Blog entries

A much-needed Easter break

Like so many other parts of Denmark, Aarhus University has been physically shut down since 13 March. And since I last wrote this blog, the government has decided to extend the period we all have to work from home - so far up to and including 13 April. Time will tell whether we can get back to work on campus after Easter.

Once again, I'd like to send a huge thank you for your efforts at this time. As I wrote in my last blog, I am impressed with how we in the administration and the technical functions have helped the university to continue activities as far as at all possible. And you should know that I hear a lot of people from all over the organisation praising the great efforts by administrative and technical staff. 

Your job has not been made easier by having to work at a distance. Only being in contact with each other electronically is clearly a major upheaval. Many are probably feeling the effects of a steep digital learning curve, and even though it is positive that circumstances are now forcing us to upgrade our digital skills and competencies, it is also an extra challenge.

Thank you for accepting the challenge so gracefully. As a small help, we have put together some advice on IT tools for working at home work on the AU corona website.

No matter how much we can do online, I can imagine that most are beginning to tire of the situation. We miss social interaction with our colleagues, the informal chats over the coffee machine and normal life at work.

Those of you with young children have an extra challenge to maintain a balance. I encourage you to talk to your immediate supervisor about how any problems you might be facing can be solved.

Now, fortunately, Easter is on our doorstep, and I hope that the Easter holiday will give many of you a good long break in the middle of this extraordinary time.

Naturally, we are monitoring statements from the authorities carefully and beginning to prepare for how the university can slowly return to normal. But right now, how we will be able to see each other after Easter is uncertain.  However, I can assure you that you will hear about it just as soon as we know more.

Until then, I would like to wish you all a very happy and well-deserved Easter.