To All Shimane University Students��

Act accordingly and carefully to protect yourself, your family members, friends and the society in order to overcome these challenges

����������������������                                                          ����������������April 10, 2020
                                                                               �� 

The new 2020 academic year has begun, welcoming a new batch of 1,254 undergraduate and 244 graduate students. Unfortunately, Shimane University is in the position that it has had to make many changes and delays to classes and activities at the university in response to the worldwide COVID-19 outbreak. I deeply apologize for any inconvenience this has caused all of you.

The start of classes at Matsue campus was initially delayed until April 14, as notified on the university’s website and through other means. However, due to the rapid spread of infection, we seriously contemplated more careful countermeasures and have come to the conclusion postpone the start of classes until May 7, a further delay of three weeks. We have also determined that for the time being all classes as a rule are to be moved to online instruction. I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused by this last-minute change made just days before the previous initial start date of classes. Shimane University is placing the highest priority on the health and safety of all the students. As such, we greatly appreciate your kind understanding that we have had to come to this decision. We understand that many of you may be anxious about starting your study and research in these difficult times. If you are anxious and need to talk with someone, please feel free to talk to the Health Service Center and your supervisors at Shimane University. Though we are in an emergency situation and the countermeasures may not be ideal, Shimane University will make its best efforts to assist with your studies.

The situation has become more serious over the last week. A state of emergency was declared on April 7, targeting metropolitan areas hit hard by the virus, and the first COVID-19 case was confirmed in Shimane Prefecture. Shimane University will make every possible effort to prevent the spread, but I again request you to act accordingly and carefully to protect yourself, your family members, friends and the society.

Students, faculty and staff members alike, let us stick together so that we can overcome these challenges. I greatly appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

HATTORI Yasunao
President
Shimane University