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Edinburgh University will move teaching online and suspend first and second year exams this semester because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Confirming the decision, a University of Edinburgh spokesperson told Edinburgh Live that that it was was treating the pandemic "extremely seriously".

They said it had taken the decision to "safeguard their community".

Detailing the arrangements, they said: “From 23 March, the vast majority of undergraduate teaching will be carried out remotely.

"Teaching will also be paused next week, with a few exceptions where activity can’t be replaced."

First and second year exams will also be cancelled, and students assessed on the basis of work already submitted as an alternative, the university said.

Those in third and fourth year will be expected to sit their exams online.

It moved to reassure students that they would achieve their qualification on time and said an Edinburgh degree will "still hold the same value".

“The University will remain open, and services such as our libraries, counselling and research and study spaces will continue to operate as usual.

“We will always be flexible and understanding in our response to concerns from our community, and will continue to take the action necessary to provide support and stability through this difficult period." the university spokesperson added.