UQ Gatton experts design Timor agricultural laboratory

A new agricultural laboratory complex designed at UQ Gatton will serve more than 1000 students in East Timor.

Dr Gordon Dryden, one of two UQ Gatton lecturers involved in a major rehabilitation program at the National University of East Timor, has just returned from the official opening by President Xanana Gusmao.

Dr Dryden, a senior lecturer in Animal Nutrition, and Iean Russell, a lecturer in Natural and Rural Systems Management, are part of a national team with specialists from Curtin University in Western Australia and the Northern Territory University.

The three-year project funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research is designed to get the Timor agricultural faculty functioning again after being destroyed by civil insurrection in 1999.

Dr Dryden said the new complex containing six laboratories, tutorial rooms and ancillary facilities was designed to the highest Australian standards and would be a valuable teaching and research asset for the emerging nation.

“The shell of an existing building that had been destroyed was completely rebuilt. It was a challenge to bring the project in on budget,” Dr Dryden said.

Fittings were obtained locally and equipment was donated to get the laboratory operational for the new academic year.

In addition to restoring facilities at the University, the ACAIR program is also focused on options for staff training, assistance with curriculum design and developing research projects.

UQ is hosting visits to this country to help improve academic performance.

Dr Dryden said there had been enormous support for the university restoration within the Timorese community.

“Demand for places at the University is very strong with the Agriculture Faculty well supported. The students now being trained will play an important part in building up the agriculture industry in East Timor,” Dr Dryden said.

Media: For more information, contact Dr Gordon Dryden (telephone 07 5460 1255) or Anthony Smith (telephone 0409 265 587).