On Friday 25th, April 2014, Professor John Ddumba Ssentamu – the Vice Chancellor, Makerere University officially opened a re-equipped computer laboratory at the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) housed in the Chemistry Department. The equipment in the laboratory includes 50 computer clients and two (2) remote controlled servers. This was made possible through funding by the University worth 50,000USD.
CoNAS through its predecessor, the Faculty of Science received 150 computers through a foreign grant some years back which were distributed to various laboratories. However, the computers were old and required refurbishment hence the funding from the University to re-equip one of the laboratories.
In his remarks, the VC said, ‘Universities the world over are repositioning themselves to serve the increasing number of learners and demand for research and off-campus based study’. He reiterated the importance of using computers as a tool for teaching and learning. He noted that ICT technologies can support many different types of capability including: internet access to digital versions of materials unavailable locally; interactive diagnostic or adaptive tutorials; personalised information and guidance for learning support; simulations or models of scientific systems; communications tools for collaboration with other students and teachers and many more. He said, ‘We recognise that with the increasing population of students, 50 computers do not satisfy the demand but this is only a start and more is required’.
The VC was received by the Deputy Principal, Dr. John Mango. In the remarks of the CoNAS Principal delivered by Dr. Mango, he thanked the VC for visiting the College to officially open the re-equipped computer laboratory. He also thanked the University Management who availed the funds to buy the computers. Dr. Mango noted that vandalism and theft was a leading cause of loss of equipment in the university, more security and manpower is required to ensure safety in the laboratories in the university. He thanked Dr. Kasozi (Dean – School of Physical Sciences), the Chairman ICT in the College who coordinated the re-equipment of the laboratory.
The function was also attended by the Deans of Schools of CoNAS, Director of DICTS, heads of departments of CoNAS, staff and students. A vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Steven Nyanzi.