Delta Lecture Theatre re-opens at NUST

THE National University of Science and Technology (Nust)'s Delta Lecture Theatre has been re-opened following the completion of its renovations by Delta Beverages. The giant beverages manufacturer assumed the responsibility of renovating the lecture hall in February this year at a cost of about $50 000.
The Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Dr Stan Mudenge, who was representing President Mugabe, officially reopened the facility at a colourful ceremony that was attended by students, Nust's Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Samson Sibanda and his senior university staff and Delta Beverages management.
In his speech, Delta Corporation chairman Mr Cannan Dube said the renovation was part of the company's corporate social responsibility.
"Today marks a very important milestone in the relationship between Nust and Delta Corporation. Nust is one of the leading institutions of higher learning and we are proud to be associated with its continuous development. The lecture theatre refurbished at a cost in excess of $50 000 is a simple proof of the company's commitment in investing in the country and this region," said Mr Dube who was represented by the company's acting general manager for southern region Mr Moses Gambiza.
Delta Beverages pledged to continue working with the Government in improving the quality of education in the country through financing infrastructure development projects at schools and universities.
The company has constructed classroom blocks in many schools in the Matabeleland region and offered scholarships to underprivileged students.
In his acceptance speech, Dr Mudenge applauded Delta Beverages for partnering with Government in upgrading infrastructure at learning institutions.
"Government expresses deep appreciation for the gesture by Delta Beverages. This reflects the tripartite relationship we have. Government alone is not able to take the responsibility. We continue to appeal to the private sector, which consumes much of the products from higher learning institutions to emulate the gesture," said Dr Mudenge.
"More support is needed in the area of scholarships and support for students on attachment.  Parents should also join so that we improve the competitiveness of our education."
The Dean of the Faculty of Commerce, where the lecture theatre is situated, Mr Milton Web Ndlovu said the renovated facility was going to enhance the quality of learning for students in the faculty.
The renovations began in February and involved the installation of modern audio equipment, electronic or remote controlled drop screen for slides, a permanently fitted Liquid Cristal Display (LCD) for coloured power point presentations, repair of chairs, which were burnt by students in one of the demonstrations years back.
The lecture room now has increased security features to protect the new equipment. 
The installed equipment also allows lectures to progress in the absence of the tutor. 
The ceiling, doors and the lighting system has also been renovated.
The company also installed a plaque with the inscription of President Mugabe as its commissioner.
Delta Beverages' top team, then led by Mr Pat Rooney and Mr Joe Mitizwa volunteered to sponsor the lecture theatre in the early 1990s.
Since then the company got the lecture theatre named after it on agreement that the company would regularly maintain the facility.