THE Education Secretary has admitted he has "concerns" about university freshers’ weeks potential to spread coronavirus.
John Swinney revealed extensive discussions have taken place regarding the return of universities and that freshers will be different this year.
He added that further guidance for Covid-19 safety in higher education is due to be published tomorrow.
READ MORE: Swinney: Don't send pupils without masks home
He said: "I do have concerns about freshers' week, and there have been extensive discussions between government, the universities, colleges, student unions and with the NUS (National Union of Students) about the measures we've got to put in place to try to ensure that freshers' week is undertaken in a different fashion to what most students would have experienced over time.
"We have to be conscious of the risks that come from large-scale socialisation."
Swinney confirmed universities would be delivering a “blended learning” programme to reduce the number of students on campus.
"I understand how exciting and thrilling the prospect of coming to university is for students and freshers' week is very much part of the character of that experience,” he said.
"But as we have laboured throughout this pandemic, this year is different and it has to be pursued in a safe fashion where we follow guidance and take steps to make sure that everyone is keeping safe."
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