The benefits of digital technology shouldn’t just be available to those who can afford it. Huawei’s mission is to expand the benefits of technology to everyone, everywhere. To achieve this they have developed a digital inclusion strategy that focuses on three areas: technology, applications, and skills. This fits with the University’s of Zululand strategic goal 2 which is to create a quality teaching and learning environment as a comprehensive university. We believe that technology will make life better for every student.
The Huawei IdeaHub is the ultimate solution to enhance teaching and learning it provides video conferencing needs, as it offers a multi-faceted communications platform that uses advanced technologies and hardware to facilitate meetings, provide a digital whiteboard, and much more teaching and learning tools which will benefit the University community especially our students.
HUAWEI are global leaders in information communications technology which is why the University of Zululand is proud to receive this much-needed tool from a reputable company. They are futuristic and engaged within the development of cutting-edge technologies. Taking advantage of this partnership, Mr. Manci, Professor Seepe, and the VC’s office engaged in the discussion of how to turn the University into a digital campus.
In receiving this donation the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mtose mentioned that there is no doubt that COVID 19 has upended the upended the routine ways of being and seeing.
“The disruption has been total. This calls for recalibration and redefinition, not only of how we conduct our business and what that business is in our times. This requires experimenting and fine-tuning of those technologies that can help us to overcome challenges imposed by the pandemic. Much has been said regarding the role of robotics, artificial intelligence, augmented virtual reality and the use of technology in creating virtual worlds”.
“New technologies were reshaping the future of work even before the pandemic increased reliance on automation and remote working. Now, 25 percent more workers may need to switch occupations—making reskilling essential. And like many other workplace challenges, automation disproportionately affects women and Black employees.” Global Consulting company McKinsey is correct in making this observation.
Therefore through this donation, the University is already experimenting with and has engaged the academic staff members on what pedagogies will be suited for our students. It is about re-imagining what constitutes a lecture hall or a classroom.
Caption: The University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Xoliswa Mtose with Mr. Jacob Young from HUAWEI.
- Gcina Nhleko
