Wits University rolls out hi-tech ICT solution for better learning, research

The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University) is in the process of upgrading its inter-campus bandwidth to ensure that all its campuses have access to the best and fastest bandwidth available. It has partnered with Dimension Data on the Inter Campus Link Upgrade (ICLU) project.

The ICLU will enable Wits University to effectively manage and distribute high bandwidth between its dispersed campuses and improve connectivity to previously under-serviced Wits sites. Wits will connect all five campuses through a scalable and flexible network that will be readily available at all times. The ICLU will enhance access to information, and will support Wits' teaching, learning, research and social leadership activities.

Prof Yunus Ballim, Wits Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic, says: “Research, teaching and community engagement is not possible at a modern university without access to reliable ICT infrastructure. Wits is ambitious about the quality of its intellectual engagements and our continued commitment to infrastructure development is one way of ensuring that we retain our edge in the world of higher education. Our partnership with Dimension Data on this project will ensure that we are strengthened in our delivery of high level and scarce intellectual skills to South Africa, as well as research that is responsive to the challenges of our time.”

Dimension Data will supply, install and commission fibre-optic cables, wireless backhaul links, upgrade associated core networking equipment and related software. The company will also ensure integration with the existing network as well as interoperability and interface functionality, as applicable between all components. The installation of a fibre-optic cable will enhance the connectivity between the University's Braamfontein (East and West) campuses, and its Parktown campuses (Wits Management Campus, Education Campus and the Wits Medical School). It will also enhance the connectivity between the university and some of its residences in Parktown and Hillbrow, as well as the Wits Hillbrow Health Precinct.

“Dimension Data is honoured to partner with Wits University in its quest to use technology to improve student and staff productivity, which will result in increased learning opportunities available for all,” adds Makano Mosidi, Public Sector Executive: Dimension Data Middle East and Africa.

As a research-driven university, Wits' success and international reputation is highly dependent on reliable and competitive ICT solutions to support its intellectual projects, which includes 19 South African Research Chairs, seven research institutes, 20 research units, 10 research groups, three Centres of Excellence and more than 200 rated scientists. The university is currently home to approximately 29 000 students and about 6 000 staff members.