DWU opens its 11th computer lab
DIVINE Word University (DWU) in Madang yesterday took another step forward with the opening of its 11th computer laboratory.
The new laboratory adds to the giant steps DWU is taking in information technology (IT) including intranet and internet facilities for all staff members and students, broadband wireless Internet on campus (the only place outside of Port Moresby) and the academic research network (ARNet) to be introduced soon which would revolutionise the education system in the country.
There are 28 computers in the new laboratory, with full intranet and internet access, accounting software such as MYOB, Peachtree, QuickBooks and Attaché.
DWU also has the highest ratio of computers for students in the country with one computer to two students, compared to the Australian university system, where there is a ratio of one computer to 10 students.
The laboratory was officially opened by Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology Michael Ogio.
“Today, we see a further development in the DWU infrastructure ,” its vice-president (academic) Bro Andrew Simpson said.
“The minister has commented on the commitment at DWU to quality higher education and the correct development of appropriate technology and resources,” he said, adding the opening of this computer laboratory continued the development of such resources in the country.
Bro Simpson said the computer laboratory marked the 11th on the campus and there would be more to follow.
“We now have the ratio of one computer to 10 students, and in the Australian university system it is one computer to 10 students.
“We must be responsible for the correct use of this computer technology,” he said.
Bro Simpson said in opening this computer lab, they also recognised the important role of the business faculty, and particularly its business studies department.
“Business studies have been a well-recognised DWU programme.
“We now hope that the students in the faculty and the department will find this computer laboratory a further assistance in their studies,” he said.
Mr Ogio described DWU as the “pride of the nation”.
He said he was much impressed to see what the university was offering to its students.
“I know that the courses that are provided to our students are tailored to the needs of our developing nation,” he said.
Mr Ogio said one should not forget that Papua New Guinea is not an insulated country.
“I am very happy, very proud of what DWU is doing for the country and the Government,” he said.
DWU president Father Jan Czuba said the laboratory added to the vision of the institution to become an IT university.
“From 2010, every student at the university and every staff member will use information technology for learning and teaching,” he said.
Fr Czuba added DWU would encourage students to learn who would have access to all research papers and documents.
“We in Papua New Guinea are part of the world community. Therefore, we must use the resource of information technology to catch up with the rest of the world. We must reach international standards,” Fr Czuba said.
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