The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) yesterday commissioned a 400 PC digital lab to boost e-learning in the institution, with support from Fidelity Bank plc.

A quarter of the expected 400 units of laptops are already in place at the digital laboratory on the top floor of the imposing Nnamdi Azikiwe Library, reckoned as the largest public library in sub-Saharan Africa.

UNN Vice Chancellor Prof. Bartholomew Okolo said at the commissioning that the project is one of several in line with the institutional advancement vision to provide an excellent learning environment. He said UNN seeks to benchmark itself against the best across the world in terms of learning environment, infrastructure and support services as well as scholarship.

Okolo said UNN seeks partnerships with various organisations to realise the vision of institutional transformation and welcomed the participation of Fidelity Bank plc in sponsoring the equipment. The Vice Chancellor noted that the over 40 projects either completed or ongoing at the institution draw on strong collaboration between the university and public and private sector organisations.

Fidelity Bank plc presented a cheque for N10m representing counterpart funding for the computers with a pledge to ensure it provides all 400 units needed in the digital laboratory.

The digital lab provides facilities for e-conferencing, touch screen display boards and digital audio facilities.

Executive Director of Fidelity Bank, Mr. Nnamdi Okonkwo, cut the tape to commission the facility. Okonkwo said Fidelity Bank was glad to collaborate with UNN and current administration because of the remarkable strides in changing the outlook of the institution in all ramifications. The project fits in with the Corporate Social Responsibility programme of the bank, he added.

“When you go around, you see obvious signs that a transformation is taking place. We like what we are seeing here and would like to be part of anything that would improve the learning environment in the institution,” Okonkwo stated.

The Fidelity Bank Executive Director said that as part of its partnership with the University of Nigeria, the bank would soon commission its new branch building within the campus.

Okonkwo emphasised the imperative of supporting efforts to transform public universities to compete with the best, as this would enable many more citizens benefit from quality education.

The 42^nd Convocation ceremonies of the University of Nigeria would commence on Thursday January 24 with a Convocation lecture by former Education Minister, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili. The institution says 19880 persons would receive first and higher degrees, including 116 First Class Honours and 195 doctorate degrees.