Davao university suspends graduation rites to prevent spread of COVID-19

DAVAO CITY –– To prevent the possible spread of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) decided to postpone its graduation ceremonies originally scheduled in April this year.

In a memo issued on Tuesday, AdDU president Fr. Joel Tabora said the decision to postpone all graduation and recognition rites was made after consultation with the university’s key stakeholders.

“As a precautionary measure against the spread of COVID-19, and after careful consideration and consultation with key stakeholders, the university has decided to postpone all graduation, recognition, and
moving-up ceremonies,” Father Tabora said.

He said the decision followed the local government’s directive encouraging schools to postpone graduation activities until the public health emergency shall have been lifted.

Mayor Sara Duterte issued a directive on Sunday, urging learning institutions to accelerate the academic calendar this year.

“Schools are encouraged to accelerate their school calendar and postpone graduation activities to June 2020. However, we shall abide by the official advisory of the Department of Education and Commission on Higher Education,” Duterte said.

Father Tabora said the university understood the disappointment of students and families but public safety had to take top priority.

“Each unit, from Grade School to the College of Law, will announce its new schedules of commencement exercises after the public health emergency is over. The university looks forward to celebrating its students’ achievements soon,” Father Tabora said.

Tabora appealed for “understanding and cooperation” as he enjoined everyone to keep safe and healthy to contain the spread of the infection./lzb