New equipment for OIST

Oasis Institute for Science and Technology now has 58 students in its two diploma programs, Civil Engineering and Computer Science. As these students advance every semester, they need additional lab equipment for subjects such as engineering drawing, Python programming, graphics design, digital electronics, accounting, Java, web design and development, computer and microprocessor architecture, data communications, structural mechanics, surveying, construction processes, estimating and costing, geo-technical engineering, hydrology etc.  Financing expensive lab equipment is always a challenge, with some items each costing many thousands of dollars. Fortunately, during 2023 generous donors had contributed enough that we could spend $10,000 CAD for lab equipment in addition to our regular subsidy of faculty salaries. We are still catching-up the requirements for our students’ needs, but as you can see from the photo, the latest acquisitions will make a big difference.

New publication by IUBAT Nursing faculty member

Shuvashish Das Bala, Assistant Professor & Coordinator at IUBAT College of Nursing, has recently co-authored “Impact of El Niño on public health and its preparedness measures," published in Springer’s Bulletin of the National Research Centre. The authors write, “By understanding the interplay between El Niño events and health vulnerabilities, communities can better prepare for and mitigate the health risks posed by these climatic fluctuations. Strengthened early warning systems, improved healthcare infrastructure, effective communication strategies, and collaborative efforts between various stakeholders are crucial in enhancing preparedness and safeguarding public health.” Bangladesh is at high risk for climate-related disasters, so this analysis is an important contribution to the public health literature.

Award to Advisory Committee member

Congratulations to OFP Advisory Committee member Shahidul Islam who was recently presented the Arbor Award at University of Toronto. The award honors individuals who have contributed exceptional volunteer service to the University of Toronto. Shahidul has extensive experience in education policy, planning, and program evaluation. Recently, Michigan State University appointed him as the Senior Specialist, Educational Leadership Professional Development, at the College of Education, East Lansing, MI, USA. As an OFP Advisor, Shahidul has provided invaluable support for Bluebell School and helped us focus teacher efforts on student achievement.