Computer lab for the Department of Architecture inaugurated

Kumasi, Jan. 26, GNA - The Computer Laboratory of the Department of the Architecture of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi, has been refurbished and stocked with chairs by the Architects Registration Council (ARC) and the Ghana Institute of Architects (GIA) at the cost of 191 million cedis. The two associations have also donated books worth 18 million cedis for use at the laboratory.

Funds for the provision of the chairs came from the 10 per cent subscription fees of the members of the ARC and the GIA. At a ceremony to inaugurate the refurbished laboratory in Kumasi on Tuesday, the Basel University of Switzerland also presented 30 computers and accessories to the department.

Presenting the books and the chairs, professor Ralph Mills-Tettey, a member of the GIA said the two associations have appreciated the efforts of the Department of Architecture to train more architects for the country.

He said the donation was therefore, their widow's mite towards the improvement of the facilities at the department to enhance teaching and learning.

Mrs Elizabeth Koranteng, daughter of Professor Ulrich Gabler, Director of the University of Basel in Switzerland, who was present at the ceremony, said the donation was the university's desire to improve the facilities at the KNUST.

She hoped that the bond of friendship and good relations between the two universities would be strengthened to ensure development of Ghana and Switzerland.

Professor Kwesi Andam, Vice Chancellor of the KNUST, who received the items, said it was the policy of the KNUST to undertake research to bring about the technological advancement of the nation as well as service to the community to help alleviate poverty.

He revealed that the University of Basel and the International Programmes Office were also collaborating to set up an African Studies Centre where exchange programmes of staff and students would be a possibility to enrich our educational system.

Professor Andam thanked the donors for the gifts and appealed to organisations and non-governmental organisations to emulate the example. 26 Jan. 05