Prague, Czech Republic – In response to the tragic mass shooting at the Faculty of Arts last month which resulted in the loss of 14 lives, Charles University in Prague has taken steps to enhance security measures across its buildings. The university is now preparing a customized list of security measures for the individual faculties, as announced by the university’s rector, Milena Králíčková.
At a recent crisis meeting, university officials discussed the coordination of activities for the ‘Month for the Faculty’ event, aimed at restoring academic life to the Faculty of Arts building on Jan Palach Square. The meeting also addressed plans for the upcoming summer semester at the Faculty of Arts, with classes expected to be held in alternative premises or online.
Furthermore, the university is exploring the implementation of security measures at the individual faculties, including the possible introduction of card access. The goal is to ensure the safety of students and staff in the wake of the tragic event.
Additionally, the university’s crisis staff is planning a commemorative procession called the Transmission of Light, where students will carry the light from the rector’s office to the Faculty of Arts building. The procession is intended to symbolically embrace the building, which holds great significance to the university community.
As preparations continue, the university is also organizing a collection of candles to honor the memorial sites, with the hope of holding the commemoration on January 4th.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Charles University is taking proactive steps to enhance security and support the academic community as it prepares to resume normal activities. The university is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for its students and staff as they embark on the upcoming semester.