Even with the government mandate that asymptomatic testing is no longer available for COVID-19 unless paid for through a private company, the University of Saskatchewan has been, and continues to, provide free test kits to faculty, students, contractors, staff and campus visitors, who are not vaccinated.

The cost of the program and where that money is coming from is still being tabulated.

As of this week, the University indicated 95 per cent of those on campus are fully vaccinated.

Statement from the University of Saskatchewan:

“The University of Saskatchewan transitioned to increased in-person learning and campus activities this fall, which included implementing a vaccination requirement for all students, faculty, staff, contractors, and campus visitors. As part of the transition, USask students, faculty, and staff not vaccinated or partially vaccinated were provided at-home rapid testing kits to complete twice weekly tests in order to access campus. With over 95% of those on campus now fully vaccinated, there is a small number of on-campus individuals currently in the testing program. In order to facilitate testing for this group, USask has provided the testing kits at no charge during the Fall term. The effectiveness and total costs of the testing program is currently being evaluated.”