The Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) has issued a red weather warning for Friday due to the extreme heat expected across the Netherlands. Under a red warning, the KNMI advises people to go outdoors only when strictly necessary.
Examinations Will Go Ahead
The decision to proceed with examinations on campus has been made following careful consideration. As Friday marks the final day before the summer break, with many students and staff concluding the academic year and international students preparing to return home, postponing examinations is not considered a viable option.
At the same time, VU Amsterdam recognises that students must make their own judgement about whether travelling to campus is appropriate in their individual circumstances. Students who are unable to sit their examination on campus due to personal circumstances are asked to contact their academic adviser to discuss a suitable alternative arrangement.
Additional Measures
Although temperatures inside VU buildings are significantly lower than those outdoors, they may still be higher than usual. For this reason, additional measures are being taken to ensure the indoor environment remains as comfortable as possible. Existing cooling systems will operate at maximum capacity, and supplementary cooling facilities will be deployed where necessary. Additional drinking water will also be made available.
Students are advised to take the weather conditions into account and to allow extra travel time, as public transport services may operate less frequently than normal due to the extreme heat.
Doctoral Defences and Academic Events
Doctoral defences, inaugural lectures and other academic events will proceed as scheduled unless organisers communicate otherwise.
Staff whose work requires them to be present on campus and who are unable to travel due to the extreme heat or personal circumstances are asked to discuss this with their line manager.