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New library for Missionvale

THE opening of a state-of-the-art library at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University’s (NMMU’s) Missionvale Campus this month is further evidence of the university’s intention to meet the needs of both the students and society it serves.

The R38.5m “green” building is among the first buildings in the country to incorporate the digital address lighting interface (Dali) system which relies on sensors to control lighting levels. It also uses carbon dioxide sensors to ensure that the ventilation system is energy efficient.

“It’s one of the most advanced buildings of its kind in South Africa,” NMMU’s director of planning and projects Stuart Blignaut said.

A further R50m is also being spent on upgrading infrastructure for the 53 programmes that will be running at the campus by 2012. In short, Missionvale Campus will offer a multi-academic programme approach particularly in science, technology and education.

Work has already begun on a student centre, incorporating the former library, and an upgrade of the sports grounds.

Both the sports grounds, adjacent to the bigger indoor seating venue in the province, and new library will also be enjoyed by the adjacent community.

“We have acquired material to assist grade 11 and 12 learners and will work closely with the Faculty of Education,” said NMMU’s Missionvale Campus librarian Omaya Allie, who praised staff for the hard work in transporting 54 000 books from the old library to the new building.

She added that the basement section of the new building had been earmarked for community engagement and that an interactive media classroom was on the cards.

The campus is also establishing a medicinal garden – to tie in with its research and to provide a relaxing environment for both staff and students.

In short, Missionvale Campus will actively seek to “grow NMMU’s growth areas” in response to both local and national needs.

Enquiries:
Mr Khaya Matiso
	Position: Campus Principal Department: News Phone: 27 41 504 1246 Fax: 27 41 464 2535 E-mail: khaya.matiso

Issued by:
Ms Roslyn Baatjies
	Position: Media Liaison Practitioner Department: Marketing & Corporate Relations Phone: 041-504 2777 / 082 7712 100 Fax: 086 6165 676 E-mail: roslyn.baatjies Location: Summerstrand Campus (North)