The Argentine University against COVID-19: Old and New Discussions in an Unforeseen Reality

Abstract

Since the beginning of the year, Argentina, like other countries in the Americas, has been witnessing the relentless spread of the COVID-19 virus throughout Asia and Europe. The first confirmed case of coronavirus in the country occurred on March 3, and the first death, ten days later. On March 20, the government issued a decree ordering ?preventive and compulsory social isolation? for the entire population, suspending all nonessential activities as well as all domestic and international travel and transportation, and closing the country?s borders. Universities have become leading players in the fight against COVID-19, acting within the framework of their social mission in multiple ways. For instance, they recruit volunteers to assist passengers arriving from international flights who must comply with a mandatory quarantine in hotels. These volunteers also help pack food that students usually consume in university dining halls for free or at low prices, and they give supportto elderly living alone. Many institutions are contributing to the production of items in short supply, such as alcohol-based hand sanitizer and masks, and, in some cases, they participate in the production of respirators and hospital conditioning. University hospitals also carry out tests to diagnose the disease. Most universities are working against the clock to ensure that their virtual platforms are set up for the courses scheduled for the first semester of the year, supporting teachers and evaluating options so that no student is left out because of limited means or technological capabilities. Several already have online classes under way or have even organized online dissertation defenses.