Across the University’s four metropolitan and two regional campuses, there is a buzz in the air; a sense of vitality, a feeling of pride, and a certain anticipation for the exciting things yet to come.
That sentiment is being inspired by many things, but notably by the new spaces and facilities now being developed across the University.
Recognising that the way people live, work and study is always evolving, UniSA is undertaking a program of works across its campuses to ensure students, staff and alumni have the right environments in which to learn and grow.
The Jeffrey Smart Building was the first new facility to open its doors, in 2014, creating a new learning space at City West campus. Up next was a student lounge, designed by students for students, opening in 2015 at the same campus, followed by a new childcare centre in Adelaide’s West End.
Also in 2015, ground was broken on three other significant projects – the new Mount Gambier learning centre, the Health Innovation Building located in the South Australian Health and Biomedical Precinct and the Great Hall, which is set to become the heart of the University.
Vice Chancellor Professor David Lloyd says the University’s goal is to be a creative and responsive institution that meets the needs of the community at a local, national and global level – whether that is by producing graduates equipped to adapt to changing job markets, or by finding solutions for industry.
“To achieve our overarching goals, it is important that we provide the right environments to support our students, staff and alumni.” Prof Lloyd says.
The Great Hall, located at City West campus and set for completion in 2017, will play a significant role in building that sense of community.
“By building the Great Hall we are creating a new heart of the University – an iconic venue where thousands of memories will be made,” Prof Lloyd says.
Designed by South Australian firm JPE Design Studio, in association with Norwegian architecture firm, Snøhetta and South Australia’s own JamFactory, the Great Hall will house a large multi-purpose hall that will be transformed for graduations, exams, functions and sporting events.
There are also plans in place to consolidate undergraduate teaching laboratories and upgrade library facilities at City East, establish a new education precinct at Magill, and refurbish undergraduate teaching equipment and laboratories at Mawson Lakes.
Find out more in the enterprising spaces brochure.