UTech Annual Report 2018-19

Accredited by the University Council of Jamaica (UCJ) ANNUAL REPORT 2018-2019 University of Technology, Jamaica 82 As a key enabler for the institutional accreditation process, IT services and support were further strengthened by the Technology and Information Management Department during the reporting period. Upgrade of Network Infrastructure Approximately one hundred (100) new wireless access points were installed at various locations on the campuses. Over twenty-two (22) network switches were also installed in the School of Engineering. This has significantly improved access to internal network resources and the internet. Extensive network cabling was also done in support these activities. Security Enhancements The University’s external firewall was upgraded in March 2019 to benefit from advanced threat prevention, secure traffic encryption and higher throughput. Additional software was also acquired to assist with threat hunting, containment and elimination. Server Migration A number of network systems and business applications were migrated to new servers. This has improved their security and performance. Select systems have also been configured with high availability options. A/V Support and Services A/V equipment was acquired and installed in three rooms (18B13-15) located in the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management. The equipment configuration allows for independent or combined usage of the rooms. As a result, teaching and learning activities have been enriched in these spaces. Online Learning Enhancements The BlackBoard Collaborate videoconferencing software which integrates well with UTechOnline (Moodle) and allows lecturers to easily launch online video sessions with students was implemented in December 2018. The features of this software are tailored for academic delivery. System Implementation The Online Academic Records Request System was implemented in June 2018. Past and present students are now able to request transcripts, status letters and statements online. They are also able to pay for these services via Paymaster, Bill Express or the UTech Mr. Hugh Brown Senior Director Technology and Information Management