The UPLB Learning Resource Center (LRC) launched its Learning Hub during a program held on March 11 at 1pm at the sunken lobby of the Student Union building. 

LRC set up the Learning Hub following the plan of UPLB to gradually resume face-to-face classes.

The LRC Learning Hub aims to provide students easy access to internet and computer services in an open and well-ventilated area. 

It shall serve as a safe area for students to attend their online classes and to undertake independent learning activities such as production of outputs, assignment making, and research, as well as for reading physical references such as books. 

A stable internet connection, five personal computer units with applications such as Microsoft Office and Zoom have been set up at the Learning Hub. 

Desks equipped with power outlets are provided for students to use for their personal laptops. 

Learning materials such as books, journals, modules, and other resources donated by colleges, organizations, and individuals are also available at the Learning Hub.

Students may read these or work on their academic requirements at a lounge area or at tables set up at an outdoor balcony overlooking Molawin Creek. 

The launching program was graced by Chancellor Jose V. Camacho, Jr. who said that the LRC Learning Hub will play a significant role in the gradual implementation of face-to-face classes in the university in providing a safe and accessible space conducive for students’ online and offline requirements.

Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs (OVCSA) Janette H. Malata-Silva also gave a message where she expressed her support for LRC’s initiative and her hopes that other colleges in the university will use the facility as a benchmark in installing their respective learning hubs.

LRC OIC-Director John Mervin L. Embate expressed his gratitude to the units that helped make the Learning Hub a reality, namely: the Office of Scholarships and Grants for the tables, the Office of Student Housing for the computer units, the Information and Technology Center for the internet connection, the OVCSA Research, Communication, and Information Technology for installing software, the University Planning and Maintenance Office for the electrical and water connection and for ensuring that the hub adheres to COVID-19 protocols of the university, the colleges and organizations who donated books, and the LRC team for their unwavering efforts and support.

Also in attendance were members of the OVCSA executive committee, representatives of the University Student Council, UPMO Deputy Director Donny Rey Camus, Office of Public Relations Director Mark Lester Chico, and Dr. Analyn Codilan, chair of the Ad Hoc Committee for the Gradual Reopening and Conduct of Limited Face-to-Face Class Activities in UPLB. Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Jean O. Loyola also visited the Learning Hub.

For now, the Learning Hub is open only for students who have been allowed campus access during the implementation of the limited face-to-face activities in the university. 

More students may be accommodated once a wider re-opening of the campus is allowed. 

Those who want to secure a reservation at the Learning Hub may register through this link.(Joshua Michael G. Jonas)