New Computer Lab for CS Department
Request Details
Description
The Computer Science department requires a new dedicated computer lab to accommodate growing student enrollment. The current Lab 103 (30 seats) is insufficient for practical sessions which now have 60+ students enrolled per section.
Academic Justification
Three core courses (CS201, CS203, CS205) require hands-on lab work. Students currently attend in split sessions, doubling instructor workload. A second lab would allow full cohort practical sessions and enable new courses in AI/ML that require GPU workstations.
Affected Courses
Budget Impact
Approval Timeline
Dean Approval
Prof. T. Magunje — Faculty of Science
Approved on 14 Mar 2026 — "Essential for maintaining quality of CS programme."
Facilities Director Review
Reviewing space availability and cost estimates
Assigned 15 Mar 2026 — Reviewing Room 109 (SCA) as potential location
Building Manager Assignment
Pending facilities approval
Discussion
I've approved this request. The current lab situation is untenable — we are running split sessions for CS201 and CS203 which doubles instructor contact hours. Room 109 on the ground floor of SCA would be ideal as it's adjacent to the existing Lab 103.
Room 109 is currently used as a storage room. We can clear it but will need 3-4 weeks for renovation (electrical upgrades for 40 workstations, network cabling, and cooling). I've requested updated quotes from our contractors. The $45K estimate looks reasonable.
The Easter break (Apr 17-20) would be a good window to start renovation work with minimal disruption to teaching. Can we target having it ready by start of Semester 2?