More than 20 students reportedly tested positive after the event, raising concerns over safety protocols.
A recent orientation at the National University of Singapore (NUS) Business School has come under scrutiny after a 19-year-old freshman reported that an indoor maskless activity may have led to over 20 participants contracting Covid-19. In Singapore, mask-wearing remains mandatory in indoor settings.
The student shared with Shin Min Daily News that approximately 200 participants attended the orientation camp held from June 15 to 17. Attendees were divided into 18 groups, engaging in activities from 8 AM to 10 PM, spending significant time together both outdoors and indoors.
While participants were allowed to go maskless during outdoor activities as per pandemic guidelines, some students neglected to wear masks indoors. Although older students on the organizing committee reminded attendees to mask up, compliance was inconsistent. A photo shared with Shin Min Daily News depicted about 20 students standing closely together on stage without masks, despite some audience members wearing theirs.
The freshman, who chose to keep her mask on throughout the activities to avoid infection, noted that different groups shared equipment and participated in joint activities. She reported that attendees received a WhatsApp alert about one participant testing positive for Covid-19; however, the camp proceeded after measures like venue disinfection were implemented. The affected group members were instructed to take Antigen Rapid Tests (ARTs).
After the camp, the student and 20 of her friends tested positive for Covid-19, forcing some to cancel overseas travel plans. She also mentioned that several attendees exhibited symptoms during the orientation but chose to remain due to the $55 camp fee.
In response to the situation, a university representative confirmed to Shin Min Daily News that multiple orientation participants had tested positive for Covid-19 following the event. NUS has reached out to these individuals to offer assistance, emphasizing that student safety is their top priority. The representative also reiterated that students should refrain from attending orientation activities if they feel unwell and warned that those who fail to adhere to safety protocols may face disciplinary actions.
