take place in person in the classrooms unless otherwise announced. Some classes have been designated as online classes and others will be conducted in a hybrid fashion (primarily if there are not enough seats for all the students). All the information about courses and how they will be taught is available in the coursebook or via the departmental secretaries.

4. The lecturers are committed to your success, and it is their responsibility to help those who have justified reasons for not attending class (whether immune-suppressed with permission from the Dean of Students, quarantine, reserve duty, etc.) to make up the course material. Our recommendation to the Faculty is to record their lectures, but it is the decision of the lecturer whether to do so and how to share the recordings.

5. If the lecturer is forced to go into quarantine but can continue to teach, the course will move online for the period of the quarantine. The lecturer will inform you about the move to online teaching as well as the return to the classroom after quarantine ends.

6. If you have entered quarantine, it is important to notify the lecturer ASAP so they can help you. Quarantine represents a justified absence from attending classes or exams.

7. The course syllabus should include alternate testing and grading options to be implemented if we cannot conduct the examination period in person because of Health Ministry guidelines.

Beginning the school year in person is important not just to you, but for us, the Faculty, as well. We have learned that, while we can successfully conduct classes online, it is no substitute for the academic and intellectual life on campus, many aspects of which cannot be replicated in the virtual world. I look forward to seeing you soon on campus and hope you will make good use of your time, not just to gain knowledge but also for personal development and community service.

We ask that you take responsibility for your own health and the health of the whole community and if you are not feeling well, please refrain from coming to campus.

The University is obligated to uphold Health Ministry regulations and Corona restrictions; we will inform you of any changes should the need arise.

Wishing us all a stimulating, fruitful, successful, enjoyable, and regular academic year!

Prof. Chaim Hames
Rector

October 3, 2021 - Updated campus Corona regulations

Members of the University community,

In the wake of government decisions and Health Ministry regulations, please be aware that the conditions for receiving a Green Pass have been updated . We recommend everyone who has a Green Pass reissue it through the Traffic Light app or the Health Ministry website.

The following is an update regarding campus regulations beginning Sunday October 3, 2021 until further notice.

Campus entry will only be permitted to those with a Green Pass, a statement that they are recovering from Corona, or a negative result on a coronavirus test (PCR/Rapid tests will be valid for 72 hours), to be presented alongside proof of identity (ID card, driver’s license, or passport). Children under the age of 16 who do not have ID cards can present a copy of their parent’s ID card, including the supplemental document (Sefach).

Please follow the guidelines in open and closed spaces – especially mask wearing in closed spaces, physical distancing and personal hygiene. Any questions should be directed to the social workers in the HR Department.

Classes, tests, practical training workshops and teaching lab activities will be held in person unless otherwise stated by the department in accordance with Green Pass regulations.

Research labs and libraries will continue activities as usual in accordance with regulations (mask wearing etc.).

Conferences and events are subject to the regulations of the Events Committee and the Corona Supervisor, Naftali Presler. Every event over 10 people (whether inside or outside) must be approved and instructions for holding the event provided by Naftali Presler. Link to the request form.

Anyone who comes in contact with a confirmed coronavirus patient must inform the Corona Supervisor as soon as possible. One of the most important ways to curb mass infection is to swiftly act to quarantine all those who came into contact with a confirmed coronavirus patient. Link to report quarantine.

We call on all members of the University community who have not yet been vaccinated for the coronavirus to do so. Wishing everyone a successful, stimulating, and healthy school year.

August 17, 2021 - Update: Conduct on Campus during the Coronavirus

Dear Ben-Gurion University Community,

Following Government and Ministry of Health Decisions, an update follows regarding conduct on campus from Wednesday, August 18, 2021 and until further notice:

1. Entrance to campus is only for those with a Green Pass, recovery certificate or a negative PCR Coronavirus test taken in the previous 72 hours or a quick test in the previous 24 hours. Staff who are not vaccinated because of medical reasons should contact the HR welfare section. Students who are not vaccinated are asked to contact the Dean of Students.

2. Regulations should be followed regarding conduct in both open and closed spaces, but especially mask wearing in closed spaces.

3. Lessons, exams, and teaching lab activities will continue to be both frontal and hybrid.

4. Research lab and library activities will continue to operate as usual and in accordance with regulations (mask wearing etc.).

5. Conferences and events will take place in accordance with instructions from the events committee and Coronavirus coordinator, while there is a preference to hold conferences and events online as much as is possible. Every event with more than 10 participants (in a building or open space) must have permission and instructions from the Coronavirus supervisor, which you can receive by completing the online form.

6. The Coronavirus supervisor must be contacted in every case of a staff member / student / guest testing positive for the virus. One of the most important ways to prevent mass infection is by quickly taking steps to isolate all those who have been in contact with the verified person. Declaration form for isolation.

We ask that those who have not yet been vaccinated do so as soon as possible.

August 12, 2021 - Update: Conduct on Campus during the Coronavirus

Dear Ben-Gurion University Community,

Following Government and Ministry of Health Decisions, an update follows regarding conduct on campus from today (12.08.21) and until further notice:

Entrance to campus is only for those with a Green Pass, recovery certificate or a negative PCR Coronavirus test taken in the previous 72 hours. Staff who are unable to present a Green Pass or a negative PCR Coronavirus test taken in the previous 72 hours should contact the HR welfare section.
Regulations should be followed regarding conduct in both open and closed spaces, but especially mask wearing in closed spaces.
Lessons, exams, and teaching lab activities will continue to be both frontal and hybrid.
Research lab and library activities will continue to operate as usual and in accordance with regulations (mask wearing etc.).
Conferences and events will take place in accordance with instructions from the events committee and Coronavirus coordinator, while there is a preference to hold conferences and events online as much as is possible.

We ask that those who have not yet been vaccinated do so as soon as possible.

August 8, 2021 - Updated Campus Regulations

Dear Ben-Gurion University community,

As a result of the precipitous rise in confirmed coronavirus cases and in an effort to stop the spread of the virus; following the government decision to expand the Green Pass, here are the regulations which will enter into effect on Sunday August 8, 2021.

1. As of now, entry into university campuses will not require proof of vaccination/proof of recovery/negative corona test. However, we are all witness once again to the rapid spread of the virus and it is likely we will have to revisit this decision in the future.

2. All events with over 10 participants (whether inside or outside) must receive the permission and instructions from the University’s corona officer using this online form.

3. All University cafeterias will only offer take-away. Sit down dining will be prohibited.

4. Masks must be worn inside, as well as outside in gatherings of more than 100 people.

5. Every instance of an employee/student/guest who was confirmed positive for the virus must be reported to the corona officer. One of the most important ways to prevent a super spreader event is to quickly quarantine anyone who was exposed to the ill person. Link to quarantine declaration.

6. University members: anyone who is not feeling well (fever, difficulty breathing, coughing), even if you are vaccinated, is requested not to come to campus, report to their supervisor/department, and schedule a coronavirus test. Returning to work/campus will only be permitted after a negative test result.

7. Do not bring your children to campus. It is important to adhere to this regulation especially now during summer vacation in light of rising infection rates and the fact that young children are unvaccinated.

8. Given the situation, supervisors at the level of deputy director-general/vice presidents/administrative heads can permit employees to work from home up to 2 days a week, primarily where the workspace is unsafe. Employees can be moved to separate spaces to prevent overcrowding.

Here are a number of clarifications regarding permission to work from home:

1. Working from home, in accordance with the supervisor’s decision, will be allowed only to those who have the ability to work from home. Employees working from home must be available by phone and computer during all work hours.

2. It is up to the supervisor to decide who will work from home and who will not and which days of the week they will do so.

3. Please try not to work from home on consecutive days.

4. The supervisor should define clear daily goals; verify they were accomplished, and be in continuous contact with the employees in their unit.

5. Working from home must be reported for the number of hours allotted by the supervisor and actually carried out , and will not exceed 8 hours a day for an employee working full time.

6. No overtime is available on days when working from home.

7. Working from home more than two days a week will not be approved, with the exception of employees in high risk categories (who have the medical documentation attesting to their status); those in quarantine, whose supervisors have given them permission to work from home during the quarantine period, with the permission of the deputy director-general for human resources.

8. In person meetings should be moved online or by phone.

9. These regulations will remain in effect until further notice.

We call on all those who have not yet been vaccinated to go get vaccinated! The vaccination is effective. It reduces the risk of infection, and in most of the cases where someone was infected, the vaccine prevented serious illness.

The University Administration

August 2, 2021 - Corona Instructions updates - The Return of the Green Pass

Dear BGU Community,

From August 2, 2021, and in accordance with instructions, the Green Pass will come into effect. Please see the updated instructions:

1. Any event taking place in a closed space with 100 or more participants, requires the approval of the Corona coordinator, who will then give relevant instructions. Please complete the online form.

2. Regarding any event / conference taking place in a building with part in an open space for 100 or more people, which includes the serving of or sale of food: entrance will be permitted only to those with a Green Pass or those with a negative test from the previous 72 hours (PCR, not a quick test).

3. We would like to remind you that the wearing of masks in closed spaces on campus is obligatory. There is proof that the Delta variant is contagious during a shorter period of exposure and as such, mask wearing is much more important than it was in the past!

4. Please report immediately to the Coronavirus coordinator any case of a staff member / student / guest who have tested positive and who have been on campus. One of the most important ways to prevent mass infection is in quickly taking steps to isolate those who have been in contact with a verified patient. Online report form

5. A staff member who does not feel well (fever, breathing difficulties, cough), even if he is vaccinated, should have a test carried out by his health provider and follow their instructions. Please do not come to work until you have a negative test.

6. We would like to remind you not to bring children to work. Now, during the summer vaca considering the rise in Coronavirus infection rates and the fact that children are not vaccinated, it's especially important to follow regulations.

Please keep yourself and others safe.

April 20, 2021 - Campuses and buildings entrance guidelines

Following the recent governmental decisions re. the Coronavirus guidelines, we have decided the following:

Starting today (20.4.2021) until further notice, entrance to the university campuses is permitted for anyone with a Green Pass or anyone who has filled in a Declaration of Health.
Entrance to classrooms is only for those with a Green Pass or a negative coronavirus test done in the last 72 hours.
Wearing of masks is obligatory in the classrooms (lecturers do not have to wear a mask) as is only sitting in the permitted places for seating.
Teaching Labs and professional training will continue to be carried out according to the “Purple" guidelines.
Entrance to any building on campus is permitted only when wearing a mask and sitting in cafeterias is only allowed for those with a Green Pass.

For the welfare of everyone coming to the university, please follow the guidelines.

Thank you all for your cooperation.
Prof. Chaim Hames, Rector

March 18, 2021 - Update for Administrative and Technical Staff Members – Returning to Campus after the Passover Vacation

Dear Staff Members,

As a result of vaccinations and a fall in Coronavirus infection rates, the economy is slowly returning to normal and as such, also the University. Immediately after the Passover vacation (from Sunday April 4, 2021), the campus will return to the following activities: hybrid classes (frontal and online teaching), labs, the libraries will open, workshops and meetings can take place, reception of the public and so on.

As a result of the above, there will be a significant increase in the number of people on our campuses and we are returning to fully working on campus (working from home will be approved only in exceptional circumstances). To keep everyone safe, entrance to campus (for students, faculty, staff and visitors) will be for those with a Green Pass / Vaccination Certificate / Recovery Certificate, or a negative Coronavirus test from the previous 72 hours. Throughout campus, “Purple Label” guidelines will continue to be followed, including wearing masks and following social distancing.

In practice, this means that staff members who are unable to show a Green Pass / Vaccination Certificate / Recovery Certificate at the campus entrances, will be required to show a negative Coronavirus test from the previous 72 hours. Those unable to do so will be refused entrance to campus.

Staff members who have not been vaccinated for medical reasons (and who have a medical certificate confirming this) and as such do not have a Green Pass / Vaccination Certificate, are asked to contact the HR social worker Maayan Kimchi by telephone: 77758 or mail: maayank@bgu.ac.il or you HR coordinator in order to receive a special pass to enter campus.

Dear BGU community, we are dependent on each other. Each one of us should take personal responsibility so as not to endanger our colleagues and the students returning to campus.

We call upon everyone who can to get vaccinated. This is the only way to return the campus to normal and to protect one another.

Wishing you a Happy Passover and Good Health.

Shimon Ishay

March 14, 2021 - Instructions regarding returning to the university campuses from April 4th

Dear Students,

Thanks to the vaccinations, we can live along with the Coronavirus which looks as if it will be with us for some time to come. In order to return to BGU's campuses safely after the Passover vacation (from April 4th, 2021), I ask that all those who have not yet been vaccinated do so as quickly as possible. Each one of us is dependent on the conduct of others and we need solidarity and individual responsibility so that we can function as a productive, active and lively academic community.

As such, it's important that we follow instructions throughout campus (outside and inside buildings, classrooms, labs, libraries, cafeterias etc.) including wearing masks and keeping physical distancing.

Instructions Regarding Returning to the University Campuses from April 4th, 2021:

Entrance to and Exit from BGU's Campuses:

» Entrance will be for students with a green pass who will show the certificate on entering campus.

» Students who do not have a green pass can enter campus only via the Gate of Knowledge and the Mexico Gate after they have shown a negative Coronavirus test (from the previous 72 hours), and only to participate in teaching laboratories / practical training. They will be required to register on entering campus, stating the purpose of their coming to campus, and on exiting to report that they have left campus.

» Clarification – students who do not have a green pass cannot use the study areas and cannot enter the libraries or cafeterias.

» Research labs will continue to operate under strict “Purple Label" guidelines. A research lab in which all the faculty, technical staff and research students have green passes can operate under the “Green Label" guidelines.

» Students who are unable to be vaccinated due to medical reasons will present a medical certificate confirming this to the Dean of Students and subject to the approval of the Dean of Student's Medical Committee, can receive a special entrance pass to campus. On entering campus, those students will complete a health declaration and have their temperature taken.

» Stewards from the Security Department will make random checks throughout campus and at the entrances of halls and classrooms, to ensure you have a green pass.

Entrance to and Exit from Study Classrooms:

» Entrance to classrooms is only for those with green passes and who have registered in advance via the app.

» No-one is allowed to sit in the first row and you should sit in marked seats, leaving at least one seat empty between students.

» You should not enter a building unless you have a specific class. Likewise, as far as is possible, please make the time between you enter the building and enter the classroom as short as possible, try and keep social distancing from other students and avoid gathering within the building.

» At the end of a class, you should immediately leave the classroom and the building, to allow safe entrance to those arriving for the next class.

» Students who want to talk to the lecturer at the end of the class are asked to do so in open air and not in the classroom.

» All classes, both in the hybrid classroom and regular classrooms will be recorded for those students who are unable to be physically present or to connect.

» A lecturer who does not record the class is obligated to find another solution for those students who cannot make class.

» There are classes which will continue online only – you should contact the relevant department or lecturer.

» Courses taking place in hybrid classrooms where attendance is obligatory, physical or online attendance is acceptable.

» Students who do not have green passes can come to teaching labs and practical training which continue to operate under “Purple Label" guidelines (social distancing of at least 2 meters and a reduced number of students) – the students are requested to arrive as close as possible to the starting time and to leave as soon as possible at the end.

» Drinking and /or eating is forbidden in classrooms.

» In classroom buildings stewards from the Security Department are responsible to ensure that there are no large gatherings.

Activities on Campus:

» Those with green passes can use study areas (which will be marked) throughout campus while keeping social distancing and wearing a mask.

» Those with green passes can hold academic / student activities in open areas in accordance with guidelines – prior approval should be sought from BGU's Coronavirus Supervisor.

» Sitting in the cafeterias will only be in accordance with the “Green Label".

» Demonstrations on campus – according to the regulations regarding political activities, with prior approval from BGU's Coronavirus Supervisor and a distance of at least 2 meters between demonstrators.

» Leisure activities – in accordance with regulations and with prior approval from BGU's Coronavirus Supervisor.

» Students' children will not be permitted to enter campus.

» We are hopeful that the infection rate will continue to drop, that there will be no further lockdowns and that we can return to studying on campus after Passover.

Looking forward to seeing you on campus!

Prof. Chaim Hames
Rector

March 7, 2021 - BGU will continue remote learning until Passover

Ben-Gurion University of the Negev will continue remote learning until Passover.Teaching labs and hands-on training will take place according to the Purple Label guidelines. Physical distancing and wearing a mask are required on campus.

The University is preparing for hybrid and in-person teaching after Passover in accordance with the guidelines and in the hope that infection rates do not rise.

Campus entry will be allowed under the Green Label! Go get vaccinated! That is the only way we can reopen campus safely.

February 9, 2021 - From tomorrow, a health declaration will no longer be required for faculty and staff only

From tomorrow, Wednesday February 10, 2021, a health declaration will no longer be required for faculty and staff. Entrance to campus will require having your temperature taken.

Entering the campus is still conditional upon signing a health declaration for students and visitors.

Naftali Preysler - Head, Security Departmen

January 7, 2021 - Strict lockdown - instructions for administrative and technical staff

From midnight this evening, a stricter lockdown will commence. Studies and research will continue as usual during the lockdown, along with the work carried out by the administrative and technical staff.

From this coming Sunday, January 10, 2021, work will be carried out as follows:

1. If it is possible and is approved by your direct supervisor, you can, and it is recommended that you work from home, as long as you come to campus at least one day a week. Staff who cannot work from home can come to campus and are requested to follow the “Purple Label” instructions. I would like to remind you that working from home requires availability by telephone and by mail during working hours, a suitable work environment with access to the University system and the rerouting of telephone calls from your office phone to your cell phone.

2. Staff who can carry out their work only on campus, or whose direct supervisors request that they work on campus, will come to work as usual. There is no need for special approval to travel to work.

3. If a staff member is required to come to work on campus and for any reason you are unable to do so, or are unable to work from home, you should list this as vacation on your monthly attendance report.

4. Staff members who are requested to work on campus and are unable to do so because of medical reasons, should list this as illness on your monthly attendance report and attach a relevant medical certificate.

4. If working from home, you should list the hours as “work at home” (up to 8 hours a day). There is no approval to work extra hours at home.

5. Staff members in isolation (their own or because of their children), can work a full day from home if possible, with the approval of your direct supervisor. If you are unable to work from home, can list those days as sick leave. In this case, you requested to complete the form BGU Report on Isolation.

6. Apart from the above, there is no change in instructions concerning sick leave.

7. On coming to campus, please follow the “Purple Label” rules and practice social distancing.

During the lockdown, staff members can enter our campuses. Entry for students, suppliers and visitors will be permitted only with a permit arranged ahead of time.

We will continue to send updates, as necessary, during the lockdown.

We have every hope that we’ll soon return to a healthy and pleasant daily routine.

Shimon Ishai

Dec 27, 2020 - Third lockdown - instructions for administrative and technical staff

Dear Staff Members,

From 17.00 this evening, we will be in the third lockdown. The University administration is doing everything it can to balance the day-to-day work routine and protect your health.

Studies and research will continue as usual during the lockdown, and so will the work carried out by the administrative and technical staff.

During the upcoming lockdown (from Monday December 28, 2020), work will be carried out as follows:

1. If it is possible and is approved by your direct supervisor, you can work up to three days a week from home. Working from home requires availability by telephone and by mail during working hours, a suitable work environment with access to the University system and the rerouting of telephone calls from your office phone to your cell phone.

2. Staff who can carry out their work only on campus, or whose direct supervisors request that they work on campus, will come to work as usual. There is no need for special approval in order to travel to work.

4. If working from home, you should list the hours as “work at home" (up to 8 hours a day). There is no approval to work extra hours at home.

5. Staff members in isolation (their own or because of their children) and are unable to work from home, can list those days as sick leave. In this case, you requested to complete the form BGU Report on Isolation.

6. Apart from the above, there is no change in instructions concerning sick leave.

7. On coming to campus, please follow the “Purple Label" rules and practice social distancing.

8. To view gate opening hours and security department services, please click here (in Hebrew).

9. Dining services on campus: During the lockdown, cafeterias, restaurants and the remainder of commercial services will remain closed apart from the Kapiot dairy cafeteria in the Zlotowski Student Center (#70), which will operate between 07.00 – 16.00 from Sunday to Thursday as a convenience store, offering only pre-packed products.

During the lockdown, staff members can enter our campuses. Entry for students, suppliers and visitors will be permitted only with a permit arranged ahead of time.

We will continue to send updates, as necessary, during the lockdown.

We all hope that we'll soon return to a healthy and pleasant daily routine.

Shimon Ishai

Dec 12, 2020 - Clarification of Corona Instructions

To Members of the Ben-Gurion University Community,

Please find Iisted below a number of clarifications regarding the implementation of instructions from the Ministry of Health and Council for Higher Education at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev.

It is forbidden to come from restricted areas – someone living in an area which has been designated a “restricted area" is forbidden from coming to campus. For the list of restricted areas which is constantly updated.
A student who is requested to come to campus but cannot do so because of illness, isolation or lives in a restricted area is asked to contact his department to receive further instructions.
A staff member living in a restricted area can work from home, with the approval of his direct supervisor. Regarding a staff member whose work can be carried out on campus only, or if his direct supervisor does not give approval, the rules applying to those in isolation will also apply to him.
Children – Entrance to campus is currently approved only for staff and or those students requested to come to campus, or with permission to do so. According to the instructions of the University's Emergency Forum, children are not permitted on campus under any circumstances.
If you are in isolation, you are obligated to report this to the University by using the online form.
Every person entering campus is obligated to complete a heath declaration and show it on entrance.
All members of the BGU community, staff and students, returning from abroad are requested to contact the University's corona supervisor, in order to receive the appropriate instructions and permission to enter campus.
We once again remind you that it is obligatory to wear a mask, keep social distancing of 2 meters and to wash your hands frequently.

Only by taking personal responsibility and showing solidarity can we prevent a coronavirus outbreak on campus.

Nov 19, 2020 - Teaching labs, workshops and practical training in person will be conducted on campus, beginning November 22, 2020.

Dear students,

We have received permission from the Ministry of Health and the Council for Higher Education to conduct teaching labs, workshops and practical training in person on campus, beginning Sunday November 22, 2020.

Notices about dates for labs, workshops and trainings will be forthcoming from your lecturers and departmental secretaries as soon as possible. Questions should be directed to your department.

Likewise, some of the tests will be administered on campus, in accordance with permission given to conduct 10% of tests on campus. Test dates and formats will be communicated by the departments and questions should be directed to them.

We would like to emphasize that all other types of in-person teaching are still prohibited and therefore will continue remotely.

Students in high risk health groups, who received permission from the Office of the Dean of Students, are requested to contact their lecturers to inquire how to make up the materials in the best possible manner.

Students without the requisite home internet infrastructure for online learning are invited to request permission from the Office of the Dean of Students to come to campus and use the independent study areas prepared for you. Unfortunately, the number of students allowed on campus at any given time is limited. Campus entry will only be granted to those with permission from the Office of the Dean of Students. To request permission, please use this online form.

Students coming to campus to participate in teaching labs, workshops, practical training or to take a test are invited to use the independent study areas provided as well.

All campus activities are being conducted in accordance with Purple Badge (Tav Segol) regulations, which you are required to abide by: physical distances of 2 meters between people, wearing a mask over your mouth and nose at all times, disinfecting, cleaning and proper hygiene. Gatherings are prohibited on campus, including for eating, drinking or smoking. Eating is permitted only while sitting in the independent study areas outside.

Entering the campus and participation in activities on campus is conditional upon signing a health declaration. Therefore, anyone who does not feel well should refrain from coming to campus.

Despite the positive news recently about vaccinations, this pandemic is still very much with us and it will be a long time before the danger of infection passes. Please continue to abide by all the regulations so we can get through this period safely.

Wishing you continued success this semester and good health.

November 5, 2020 - Dear Students, we kindly request that you do not come to campus until further notice

Dear Students,

We would like to make clear that with the exception of a very few cases, in which the relevant departments will notify students, at this point and until further notice, all teaching at the University will be online. We kindly request that you do not come to campus.

October 22, 2020 - Operational Services under the “Purple Label” Regulations

Dear Faculty Members,

Work Instructions in emergency framework in compliance with the “Purple Label" regulations – Easing of restrictions after the second lockdown.
In light of the improvement in coronavirus infection rates, the government has provided instructions dealing with work in places that do not have reception hours for the public which came into operation on 18.10.2020, under existing restrictions and in compliance with the “Purple Label" regulations.

This document aims to define the necessary activities and rules and regulations regarding work at the University, in compliance with the “Purple Label" regulations.

Please note that by not complying with the “Purple Label" regulations, the University may not be recognized as a place to carry out activities and as a result the University could be closed by the authorities.

You should remember that regulations and restrictions imposed on different areas (following the traffic light plan) could change and the University could move from one “color" to another “color".

Main points of the instructions:

Naftali Preisler acts as the University's Corona Supervisor and can be contacted by mail: naftalip@bgu.ac.il
If you have to isolate yourself, have been in contact with a verified Corona patient, are afraid that you have been infected or may become infected, you should report this as soon as possible by using the online form.
Every person entering any of BGU's campuses is obligated to wear a mask, check his temperature and complete a daily health declaration using the online form.
A cloth or surgical mask must be used in all public spaces and during every contact with another person, including in personal offices shared with one or more persons.
Social distancing – staff, students and all those on campus are requested to keep social distancing requirements – 2 meters apart from one another.
You should wash your hands - or use the disinfecting solutions which are situated around campus – at least once every two hours. Please take regular breaks to wash your hands.
Meetings – please make efforts to reduce the number of meetings, in the case that it is not possible to hold a digital meeting. In any case, no more than 10 people should participate in a meeting, while wearing masks and observing social distancing requirements – 2 meters apart from one another.
Shared meals and coffee breaks are forbidden. Meals should be taken in a fixed room alone. Food or drinks should not be consumed in shared or public spaces, or with others. Please do not have a smoking break with others and do not gather in groups anywhere in the University.
Each person should work with his own personal equipment, especially keyboards, computer mice and suchlike.
While using an elevator, it is recommended that no more than a single person use the elevator, but there should be no more than the maximum number of people as reflected in the signpost on entry to the elevator, under any circumstances. The two should stand diagonally opposite one another and of course should wear masks.
Reception hours – there are no reception hours.
All spaces should be well aired.
Any services not falling under the category of operational, janitorial, online teaching and research activities, must have prior approval from Naftali Preisler, the University's Corona Supervisor, who can be contacted by mail: naftalip@bgu.ac.il
Any activities pre-approved by the University's Corona Supervisor should be reported by mail to sima@bgu.ac.il for tracking purposes.

Dining services:
The “Kapiot" dairy café in the Zlotowski Student Center (#70) and the coffee trolley in
the Sam Gorovoy Building for Natural Sciences (#30) are operational.

From Sunday 25.10.20, the “Kapiot" Meat Cafeteria in the Zlotowski Student Center (#70) will be open for take-away ONLY.

Wishing you Good Health and a Fruitful Academic Year.

September 29, 2020 - Update from the Rector regarding the Upcoming Academic Year opening

Dear Students,

The academic year will open on Sunday October 18, 2020.

Out of a sense of responsibility for the health of everyone coming to campus and following the government's decision to impose another lockdown due to the alarming increase in the number of people infected with the Coronavirus, we have decided to open the academic year online only.

As the infection rate and government decisions allow, we will return to the hybrid framework (integrated teaching) we recently informed you about. When allowed - which we hope will be during the coming semester - we will announce a return to the hybrid learning structure and we will look forward to welcoming you on campus to attend your classes, whether in physical presence or online.

We hope that a limited number of courses (mainly laboratories, workshops, and clinical training) will take place physically from the beginning of the academic year. If this is possible, students in these courses will be notified towards the beginning of the academic year.

Once the lockdown is lifted, and subject to the guidelines, the campuses will open, and it will be possible to access the prepared study spaces and libraries.

University research will continue subject to guidelines.

The dormitories will operate as usual - we ask the dormitory residents to wear masks in public spaces, to maintain physical distance, and not to conduct social activities that do not meet the guidelines and that have not received prior approval.

Wishing you a happy Succot and the start of a successful academic year.

Best regards,
Prof. Chaim Hames, Rector

September 26, 2020 - Students are forbidden from coming to campus

In accordance with guidelines issued by the Council for Higher Education, students are forbidden from coming to campus (except for those operating laboratories) and as such no examinations will take place on campus. Students who were due to take exams on campus will be examined on another date.

September 24, 2020 - An update to students from the Academic secretary

Dear Students,

The beginning of the new school year is close and the Coronavirus is still with us, with all of its ramifications.
The State of Israel is going into lockdown which will carry on at least until after Succot.
In the meantime, we are doing everything possible to prepare for the opening of the new school year:

Registering for courses will continue.
Please contact departments by e-mail only as there is no office hours in the various University departments and units.
Research activities which require a physical presence on campus will be permitted in accordance with the guidelines we receive from the Council for Higher Education.
There will be no frontal activities, such as tests, exams, disciplinary committees and suchlike. Online exams will take place as scheduled.

The new academic year will open on Sunday 18.10.2020

May you be inscribed in the Book of Life.
Wishing good health for your families and yourselves.

Mira Golomb,
Academic secretary

September 24, 2020 - Work during lockdown (25/9-11/10)

Dear Staff Members,

The official guidelines regarding what will be permitted during the lockdown have not yet been announced, but are expected tomorrow (Friday 24.09.20).
The University administration will send updates regarding work at the University during the lockdown as they are announced.
At this point, you should ready yourself for working from home for the 3 days immediately following Yom Kippur, as much as is possible and with the permission and instructions from your direct supervisor.
Someone who cannot work from home (someone whose work is only possible on campus or someone who doesn’t have suitable conditions for working at home or whose supervisor does not permit him to work at home) will take vacation days, half on himself and half on the University.
Those working from home for some of the hours will report the number of hours worked and the remaining hours will be subtracted from his vacation days, half on himself and half on the University.
During the intermediate days of Succot, the University will be in recess as planned.

In addition, we have not yet received clear instructions regarding work connected to research activities and work preparing for the new school year, both of which necessitate presence on campus.
After receiving clear guidelines, we will send an update.

May you be inscribed in the Book of Life and wishing good health for yourselves and your families.

Shimon Ishay
Director, Human Resources

July 23, 2020 - Ben-Gurion University Announces Hybrid Teaching Plan for Upcoming School Year

Ben-Gurion University of the Negev will adopt a hybrid teaching model, which will combine teaching in classrooms with online classes for the upcoming 2020-2021 school year, the University's administration announced Wednesday night in a letter to students. The letter outlined the plan for resuming classes and campus life in the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic on October 18, 2020.

All activities on campus will be held in accordance with the Ministry of Health guidelines at the time, which will determine how many students can study together in a single classroom.

On the assumption that up to 20 students will be allowed in a classroom at a time, there will be three options:

» Classes with up to 20 students enrolled will be held on campus as usual in classrooms that will allow for physical distancing.

» For classes with more than 20 students, an app will be developed to allow up to 20 students who wish to register to attend that week's class on campus to do so. The rest of the class will attend class online simultaneously. To that end, web cameras will be installed in the classrooms.

» If the necessity arises, all classes will be held online in a format similar to this past semester.

Since teaching online is not the same as teaching in person, additional training and forums will be made available to the faculty.

The University is working to create spaces for individual online learning on campus for students who do not have reliable internet access at home.

Research will continue full time on campus in the laboratories, in accordance with Health Ministry guidelines.

The University will also implement, in addition to the mandatory health declaration, a system of voluntary COVID-19 testing based on the University's innovations. The purpose of which would be to detect any spikes in cases on campus or in the dormitories and be able to act swiftly in response. In addition, a tailor-made curriculum will be created for each student in a high-risk group who cannot return to campus.

Regarding campus life in accordance with Health Ministry guidelines:

» The Administration and the Student Union are working on a plan for social activities to be held on campus.

» Libraries and cafeterias will also be open.

» Visitors will not be allowed on campus unless the corona coordinator gives permission.

The complete letter to the students

FAQ - Students

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What should research students who have to look after children at home do?

You should contact your research supervisor to coordinate efficient continuation of your research. If needed, you can contact the department head or dean of the faculty.

Should I cancel my registration for lab courses?

Don't cancel in the meantime. The Vice-Rector is checking out alternative possibilities with the faculties. If need be, they will be cancelled in the future. If that will the case, the students will be refunded.

Cancellation of activity courses: registering for an alternative course will result in a deviation in the number of points. What will this result in or will there be alternative courses with half a point?

We are trying to find alternatives to these courses, when we have answers we will publish them. For those with an excess in tuition fees, a student who is taking his final semester and because of the cancellation of the activity courses will find himself with too many points, will request a refund and we will take care of the request.

Why does the Faculty of Engineering not open the general course “Environmental, Sustainability and Nature Prevention Issues” for students?

The course does not meet the requirements of the Faculty of Engineering.

Don’t instructions for attending labs go against the Ministry of Health directives which encourage citizens to take care and abstain from going out and from taking part in gatherings?

For labs with a few students – the Ministry of Health directives allow personal training of up to 5 participants. We act according to directives and with the intent to allow students to complete their studies on time.

Is it possible to increase the number of participants in the course “Musical Experience” for those who had to pass up on those general courses which were cancelled?

We are currently checking this out.

Will those students who paid for a theater or Fringe subscription receive a refund?

The subscription fees have not yet been paid.

Ongoing updates regarding the coronavirus

Messages from BGU management

March 9, 2022 - Return to working full-time from campus

February 7, 2022 - special frontal exams

February 2, 2022 - Cancellation of Green Pass Presentation

January 23, 2022 - Clarification of Instructions

January 13, 2022 - Rapid Corona Tests at the Mexico Bridge Entrance (16-20/1/22)

January 5, 2022 - Moving to online classes

December 23, 2021 - Changes in the academic calendar

October 6, 2021 - Updates from Hr to Administrative and Technical Staff​​

October 5, 2021 - Updates from the rector, ahead of the new academic year

October 3, 2021 - Updated campus Corona regulations

August 17, 2021 - Update: Conduct on Campus during the Coronavirus

August 12, 2021 - Update: Conduct on Campus during the Coronavirus

August 8, 2021 - Updated Campus Regulations

August 2, 2021 - Corona Instructions updates - The Return of the Green Pass

April 20, 2021 - Campuses and buildings entrance guidelines

March 18, 2021 - Update for Administrative and Technical Staff Members – Returning to Campus after the Passover Vacation

March 14, 2021 - Instructions regarding returning to the university campuses from April 4th

March 7, 2021 - BGU will continue remote learning until Passover

February 9, 2021 - From tomorrow, a health declaration will no longer be required for faculty and staff only

January 7, 2021 - Strict lockdown - instructions for administrative and technical staff

Dec 27, 2020 - Third lockdown - instructions for administrative and technical staff

Dec 12, 2020 - Clarification of Corona Instructions

Nov 19, 2020 - Teaching labs, workshops and practical training in person will be conducted on campus, beginning November 22, 2020.

November 5, 2020 - Dear Students, we kindly request that you do not come to campus until further notice

October 22, 2020 - Operational Services under the “Purple Label” Regulations

September 29, 2020 - Update from the Rector regarding the Upcoming Academic Year opening

September 26, 2020 - Students are forbidden from coming to campus

September 24, 2020 - An update to students from the Academic secretary ​

September 24, 2020 - Work during lockdown (25/9-11/10)

July 23, 2020 - Ben-Gurion University Announces Hybrid Teaching Plan for Upcoming School Year

FAQ - Students

What should research students who have to look after children at home do?

Should I cancel my registration for lab courses?

Cancellation of activity courses: registering for an alternative course will result in a deviation in the number of points. What will this result in or will there be alternative courses with half a point?

Why does the Faculty of Engineering not open the general course “Environmental, Sustainability and Nature Prevention Issues” for students?

Don’t instructions for attending labs go against the Ministry of Health directives which encourage citizens to take care and abstain from going out and from taking part in gatherings?

Is it possible to increase the number of participants in the course “Musical Experience” for those who had to pass up on those general courses which were cancelled?

Will those students who paid for a theater or Fringe subscription receive a refund?

Links

Contact Us

October 6, 2021 - Updates from Hr to Administrative and Technical Staff

September 24, 2020 - An update to students from the Academic secretary