A CITY university has become the first to cancel summer graduations as a result of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Glasgow Caledonian University announced today that graduation ceremonies would not be going ahead this summer. 

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In an e-mail sent to all students this afternoon, the university said: "It is therefore with a heavy heart that we write to say that we see no prospect of holding the summer graduation ceremonies in 2021."

University bosses cited current uncertainty surrounding the pandemic and social distancing requirements as reasons for not going ahead. 

It is understood the ceremonies also involved those who were supposed to graduate last summer.

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The university has been approached for comment, however Principlal and Vice Chancellor Pamela Gillies said in the email sent to students today: "Current uncertainty around the pandemic and social distancing restrictions makes planning graduation ceremonies impossible at this time. 

"We also see little point in starting a disappointing cycle of proposing and cancelling alternative graduation dates.

"Please be assured that the lack of a graduation ceremony itself in no way stops you from graduating and receiving your degree parchment.

"Everyone eligible to graduate over the summer will do so in absentia and will receive their parchment by post.

"Also, to make sure you have opportunities to celebrate your fantastic achievement, we are planning a range of alternative events and activities including a short online ceremony and commemorative brochure and, when social distancing permits, opportunities for souvenir photos in academic dress and reunions on campus.

"We are working with the Students Association on other potential ways to mark and record publicly the achievements of the class of 2021 in this most exceptional and difficult of times.

"Please be assured, we will be contacting you and all other students expected to graduate this year at the earliest possible opportunity to confirm details for how we can come together to celebrate your successful graduation."