At the University of Otago, class attendance is down by at least 50 percent today, following a gun-related threat. Otago University Students' Association (OUSA) "absolutely support" the university's decision to remain open.
OUSA CEO Debbie Downs says, “If you close today, what do you do tomorrow?"
“It has to be business as usual with heightened security,” says Downs.
At the University of Victoria, Murphy building has been evacuated while the building is searched following a bomb threat.
According to a police statement, “a note threatening the detonation of a bomb in the Murphy building was discovered”.
OUSA President Paul Hunt has spoken out following the threat on campus and another threat in Wellington.
Hunt says, “Although we may speculate, our priority is always the safety of students.”
“We have confidence in the way the police and university are responding but we are also understanding of the frustration people have.”
A number of students, who chose not to attend university today, have expressed concern for being penalised over missed assignments or lectures.
Hunt says the University of Otago is advising departments "to ensure lecture notes, course notes, and anything related are available on Blackboard, so students who decide not to come are not disadvantaged.”
However, resources may not be available immediately for students.
It is advised students contact their department directly with any issues.
OUSA Student Support is available for students feeling distressed “or just wanting to call their parents”.
Students should keep a close eye on all communications from police and the university.
