PHILIPSBURG:--- The University of St Martin (USM) has received a generous donation of computers and laptops from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine (AUC). The donation is being used for a crucial technology upgrade for USM students. “AUC is glad to be able to contribute to help further student success within the higher education community on Sint Maarten,” said Dr. Colin Michie, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs for AUC. “USM has been such a solid academic and community partner to AUC, we look forward to continued collaboration to help strengthen the educational community.” In January, USM signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding with AUC and NIPA for further continued collaboration among the three institutions. While donations were not part of the MOU, all parties expressed their desire to share resources that are beneficial to the institutions of higher learning and the community at large. The very timely donation came at a time when older computers were starting to fail, thus limiting the number of reliable functioning workstations available for students.
“As IT technician at USM, I try my best to ensure that our campus remains up to date with fresh and innovative ideas and technologies that would make USM the first choice for those hoping to further their studies. For some time, I identified the need for updated equipment. The donation received is, therefore, very much appreciated” said Mr. Donelly Granger. The excitement of updated workstations was also shared by students and instructors who visited the lab. “I’m really liking the new look in the lab … more and BETTER computers have been added to the room which we have been wanting for a long time,” said business student Jameson Pierre Louis. The management of USM continues to take on an active role in seeking assistance as it improves its IT resources to better meet the needs of students, staff, and faculty members.
“The rebuilding of USM is a joint effort and everyone has a part to play”, said USM Dean of Academics Dr. Rolinda Carter. “While this initiative was birthed during a meeting between Deans, it was rapidly turned over to the IT departments of AUC and USM to make it a reality. This speaks to the collaboration that continues to exist between both institutions at all levels.” USM remains grateful to AUC for this donation as USM students continue to make full use of the computers for projects, assignments and the preparation of exams.
