BALTIMORE — Morgan State University is suspending all Study Abroad and international student travel programs as a response to the growing concerns of the coronavirus.
The university made the decision with plans to reduce MSU students’ risk of infection. They also shared the plan with administration during an emergency meeting to review Morgan’s Pandemic Disease Preparation Plan in advance of any coronavirus disease incident on campus.
“The safety of our students is the most important thing, above all else. At present, the risk of contracting COVID-19 during international travel is not fully known, so we have taken the most prudent action possible,” said President Wilson.
This was second meeting President Wilson called within a week regarding the global threat of the coronavirus. During the first meeting, a moratorium on all university-sponsored student travel to China, Italy, Japan, South Korea and Iran was announced.
We understand that this decision will be disappointing, especially given the university’s continuous support of global scholarship and discovery, but it was one that had to be made in light of the circumstances,” said President Wilson.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released an Interim Guidance for Administrators of US Institutions of Higher Education (IHE) to Plan, Prepare, and Respond to Coronavirus Disease 2019. Morgan’s Pandemic Disease Preparation Plan, which includes:
Contingency for Faculty
•Implementation of remote instruction
•Usage of existing online software and technology
•Teleconferencing engagement
•Access to online databases and periodicals
Contingency for Students
•Revision of class and examination schedules
•Activation of remote learning
•Investment in residence hall care and preparation
•Closure of campus facilities and cancellation of events (sporting or other) and other large gatherings
•Provisions for meals as well as medications and other care
•Enacting of quarantine protocols and social distancing measures
Contingency for Staff
•Liberal leave or special administrative leave protocols
•Teleworking, work-from-home protocols
•Flexible or staggered work hours
According to the university, he programs will remain suspended for the spring and the summer semesters.
The university is also staying informed about the evolving situation through regular visits to the CDC’s website.
