UTech, Ja Annual Report 2017-18

University of Technology, Jamaica “Pioneering Past; Bright Future ” ANNUAL REPORT 2017-2018 7 Resources Both the teaching and research functions of the university require resources and proper infrastructure if we are to endure. As to resources, the university has recently improved its technical capacity through the setting up of two new computer laboratories with more than 90 new computers. We are also continuously making efforts to ensure that our software capabilities and online access are brought up to acceptable standards. Thus, wi-fi facilities are now fully available at our Montego Bay campuses and in the Kingston campuses at Arthur Wint Drive and Braemar Avenue. Making our way in the digital age is expensive, but the university has committed significant funding to meet this challenge. Infrastructure As to infrastructure, we are aware that some areas of our plant need improvement. We note with gratitude that, largely through contributions from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and matching UTech funds, the campus now has a new Shared Facilities Building — officially opened by the Minister of Education, Senator the Hon Ruel Reid on December 14, 2017. Prof. Stephen Vasciannie, CD, President, University of Technology, Jamaica cuts the ribbon at Lab 47B1 symbolising the official commissioning of the three new computer laboratories at the Shared Facilities Building. President Vasciannie is flanked by Prof. Colin Gyles (2nd left), Deputy President, Mrs. Mercedes Deane (left), University Registrar and Deans, Prof. Nilza Aples (3rd left), Faculty of Engineering and Computing, (back row, from left), Dr. Kamilah Hylton, Faculty of Science and Sport, Dr. Garfield Young, Faculty of The Built Environment and Dr. Rohan Lewis, Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies, and Mrs. Genefa Hibbert (2nd row, left), Chief Operations and Projects Officer (Acting).