**U of T Plans Five-Day In-Person Work Week for Admin Staff** The University of Toronto is set to implement a five-day in-person work week for a significant portion of its administrative staff across all three campuses. President Melanie Woodin announced the plan in an email to the university community on Friday. She emphasized that this initiative aims to foster an academic environment where students, faculty, librarians, and staff can engage in face-to-face interactions to "learn, work, debate and solve problems."

The campuses affected include those in Mississauga, Scarborough, and downtown Toronto. The changes are expected to take effect in January, with some departments possibly transitioning sooner. Woodin stated, "This in-person experience is the foundation of our vibrant campus life," highlighting the importance of physical presence in the university's operations.

This announcement marks one of Woodin's initial actions since assuming the presidency in July. The university clarified that the mandate primarily targets administrative staff who do not already work on campus full-time, as many student-facing roles are already predominantly in-person.

The United Steelworkers Local 1998, which represents over 6,300 administrative and technical employees at U of T, expressed concerns regarding the announcement. Union leaders John Ankenman and Tamara Vickery acknowledged that many members might feel "uneasy, confused and frustrated" by the new directive. They noted that the notice does not specify a minimum number of days required on campus, which has led to confusion, particularly for those with existing alternative work arrangements.

Vickery pointed out that the timing of the announcement is troubling, as the current collective agreement does not expire until late June 2026. She stated, "Our members are now going into the weekend feeling uneasy and lacking certainty around what this will look like."

Another challenge raised by the union is the potential lack of available workspace for all staff members. Ankenman mentioned that some departments are already experiencing a "crunch" for space, complicating the transition to a full in-person work week.

Despite these concerns, the university has indicated it will continue to honor its commitment to considering alternative work arrangements. Vickery added, "We will be seeking more clarity on the new direction being taken by the university."

Andrew Park, president of U of T’s Mississauga Students’ Union, noted that students are curious about how this change might improve access to in-person services, such as the University Registrar’s Office. He acknowledged that students have expressed frustration with the difficulties of scheduling online appointments.

Park also recognized the impact this policy may have on administrative staff who have adapted their lives around the flexibility of hybrid work. He stated, "Time will tell how this policy will be implemented."

This move aligns with trends seen in other sectors, as several major banks in Toronto have recently mandated stricter in-office attendance. Additionally, Ontario public servants will also be required to return to the office five days a week starting in January.