The summer semester 2021, like the two previous semesters, will largely take place digitally. After a year of living and studying in the COVID-19 pandemic, the desire for normalcy is great - this also includes face-to-face courses. The Extended Rectorate fully understands this and hopes that this will be possible again without restrictions in the foreseeable future.

But a look at the development of the number of infections makes it clear that presence operations will only be possible in exceptional cases in the coming weeks. The TU Dresden has a duty of care towards its students and employees. The protection of your health is absolutely paramount. As a social actor and largest employer in Dresden, TUD has an obligation to contribute to the infection rate's subsidence in our city and the Free State of Saxony.

"All of our efforts aim to contribute to the containment of the infection process in the community as a whole and to delay the course of studies as little as possible in constant dialogue with those affected - i.e. students and teachers - and to minimize disadvantages for students and teachers as far as possible under the pandemic conditions.", explains the rector of the TU Dresden, Prof. Dr. Ursula M. Staudinger.

The Extended Rectorate is in exchange with students, teachers, and the city and state administrations to be able to react quickly to new circumstances. However, reliable planning for the coming semester cannot rely on face-to-face teaching but must look the circumstances in the eye and offer high-quality teaching in online formats.

Against this background, no face-to-face events will initially take place until Pentecost, i.e. until May 21, 2021. Exceptions are - subject to strict compliance with hygiene regulations and possibly the wearing of protective clothing - those events that require attendance due to the nature of the skill acquisition (internships, laboratory experiments, etc.). The time until Pentecost and the subsequent event-free Pentecost week is used to evaluate the pandemic situation to check a possible return to face-to-face teaching.

The Extended Rectorate is aware of the fact that another semester under pandemic conditions is a great challenge for everyone. The regulations to compensate for disadvantages or difficulties caused by the pandemic for studies and examination procedures continue to apply.

Even in these difficult times, let us treat one another with understanding and respect. It is now important not to endanger the successes achieved in the third wave of the pandemic with understandable impatience. Together. For sure. Digital. We hold out and the virus at a distance. With this in mind, the Extended Rectorate wishes all TUD members a successful start to the new semester and thanks to you for your great commitment.