Nottingham Trent University has announced that vaccinations will be encouraged but not compulsory for students and staff attending in September.
People returning on campus at the end of next month are encouraged to get their jab at one of Nottingham’s walk-in vaccination centres, such as Forest Recreation Ground.
The University also urges anyone coming on campus to get a lateral flow test twice a week.
Students reacting to the news have expressed mixed feelings on whether vaccinations should be compulsory for students to attend the University.
Mike Helkenberg, 20, a third-year Politics and International Relations student, said: “I think it should be [compulsory]. It ensures that if there’s a mini outbreak it’s less devastating and lethal.”
However, stduents Iwan Hughes and Jack Proverbs had different opinions.
Iwan Hughes, 20, a third-year English student, said: “I do not believe they should be compulsory.
“We live in a free society where people’s access to personal choice and freedoms is a crucial element in maintaining democracy.
“It could be argued we may slip towards a more complex and worrying governing form if it were to be made compulsory.”
Jack Proverbs, 20, a third-year Journalism student, added: “I don’t think they should be compulsory for students.
“It’s a personal choice and you can’t force people to get vaccinated.
“There’s also the issue with those who have just turned 18 and won’t have had both jabs in time for starting university so it would exclude a whole group of people.
“I’ve had both my jabs and think everyone should get them for their own safety and others.
“However, I think it would be wrong to not allow people to attend university or lectures if they don’t have the jabs”
A statement made by NTU on their website reads: “We’re encouraging all our students to get their COVID-19 vaccine as soon as they are eligible.
“There’s no need to book – you can simply turn up at any of the main vaccination sites without an appointment to receive your jab.
“Alternatively, you can book your vaccination at a specific time and location on the NHS website.
“Although appointments can be changed please consider where you will be living for the date of your second vaccination.”
The University has also said that, in line with government guidelines, wearing a facemask will be left to personal choice but there is an expectation that facemasks should be worn in crowded indoor spaces, such as public transport.
NTU is yet to confirm the level of in-person teaching that will be offered once the new term starts.
NTU’s website will be regularly updated with the latest news and government advice regarding coronavirus.
Lead image: Platform Magazine