The University endorses the School Climate Strike
The Senior Leadership Team has agreed that the University will endorse the School Climate Strike on 27 September and encourage staff and students to take part.
This is the third School Climate Strike and this time organisers are asking individuals and organisations to join with school students in making their voice heard.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Grant Guilford says climate change is the most significant inter-generational challenge facing humanity. “As a values-based University located in the capital city, with a student body rightly concerned for its future, we have a moral imperative to urge government to take strong climate action.”
Our commitment to sustainability is a manifestation of our values and highlighted as a distinctive research strength in the University’s Strategic Plan, and this University is committed to showing leadership in climate action, he says.
Academic staff are asked to ensure all lectures are recorded on 27 September and to make reasonable accommodation for students who miss classes or tutorials between 11 am–2 pm (or 10:30 am – 2:30 pm for Pipitea and Te Aro campuses). Check with your Associate Dean if you are unsure about what you need to do regarding scheduled tests or other assessments on that day.
Academic staff wanting to attend the event and who have teaching commitments will need to arrange cover. Professional staff will need to check with their manager to ensure services are available during this time. In all cases, staff wishing to attend must first obtain approval from their managers.
A contingent of staff and students will be marching from the University to Civic Square on 27 September.