UOIT and Durham College announce multimillion-dollar technology investment

Oshawa, ON - Canada's newest university, the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT), and Durham College are pleased to announce today a multimillion-dollar technology investment involving network equipment and services from IBM Canada Ltd., Bell Canada and Nortel Networks. Valued at $100 million, the investment provides Durham College and University of Ontario Institute of Technology students with state-of-the-art technology during their studies, and a competitive advantage in the workplace.

This major technology collaboration provides a laptop-based learning environment for students at the university-the first of its kind in Ontario. An increasing number of programs offered through Durham College will adopt this model of learning.
"Through the generous support of IBM, Nortel Networks and Bell, we are pleased to provide our students with a 21st-century learning environment," said Gerry Pinkney, vice-president of information technology at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology and Durham College.

IBM has an agreement with both institutions to provide IBM ThinkPad computers as well as desktop computers and IBM eServer xSeries. IBM will provide continuing investments in computer hardware, software applications, services and consulting to ensure that UOIT and Durham College remain leaders in the use of technology in the education system.

"Our 10-year agreement with Durham College and the new University of Ontario Institute of Technology is IBM's largest and most comprehensive higher education relationship in Canada," said Ed Kilroy, president, IBM Canada Ltd. "We look forward to working closely with these institutions to implement leading-edge, technology-based learning and administrative initiatives."

Nortel Networks is working with Durham College, UOIT, Bell Canada and IBM Canada to establish a secure, reliable and cost-effective network infrastructure to support laptop-based learning at both institutions. This is expected to include the integration of wireless services on campus, as well as e-learning content and curriculum development. Durham College and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology have agreed to use Nortel Networks LAN (local area network), WAN (wide area network) and VPN (virtual private network) equipment exclusively.

"The visions of Nortel Networks, UOIT and Durham College are in alignment to be leaders by providing innovative, secure and robust networking services in support of important goals like education-eliminating barriers for communications, enhanced learning and research," said Ron McDougall, vice-president, enterprise sales-Canada, Nortel Networks.

Bell Canada's five-year agreement brings new telephony services and support to the university and college including the installation of network cabling services. Bell will also offer discounts and rebates on Sympatico Internet service to students and establish a Sympatico call centre service at the college. Bell will also offer training services to UOIT and Durham College partners, as well as student field placement opportunities.

"Bell is proud to partner with Durham College and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology to deliver the latest technology and infrastructure available to students," said Terry Mosey, president, customer operations, Bell Canada. "Above and beyond the technology itself, we believe that the student placement program, faculty exchange and joint training opportunities are key success factors of this partnership."

Through the leading-edge technology provided by IBM, Nortel Networks and Bell, students are able to make quality computer-based presentations, conduct research, communicate with faculty and access course materials. Students have access to test and assignment results, and may obtain lecture notes and sample spreadsheets electronically, allowing for more focused in-class learning. As well, students use e-mail, Web sites, online discussion groups and other chat forums to collaborate with peers, faculty and experts in their area of study.

About the University of Ontario Institute of Technology

As Canada's newest university, the University of Ontario Institute of Technology provides a unique combination of academic knowledge, vibrant student life, leading-edge research and hands-on skills. The university offers nine degree programs and shares selected facilities with Durham College. Located in Oshawa, Ontario, the university welcomed its first students this month. For more information, visit www.uoit.ca or call 1.866.844.8648.

About Ontario Tech University
A modern, forwarding-thinking university, Ontario Tech advances the discovery and application of knowledge to accelerate economic growth, regional development and social innovation. We inspire and equip our students and our graduates to make a positive impact in a tech-focused world. For us, it’s not only about developing the next tech breakthrough. Understanding and integrating the social and ethical implications of technology differentiates us as university. Learn more at ontariotechu.ca.

Media contact
Heather Middleton
Communications and Marketing
Ontario Tech University
905.721.3111, ext. 2513
heather.middleton@uoit.ca