External events are all activities that are not directly related to BI’s study programmes, courses and research activities. Although the probability of contagion from attending conferences is considered moderate, BI wants to take measures that can prevent contagion as a result of traveling to or attending conferences. Norwegian authorities’ ambition is that as few people as possible are infected in the future, and the cases are spread out in time so that public health services have sufficient capacity to take care of those who can be seriously ill.
"BI believes this precaution is necessary to safeguard the health and safety of our students and staff. In addition, we have a responsibility to contribute in a national effort to reduce the risk of infection. We are continuously following advice from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Norwegian Institute of Public Health (FHI), and are prepared to take necessary measures if needed", says Inge Jan Henjesand, President of BI Norwegian Business School.
In January, BI established a task force to prepare contingency plans for how the corona virus can affect the school's operation and teaching, and to be able to take necessary measures on campus if students and/or staff are infected or quarantined. There are currently no cases where BI students or employees have been infected. All BI campuses are open and the school encourages everyone to continue their day-to-day activities as normal. Should the situation change, BI will inform the students affected directly via email. If there is a need to close the campus for a period of time, BI is prepared to offer alternative teaching. This also applies to examinations.
"Although we cannot predict how the coronavirus will affect society and the educational sector in Norway over time, it is crucial to prepare our students and staff for alternative operational activities and teaching this semester", says Henjesand.
For more information in regard to the coronavirus outbreak please see this page.