When the reality of the situation dawned on us in the beginning of March we had to take swift actions. I'm very proud of what we have achieved these past weeks.
We had to think through how we will give all our students as good education as possible now that our facilities are closed. In just a few weeks we have transferred our teaching to digital channels. We are planning the exams (read my blog post about exams, written in Norwegian), which must be carried out using methods completely different from what we are used to..
A few hectic days were spent figuring out how to continue research now that we have to keep as many people as possible away from campus, both on Blindern and Kjeller. Many of you have made difficult choices, changed plans and postponed important research. I've seen great creativity and huge effort in order to keep the research going. The situation will not be changed until after Easter (read Rector Svein Stølen's interview about this in Uniforum, only in Norwegian), but we are working hard to find solutions for all researchers affected by the situation.
In just a short period of time we had to think through how to administrate and run the Faculty with as few people as possible in our facilities, both in the offices and laboratories. We owe a big thanks to the people who keep the wheels running from home. They make sure researchers get help with their applications and other tasks, that our academic staff get help developing digital education, and help to our students, manage our budgets, keep our IT systems running, keeping the facilities that are still in use tidy and clean, the the list goes on. Thanks to all the people who keep the Faculty running under working conditions that are completely different from what we are used to.
We also had to think about how to cooperate with our partners, both in academia, business sector, healthcare and other parts of the public sector. There are many who are facing greater challenges than us, and who need our help. This makes it exceptionally gratifying to witness the amount of generosity and volunteer work from our colleagues, greatly benefiting people outside the Faculty, whether they are from UiO or other public institutions and businesses.
We have been through a month where we had to turn around quickly and work out new ways to do our jobs. I think we have done an excellent job. I want to thank everyone for the great effort made in the weeks we have behind us. Now we deserve some time to rest and reflect on our experiences.
HAPPY EASTER!