The University of the Free State (UFS) recently received 200 computers to the value of R2 million from the Dell Foundation.
The computers will be used in the new computer laboratory, which is being built between the UFS Sasol Library and the Genmin Lectorium on the Main Campus in Bloemfontein.
The building will make ample provision for students who have to make use of a computer for study purposes.
Altogether 815 computers will be at students’ disposal in the new laboratory. On the ground level four rooms will be furnished with computers. Students will be able to have discussions in two of these rooms, while they can work in silence in the other two rooms.
Provision is also made for 18 group rooms, which will be furnished with a computer and big screen. These rooms can occupy seven persons and will be made available by means of a booking.
Lecture halls will be built on the second level, together with the group rooms. The largest of these will have 184 seats and can also be used as an examination hall.
Another hall with 170 seats and three with 40 seats will be available. Two lecture halls will be furnished with laptops on movable desks to enable students to work in groups.
Security cameras will be installed all over the building and strict security measures will be enforced.
The laboratory, with a total project cost of about R28 million, will be in use next year.
Media Release
Issued by: Lacea Loader
Assistant Director: Media Liaison
Tel: 051 401 2584
Cell: 083 645 2454
E-mail:
loaderl.stg@ufs.ac.za
12 May 2008