STUDENT LIFE

MUT Wi-Fi keeps you connected!

 

Zwelakhe Shangase

Wi-Fi on University campuses is nothing new and this is largely due to the common need to share information. In this digital age, MUT is committed to allowing students’ increased access to connect from anywhere on our two campuses, without visiting the computer labs.  The process, which sees on-going improvements covers areas such as the library, lecture venues and communal areas in all the student residences. Some of the key benefits of Wi-Fi is that it allows;

·         Multi access - students to gain access to online resources from anywhere they might be on campus; this also helps to alleviate overcrowding at computer labs.

·         Multiple devices - students can use a variety of devices, ranging from laptops to tablets and smartphones, to connect to the internet.

·         Pocket library – whether in the classroom or when studying on the go, Wi-Fi puts reference sources at your fingertips for research, documentation or consultation. From the campus library to the World Wide Web, students can get the information they need to help them in their studies.

·         Phone home – students can download Skype and other Video calling applications to stay in touch with family for free. Imagine – no more expensive calls and airtime.

·         Group study sessions – with the ability to network via a Wi-Fi, students can study collectively, sharing notes and prepping for exams.

·         Study guides – students can access study guides and other important material through the Blackboard mobile app. The ability to access such study information on the go is ideal for student needs.

MUT doesn’t charge for the wireless internet access, but there is a need to ensure that students use the internet service responsibly. To this end, the University has enforced a policy that will ensure that responsible use of the Wi-Fi service is adhered to. The policy will ensure that the internet is treated as an educational tool, where restrictions will apply that relate to using the internet for what it is provided for – teaching, learning and research.

As part of the bigger MUT ICT strategy, the Wi-Fi access is an indication of MUT’s continuous efforts in striving to be seen as a University of stature and as a sophisticated institution of higher learning. Students will have a better chance at succeeding in their academics by giving them the access to the information they need wherever they are.

RESIDENCE PROFILE: BERNARD CLOSE

For many students, University means freedom and growing up. MUT houses over 60% of its student population in 16 Residences – two on campus and 14 around the Durban. First year students who choose the Residence option are placed on-campus while second and third year students are placed at residences off campus.

Bernard Close is situated in the suburb of Sherwood 10 minutes’ drive outside of the Durban CBD.  The student capacity for this residence is 400 students. The res offers double rooms (X4 students), study rooms and a kitchen on each floor. A student pays an overall amount of R13010 inclusive of transport to stay at Bernard Close and the deposit is estimated at R5910.

The Bernard Close residence is popular among many students as it is located in close proximity to major shopping malls in Durban; The Pavilion and Westwood Malls. The residence is also located next to major hospitals; St Augustine’s Hospital, Entabeni Life Hospital and King Dinizulu Hospital.

Students are ferried from their respective residences by MUT buses which come at specific times with the first being at 7am in the morning from the Residence and the last being at 9pm from the MUT campus every weekday. 

Let’s hear your views about the res you live in, rate it out of 10, and tell us what’s interesting and hot about it.