Behind the walls of academia, a dedicated team of professionals works tirelessly to keep the University of Jos running smoothly. Despite their vital contributions, the Information Technology Services (ITS) often flies under the radar, their efforts unseen but essential. As the backbone of the university’s technology infrastructure, the ITS plays a crucial role in facilitating seamless connectivity, data management, and student record-keeping.
The ITS is divided into two critical units; The Network and Internet Service Unit and The Student and Database Unit. The Network and Internet Service Unit ensures the campus remains digitally connected, providing a lifeline for students, faculty, and staff. Meanwhile, the Student Record and Database Unit safeguards the academic history and personal data of every student, a monumental task that requires precision and dedication.
At the helm of the Student Record and Database Unit is the Registrar, Dr. Rejoice Songden. During our interview, she was represented by Comrade Meshakka Samuel, the former Chief Clerical Officer now serving as Executive Officer in Administration. With a wealth of knowledge at his fingertips, Comrade Samuel shared valuable insights into the unit’s operations. “This section is responsible for maintaining all student records,” he explained. “Our archives date back to the university’s founding, with records divided into three segments: staff, students, and faculties. The purpose of this meticulous documentation is to ensure easy identification and retrieval of information.”
The ITS Department’s second section, the Network and Internet Service Unit, is the force that keeps the university’s digital infrastructure standing. This unit is subdivided into two interconnected components: the Network Unit and the Cybersecurity Unit. Together, they form a robust framework that maintains the university’s operational backbone.
This section is operated by a dedicated team of IT professionals who work tirelessly to provide seamless network and internet services to staff and students. In a conversation with Mr. Joel Gogwim, the Senior Deputy Director and Head of Internet Services, the scope of their responsibilities becomes clear.
“We are not just about providing connectivity,” Mr. Gogwim explains. “We are also responsible for managing the university’s email services, cloud infrastructure, and student portal. But our role goes beyond mere provision, we’re also the guardians of the university’s digital security.”
He further added, “Every student has an exclusive right to their portal, and security measures are in place to ensure that only authorized individuals have access to the university’s network”.
The Unit employs cutting-edge Firewall equipment to monitor and protect every user on the network. This robust security framework ensures that the university’s internet services remain safe from cyber threats, providing a secure environment for students and staff to learn, work, and innovate.
As the technological landscape continues to evolve, the Network and Internet Service Unit faces an unprecedented challenge. Despite their best efforts, the Unit is struggling to keep up with the demands of a rapidly changing digital world.
In addition, the Unit’s limitations are beginning to show. Outdated equipment and a lack of resources are hindering their ability to provide reliable and efficient internet services.
Mr. Joel Gogwim elaborated on the unit’s challenges. “The captain portal, which ensures secure access to the university portal, has been suspended due to a crashed server. We’ve been unable to replace it, and many other equipment have become obsolete. Some equipment requires licenses, but the university has not been able to afford them. Nevertheless, hands are on deck to address all of these within a short time.”
A 300-level Music student by the name Rose Ageh shared an experience that highlighted the unit’s struggles. “During our department’s accreditation process, we launched our E-Library, but we couldn’t access it through the school’s WiFi. We had to rely on our phone networks, which disrupted the entire process.”
Rose also added, “At the beginning of the semester, the connection is usually fast, but when all the students resume, it becomes very slow.”
The Unit’s network monitoring tools are outdated, and the equipment that supports WiFi speed and strength has become old and unreliable. This has resulted in slow and inconsistent internet connectivity, particularly during peak periods.
The Unit’s limitations are having a tangible impact on students’ learning experiences.
In response to incidents like the just-stated one, the Unit has strategically installed configured devices called access points, which provide WiFi connectivity throughout the campus.
Students like Blessing Isaac have praised the university’s efforts, saying that once connected, the WiFi automatically links up with their devices when they’re within range. However, Blessing noted that there’s still room for improvement, particularly during power outages. “The WiFi is reliable in areas where it’s stationed, except during periods of power outage,” she said.
One technique employed by the university’s IT unit is the use of bandwidth, which is optimized for both day and night usage. Interestingly, the nighttime bandwidth is stronger, but often underutilized. Wisdom Okpanachi, a 200-level Special Education student, attested to this. “I use the school WiFi extensively for personal and academic purposes, and I’ve noticed it’s usually stronger at night, but few people take advantage of it.”
Wisdom also highlighted another challenge: the WiFi’s selectivity towards certain devices. “Sometimes, the Wifi is selective to phones and other times you can be connected to the WiFi, but unable to use it. It can be frustrating,” he added.
Another student, Ayodele David raised an observation and believes that the ITS can strive for excellence, especially considering the rapid advancements in technology. One major area for improvement is the provision of free WiFi across the entire campus. “Some faculties and hostels still lack internet services,” David pointed out.
In response to such concerns, the university is taking proactive steps. In October 2024, Huawei Technologies conducted a survey to provide free WiFi to all hostels, including the medical and township hostels. This intervention is expected to take place soon.
The ITS remains committed to providing reliable internet services and with the management’s prompt intervention to address existing challenges, the students can look forward to a more seamless and productive online experience.
Reports and Photos by Queen Winner Peter and Magdalene Nuhu Ushante (ICT Correspondent) (5/5)
Edited by Isama Anyaole Peace
