Upgrade of the GIS Laboratory supported by ESRI
At a presentation held recently at the University, the Environment Systems
Research Institute (ESRI) supported the University's GIS Lab by sponsoring the software upgrade to the full ArcGIS 8 product range. Ms Maria Attard,
Academic Coordinator of the lab explained how since the setting up of the
GIS lab in 1996 the number of students attending GIS courses increased
to cover a whole array of undergraduate studies from geography, computing, archaeology, biology, engineering, agriculture, education and architecture.
At post graduate level the GIS Lab supports the fields of geography, planning, archaeology and biology. It organizes seminars and workshops for staff
and students with demand increasing annually. With increased computing capabilities, students and staff use the software independently and apply it in various disciplines or within a particular research project.
Jobs are increasingly demanding knowledge of GI Systems and through the efforts
of the GIS lab the University is making sure that more students are prepared
for the work environment. With ESRI's support, the GIS Lab will now be
able to provide better education and facilities, to expand the knowledge
of the applications and science of GIS, and also produce the much needed human
capabilities which the industry requires. The ESRI representative, Mr
Jerry Johnson also suggested efforts for the University to expand its facilities
into secondary schools and also look at preparing the students who will
be eventually join the University. The Pro-Rector, Professor Charles Farrugia
thanked ESRI on behalf of the University and with Robert Sultana, Director
of the Computing Services Centre pledged their support to the operations of
the GIS Lab.
18.06.03