São Paulo Universities May Suspend Classes if Water Is Rationed

02/04/2015 - 08h32

The universities in São Paulo are considering suspending classes in the event of water rationing in the state.

Research in the universities is also likely to be affected.

The information was revealed during a press conference with representatives from the University of São Paulo (USP), the Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), the Federal Institute of São Paulo (IFSP), the University of Campinas (UNICAMP), the State University of São Paulo (UNESP), the Federal University of the ABC Region and the Federal University of São Carlos.

Last week, water provider Sabesp admitted for the first time that rationing might be necessary, suggesting that Greater São Paulo could see its water cut off for five days a week.

This is the worst water crisis in the history of the region.

According to the UNIFESP rector, Soraya Smaili, research will definitely be affected by water rationing, given that some studies require water.

In the case of classes, the problem would be the cleanliness of the buildings.

The universities also announced the creation of a study group, in order to conduct research and propose short, medium and long-term solutions to the crisis.

Folha tried to contact the state minister for water resources and Sabesp, but no-one was available for comment.

Translated by TOM GATEHOUSE

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