November University graduations postponed over Coronavirus fears

Image courtesy of: Marianne Martin

This year’s Graduations at the University of Kent have been postponed for a second time.

Last year’s graduates, who already had their ceremonies pushed back from July, have been told by the University in a mass email that they will not be able to have a graduation event in November.

In the email, Vice Chancellor Professor Karen Cox said: “I know how disappointing this news will be for the friends and family, but I hope you understand why we have had to make this decision.

“You will still be invited to celebrate your hard work and achievements at a celebration at a later date.”

She added: “We cannot provide the exact date for this event, but we will share more information with you in due course.”

The announcement comes a day after the University announced two new confirmed cases on the Canterbury campus – the first known positive Coronavirus infections at the University.

Other Universities have forgone graduation ceremonies completely, with many opting to have online events in their place or denying students the possibility of an event in their entirety.

Caitlin Casey, a recent graduate, said that this is not a surprising outcome.

“Just the other day myself and other graduates were saying we thought it will be cancelled.

“I do appreciate that Kent has been far more communicative than other Universities.

“They’ve been sure we’ll get a graduation from day one which is better than those who have had theirs completely cancelled.”