As a current finalist at Durham University, I am obviously incredibly disappointed with the decision to cancel summer congregation although I understand why this has to happen. Whilst it is clear that congregation will not be possible in June/July, I ask that the university will consider moving the ceremony for undergraduates to January 2021. This is usually a time for postgraduates to have their ceremony however it isn’t uncommon for those undergraduates who missed graduation in July for whatever reason to take part then instead as well.

Completely stripping students away from an event that most have been working towards for three years or more is something that is worth fighting against. Please consider this as an option for all these students.