L-R: BB Fakae (onetime vice chancellor) with Isaac Zeb-Obipi (present vice chancellor) at the unveiling
The Rivers State University (RSU), formerly University of Science and Technology (UST), is now on the march to a smart university by a ‘connected campus’ system. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, the vice chancellor, has laid the plan on the table at an unveiling that attracted tech buffs and academic gurus including members of the Governing Council of the University, senate, management, heads of campuses, provosts, deans, directors, heads of departments, distinguished faculty staff, students, partners, Cinfores (the tech firm that builds and manages it), host communities, etc.
The Okrika-born Professor of Management said the day marked a defining moment in the history of the great institution, a day to reaffirm commitment to innovation, access, and excellence through the official launch of the RSU Digital Solutions. Saying the RSU aspired to be among the top 3 universities in Nigeria, top 20 in Africa, and top best 100 in the world, the VC said the goal is to create a connected campus that empowers every stakeholder, students, staff, sponsors, alumni, and partners.
He unveiled the 11 different pillars that form the ‘RSU Digital Initiatives System’. They include the v-Learning (a virtual learning management system where lecturers can teach, assess, and engage students virtually, while students enjoy flexible access to learning materials anytime, anywhere); FiriX workflow and document management system (which helps RSU to say goodbye to the inefficiencies of paper-based administration); CAP (Computer for All Programme that ensures that every student and staff member can own a personal computer through affordable installment plans); RSU e-Campus Aspire Mobile App (which brings RSU to your fingertips, from fee payments and course registration to result checking and notifications); and SponsorsLink which would allow sponsors, parents, and guardians to monitor their wards’ academic progress and financial obligations in real time.
