Pietermaritzburg Library’s Research Commons.Opening of Research Commons on Pietermaritzburg Campus
The opening of the Research Commons at the library on the Pietermaritzburg campus was a celebration of UKZN’s commitment to the fulfilment of its goals of pre-eminence in research; excellence in teaching and learning and being the institution of choice for learners, said Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), Professor Jonathan Blackledge.
Officially opening the facility, Blackledge said UKZN aimed to produce the highly skilled individuals required to move South Africa from a resource-based to a knowledge-based economy. He highlighted the contribution the Library makes in this regard, working in close co-operation with Colleges and the other support divisions.
Blackledge said UKZN had pledged its commitment to:
· Diversify and rejuvenate the research cohort at the University
· Increase the postgraduate student success rate
· Broaden the knowledge base while ensuring the sustainability of the Institution.
He concluded that the Research Commons was one link in a strong UKZN chain to deliver quality graduates and research to address national and continental imperatives.
The Research Commons is intended to provide UKZN academics, researchers, PhD and Masters students with a dedicated space that is supportive of and conducive to producing quality research. It is a comfortable, secure and spacious venue which includes 20 computer stations running the most up-to-date supported applications software.
Researchers will have access to:
· extensive online resources
· wireless connectivity
· areas for consultation and discussion with supervisors and peers
· printing, photocopying and scanning facilities
· Subject Librarians
The Research Commons will be open according to Library hours until further notice. Access is via swipe card.
Research Commons are also available at the EGM Library, Westville Campus Library and Edgewood Library. The Medical School Library Research Commons is under construction.
Praversh Sukram