Waterloo's response: Sudan

On behalf of the University of Waterloo, I express concern regarding the ongoing conflict in Sudan and sympathy for those impacted by events there.

Fighting between armed forces is having devastating consequences for civilians in Sudan. Loss of life, injuries, destruction of property, displacement, and curtailment of access to critical services are only some of the tragedies and hardships affecting hundreds of thousands of people.

I also recognize that some members of our campus community, as well as some in the Waterloo Region, have loved ones, friends, colleagues, and associates who are directly affected by the violence and destruction. Thus, the impacts of this conflict are echoing around the world.

Our thoughts are with the many who have been, and who continue to be, affected. We stand in solidarity with all of you.

Locally, we offer resources to support those in the University of Waterloo community who need support. Please see the list below. And globally, we remain steadfast in our commitment to support the global higher education community, and, indeed, to support all those who want to advance learning and knowledge so as to help humanity thrive.

In response to the conflict IRCC announced new immigration measures to support Sudanese temporary residents who are currently in Canada and may be unable to return home due to the rapidly deteriorating situation in their country. The current temporary measures came into effect on April 30, 2023, and will expire on October 27, 2023. For more information visit the Student Success Office website.

We will continue to monitor the situation in Sudan and to update the campus community accordingly. I urge everyone to offer support to anyone who is struggling emotionally with the violence.