Operation of Educational Establishments during the Pandemic: Protocols & Procedures (Sixth Release 6.0)

This document outlines the protocols, requirements, and precautionary measures that all educational establishments in the UAE should follow in order to achieve a safe, healthy, and learning-stimulating learning environment when educational establishments are opened during the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic. This Document relies on the general framework adopted by the UAE for the re-opening of educational establishments at the time of the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic.

This Document may be changed or amended without notice, as directed by the authorities concerned or the relevant authorities of the Government or the Emirate, at any time, depending on developments.

English Version
Arabic Version

GUIDELINES FOR MANAGEMENT OF COVID-19

Guidelines for Management of Covid-19 in Educational and Academic Settings

AUD Faculty Documents and Resources

Faculty Guidelines for Online Classes - Summer 2021
General Classroom Guidelines during COVID - Summer 2021
FAQs for Faculty - Summer 2021

For Students

STUDENT GUIDELINES & DOCUMENTS
COVID-19 Pledge
Remote Learning and Examination Guidelines (Students)
Library Guide

ONLINE TEACHING PLATFORM INSTRUCTIONS
At AUD we use Blackboard for Online Learning. Click Here

REGISTRAR OFFICE
The Registrar's Office is closed to in-person visitors due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. You may pick-up documents from the AUD Collection Point next to the parking entrance, opposite the main gate. Please schedule your pickup date HERE.

COVID-19 VACCINE AWARENESS GUIDE
July 2021

PRE-VACCINATION INFORMATION FOR THE COVID-19 VACCINE

The importance of the vaccine
The vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect individuals from serious preventable diseases as it stimulates the body to build resistance to a particular infection and strengthens the immune system by training it to form antibodies.

How do vaccines work?
• Vaccines stimulate the immune system without making the person ill.
• Vaccines work in different ways but they all provide protection against the disease.

For example:
When injecting the vaccine (which contains protein from the virus) the immune system recognizes it as a foreign body and it starts producing antibodies. A person's immune system forms a memory against these foreign bodies. The immune system starts fighting the virus when it enters the body again.

Why should I take the vaccine?
The vaccine is currently the best, safest and most effective method to control the COVID-19 pandemic and stop it from spreading, to protect yourself and others.

Vaccine excluded groups
• Nursing mothers
• Pregnant women
• Children below 16 years
• People with an immunodeficiency disease
• Those who are allergic to any vaccine, food, medicine or substance OR those who carry a self-injectable adrenaline
• Women planning to get pregnant in the near future (3 months from the date of taking the vaccine)

Note:
You must inform your physician of all the medications you are taking and those you are allergic to.

Vaccine Safety and Efficacy
All vaccines are subject to adequate testing and go through several stages (including clinical stages) before they are approved for use.

What is the journey of receiving the vaccine?
• Register via the DHA app or call 800 342
• You will receive a text message with instructions and tips (if you meet the criteria)
• The center will check your vital signs when you arrive
• Make sure you read the consent form
• You will receive the first dose of the vaccine
• You need to wait at the clinic for 20 minutes after receiving the vaccine

You will receive an SMS after you have finished your vaccination.
The SMS will provide details of your vaccination certificate and the appointment date and time for the second dose of the vaccination. (Second dose is scheduled 21 days later)

PRE-VACCINATION CHECKLIST FOR COVID-19 VACCINES

Important information you should tell your doctor before taking the vaccine
• If you have any symptoms such as fever
• If you have a medical history such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, etc.
• If you are allergic to any vaccine, food, medicine or substance OR if you carry a self-injectable adrenaline.
• If you are pregnant or you are planning to get pregnant within the next 3 months
• If you are breastfeeding
• If you suffer from an immunodeficiency disease or have a weak immunity.

Taking the vaccine and the number of doses required
• Vaccination comprises of two doses, taken separately. The gap between the two doses is 21 days.
• The vaccine is given in the muscle of the upper arm.
• For the vaccine to be effective, it is necessary to adhere to the appointment of the second dose as per the stipulated time.
• It takes one week after the second dose of the vaccine to be effective and provide you with the necessary immunity.

Note: Even after taking both the doses for the vaccine, it is important to continue to take all precautionary measures including wearing a facemask.

POST-VACCINE

What to expect after your COVID-19 vaccination?
It is normal to have minor side effects during the first week after receiving the vaccine and these symptoms are common when taking any type of vaccine.

Side effects:
• Fatigue and headaches
• Fever
• Pain, swelling or redness at the injection-site
• Joint pain
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Shivering
• Muscle pain

What do I do if there are side effects?
• Take a Paracetamol when you experience mild and moderate side effects.
• Use a cold compress to relieve pain at the injection site.
• If you have mild and moderate symptoms that persist for longer or severe symptoms, despite the use of Paracetamol, you should adhere to the following:
• Book a telemedicine appointment with the Doctor For Every Citizen initiative:
You can book this appointment through the following methods:
1. By using the DHA app
2. By contacting the DHA’s toll-free number 800 342 (Choose “COVID-19 Vaccine” from the main list and then click on number 3)
• For emergencies, head to the nearest health center or hospital.

GENERAL TIPS AFTER TAKING THE VACCINE
• Be aware of any side effects.
• Comply with the instructions issued by your doctor.
• Make sure you do not skip or delay your appointment for the second dose of the vaccination. This is important for the vaccine to be effective and to provide you with the necessary protection.

Precautionary measures
• The vaccine is one of the most effective ways to fight COVID-19 but it is not the only way.
• Everyone should take precautionary measures to combat COVID-19 even after vaccination, such as physical distancing, keeping your hands clean and wearing a facemask.

FREQUENTLY-ASKED QUESTIONS

When can I take the first dose of the vaccine in case I am COVID-19 positive?
If a patient has an active COVID-19 infection, the patient must wait until the completion of the isolation period to be vaccinated. If the infection was moderate or severe and required hospitalization, the timeframe for vaccination after infection will depend on the decision of the medical team that treated the patient. However, all mild cases or cases without symptoms can take the vaccine after completion of the isolation period.

If someone has taken a vaccination other than the COVID-19 vaccine, is it safe to take the COVID-19 vaccine?
Example: I took an influenza vaccine, is it safe to take the COVID-19 vaccine?
Yes, but you need to wait for more than four weeks after the influenza vaccine to be able to take the COVID-19 vaccine.

I took a different COVID-19 vaccine recently, is it safe to take another COVID-19 vaccine?
NO. It is NOT safe to take a different type of COVID-19 vaccination.

I might not be in Dubai to take my second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Can I reschedule my vaccine for another day?
It is strongly recommended to complete the vaccine course and abide by the scheduled time to ensure that you receive the maximum benefit of the vaccine.

Am I exempt from taking a PCR test for travel purposes or pre-surgical procedures in Dubai if I have taken the COVID-19 vaccine?
No, you are not exempt. For the time being, everyone is required to follow policies and regulations that are related to COVID-19 testing and screening in Dubai.

Can I stop wearing a facemask after taking the COVID-19 vaccine?
No, you still need to keep wearing the facemask and you must follow all precautionary measures unless there is another official instruction or announcement from the health authorities in this regard.

Do people need to keep following COVID-19 precautionary measures after completing the COVID-19 vaccination doses?
Yes, all precautionary measures need to be followed even after taking the COVID-19 vaccine until you receive any instruction or announcement from the health authorities in this regard.

Is it safe for people with chronic diseases to take the vaccine?
Yes, the vaccine is safe, effective and indicated for people with chronic diseases as they are at a higher risk of developing COVID-19 complications. Your family physician will inform you if you have any specific contraindication to take the vaccine.

I am on multiple medications, is it safe to take the COVID-19 vaccine?
Your physician will guide you on the safety of taking the vaccine. Provide your physician with your detailed medical history and list of medications. In addition, please make sure you inform your physician if
you are allergic to any drugs or have any other allergies.

What is the cost of the COVID-19 vaccine?
It is free-of-cost.

• • Employee Consideration click here. July 13, 2021

For any health concerns, please contact AUD Health Center
Call 04-3183 200 or email healthcenter@aud.edu

Health Center

The AUD Health Center has been extremely proactive in addressing the situation and educating our community on the precautionary and preventative measures that should be followed to minimize any contamination risks. This was conducted through a series of online, offline and peer to peer sessions since early January, based on guidelines from regional and international authorities including: The UAE Ministry of Health, Dubai Health Authority, Center for Disease Control and prevention (CDC) , World Health Organization (WHO) , along with the ongoing support of our partners, the American Hospital Dubai.

Several practical measures were additionally implemented from early January to increase hygiene and reduce exposure risk to the virus. These include:

• Launch of the online learning platforms for students to practice successful social distancing with no effect
• Installing many hand sanitizing stations across the university, including in the dorm rooms and common areas.
• Contacting all students, staff and faculty who have travelled to affected areas
• Cancelling all university trips, events, and student gatherings.
• Sealing off all common areas to avoid grouping.
• Assessment of all cleaning protocols and procedures to ensure they are effective to counter the nature of the virus
• Increase in frequency of cleaning all high touch point areas, including common areas, door knobs, light switches, and other.
• Distribution of leaflet and flyer with information about the virus and how to prevent spread and contamination.
• Internal travel declaration form created for all members of the AUD community (faculty, staff and students) to monitor travels to the most affected areas.

Timeline of the awareness campaign led by the Health Center on COVID-19:

March 17, 2020	A Healthy AUD, Updates Guidelines
March 15, 2020	Updates information, setups, and health facilities
March 5, 2020	Coronavirus, COVID-19 Awareness presentation to AUD Helpers
March 3, 2020	Pandemic response plan shared with President
March 1, 2020	Pre-Travel declaration form created, forwarded with Guidelines to AUD Community March 2, 2020
March 1, 2020	Virus prevention PP. Posters on Workers camp
March 1, 2020	Health and Safety Circular
March 1, 2020	Coronavirus Disease 2019 Information guidelines for Travel created, forwarded March 2, 2020
February 27, 2020	COVID-19 meeting with President, Provost, and Senior management
February 19, 2020	COVID-19 Awareness lecture and Workshop (AHD)
	Health Center Policy & Procedures Pandemic Response Plan, COVID-19, HCP 29
February 9, 2020	A Healthy AUD part 4, Novel Coronavirus Educational Guidelines
February 4, 2020	A Healthy AUD part 3, Measures and Prevention COVID-19, sent
	Health Center Policy & Procedures COVID-19, HCP 28
February 6, 2020	Facts and Measures to Prevent Spread of Respiratory Diseases created and distribute
February 6, 2020	9 Tips to Treat Colds and Flu the 'Natural' Way
January 30, 2020	A Healthy AUD, part 2 sent
January 29, 2020	A Healthy AUD (1st email) sent
January 29, 2020	Coronavirus Novel Posters, Leaflets and brochures

Community FAQ

• What is the current status of student learning?
  The university is following the recent measures announced by the Ministry of Education and KHDA, and for the summer I & II sessions the university is delivering classes via the online-learning platforms. The university plans on reopening for the fall 2021 semester.
   
• I travelled during summer and will return to the UAE. What steps I should take?
  Please refer to the memos and emails issued on July 13, 2021 to all students, faculty and staff.
   
• I was planning on participating in a Study Abroad/Exchange Program next year, is that still possible?
  Study Abroad and Exchange applications are being accepted for the Spring 2022 semester.

Visit https://covid19.ncema.gov.ae/en

• What are the symptoms of COVID- 19?
  The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, cough and shortness of breath.
   
• Could I have COVID-19?
  If you have a fever, cough or shortness of breath but have not been around anyone who you know has COVID-19, the likelihood that you have COVID19 is fairly low. If you do not have a high-risk condition (age 60 years or over, are pregnant, or have medical conditions) and your symptoms are mild, you do not need to be evaluated in person and do not need to be tested for COVID-19.
  
  If your symptoms are severe, have cough, fever ( 37.5°C or above), difficulty breathing, you have a high-risk condition, or you feel like you need medical care and are worried that you may have COVID-19, please make your way safely to the closest testing center to you as listed below.

• How can I reduce the risk of catching and spreading COVID 19?
  To reduce your risk of catching or spreading illness, stay home if you feel sick, even if your symptoms are mild (fever below 37.5°C, runny nose, cold or flu symptoms). Do not go to work, school or public places, and avoid public transportation.
   
• What are the facts and measures to protect myself:
  In general, the best way to help prevent spread of COVID-19 is to avoid contact with droplets or secretions of saliva, mucus and tears. Things that can help include the following:
  • Minimize close contact with persons who have symptoms of respiratory illness, such as coughing or sneezing.
  • Contain droplets that result from coughing and sneezing (following Respiratory Hygiene/Cough Etiquette: To cover the face with disposable napkins and discard properly).
  • Wash your hands regularly for 20 seconds. This is especially important after touching surfaces or objects that might be contaminated with respiratory droplets, or after touching persons who are ill with respiratory symptoms. Alcohol hand gels are an adequate substitute when soap and clean water are not readily available.
  • Take everyday preventive measures: Avoid sharing personal items such as eating or drinking utensils, toothbrushes, and towels. You should especially avoid sharing these items with sick persons.
  • Avoid animals (alive or dead) animal markets, and products that come from animals (such as uncooked meat.
  • Maintain a clean working/ living environment: Be mindful by trying to clean your area as often as possible to lessen the contaminants and avoid the spread of infection. Wipe up visible material with paper towels and dispose of used towels in a plastic garbage bag o Disinfect using any standard household disinfectant.
     
• If you are sick: Wear a facemask and gloves when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) or pets and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office.
   
• Call the DHA Helpline on 800342
   
• If you suspect you have COVID 19, follow the steps as listed in the below chart. The AUD Health Center does not provide COVID 19 testing.
   
• If you are unwell and test positive for COVID 19, please be sure to inform the AUD Health Center.
   
• When and where to take a coronavirus test in the UAE
  The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has issued specific instructions about when to seek medical help and opt for an appointment at any of the public or private hospitals and Primary Health Centers. An individual can now book a Covid-19 test at any health center or hospital provided he or she meets certain basic criteria for the test.
   
• Who should go?
   if and individual suffers from symptoms like fever, cough, cold, shortness of breath or experience difficulty in breathing, have a travel history to any of the countries of concern, listed by the Word Health Organization (WHO) or have been in contact with a suspected or confirmed Covid 19 patient, he or she can first practice isolation at home and schedule an appointment by calling the DHA helpline 800342.
   
• Documents required:
  Passport
  Emirates ID
  
  For any questions related to COVID-19, please check the link below from Dubai Health Authority DHA; https://www.dha.gov.ae/Covid19/Pages/home.aspx
   

In response to the recent surge of interest in students wishing to transfer to AUD from universities abroad, as well as inquires for new starts for the Fall 2021 semester, the AUD Admissions team has compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to better acquaint you with our US & UAE accredited institution and the enrollment processes.

1. I want to transfer from a university abroad, what do I need to do?
You will require the following documents:
• Official transcripts reflecting courses for which transfer credit is sought; attested by the Ministry of Education of the country in which the university is in operation. Attestation is not required from American-accredited universities.
• Completed Confirmation of University Records Form.
• Course syllabi for courses completed with a grade of “C” or above.
• COVID-19 Pledge

Please note that transferring credits is subject to evaluation and can only be evaluated after the submission of your application. All students must complete a minimum of 50% of their degree program in residency at AUD in order to qualify for an AUD degree.

Transfer students can apply online at https://applyonline.aud.edu where all the required documents can be submitted/uploaded through the application - alternatively, you can email us your documents once you have submitted the application.

Comprehensive information can be found on: HERE. You may also write to admissions@aud.edu or call +971 4 318 3266 if you require additional clarification.

2. I am applying to AUD/ transferring to AUD, do I need to submit my application and required documents in person?
All necessary documents can be uploaded via the application https://applyonline.aud.edu/ or via email once the application is completed.

3. Can I do a campus tour?
In line with Government directives, we are not at present conducting campus tours. However, we invite you to take the AUD Campus Virtual Tour, where you can explore our campus and facilities. Contact admissions@aud.edu

4. I want to learn more about a specific program, who can I speak to?
You can write to admissions@aud.edu and one of our team will contact you as soon as possible.
• For information regarding AUD’s undergraduate programs click here
• For Graduate Programs click here
• For EMBA click here

5. I would like to speak to a faculty member of a school to learn more about the degree in detail, is that an option?
Our recruitment team is happy to facilitate communication with a faculty member from your school or program of interest should you require specific course information. Contact admissions@aud.edu and a member of our recruitment team will help you in answering all of your AUD related questions.

6. Can I connect with an in-school student to discuss student life on campus?
Our School Government Association, all exemplary Knights and community leaders would be happy in answering your questions. If you wish to speak to one of our SGA leaders, kindly ask your admissions counselor to arrange a call.

7. I'm applying for a scholarship, what is the deadline?
All scholarship offerings, including eligibility criteria can be found HERE

We are currently accepting scholarship applications for Fall 2021 for students with a minimum average of 90% equivalent or above. We accept high school records from grade 10, 11, along with the available grades for grade 12. Your folder can be finalized once final exam results are out. Scholarship application deadline is July 24^th, 2021

8. Does AUD help in getting a student visa?
Yes, AUD assists all students in applying for a student visa through our visa office. Additional details are available HERE

9. Does AUD offer dorms for students?
Convenient, comfortable and safe accommodation is available on campus; detailed information can be found HERE

10. If my high school final exams are postponed or cancelled, will that affect my acceptance at AUD?
We are mindful of the current situation, and understand that not all documents will be accessible for submission right away. As the situation gains more clarity, AUD will be accepting students based on criteria set forth by the Ministry of Education in the UAE. To discuss your particular situation, you can schedule a video call or speak to one of our admissions team members for guidance on next steps at admissions@aud.edu.

11. Can I pay online?
Yes, the Finance Office will send you an individual secure link once your enrollment is complete. The Finance Office can be contacted at finance@aud.edu.

12. Question added: What are your tuition fees?
Please visit: https://www.aud.edu/university-overview/administrative-offices/office-of-finance/

13. What will be the mode of teaching in the fall?
AUD will be reopening and welcoming students back for the Fall 2021 semester.