COVID-19 | Progressive lifting of containment measures in research and education institutions

Considering the possible lifting, from the beginning of May 2020, of the "State of Emergency" decreed by the Portuguese Government, the Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education (MCTES) has issued a note (see here) with recommendations for scientific and higher education institutions, which will have to develop plans for the progressive lifting of the containment measures currently in place.

The document highlights a number of recommendations, such as complying with the recommendations of the competent health authorities and the technical standards in force; ensuring conditions of social distancing and the use of personal protective equipment by all; the adoption of distance teaching and learning processes and teleworking, promoting, whenever possible, their gradual and effective combination with face-to-face activities.

These indications must be a priority for the return to normal functioning of the structures of the national science and technology system, namely R&D units, laboratories, physical, technological, cultural and performing arts, medical, veterinary and biological infrastructures.

Distance learning, teleworking and videoconferencing meetings, especially those involving people from at-risk groups, should also continue to be promoted. Of particular note here is the set of services provided by FCT, through its National Scientific Computing Unit (FCCN), namely COLIBRI, NAU and EDUCAST, which have been essential supports for ensuring distance teaching and learning and teleworking.

The document also points out that the implementation of these plans is subject to a change in the current State of Emergency.