Not Worth the Price

By Paul Anthony M. Eso

(Vol. XXVIX No. 7, Editorial Cartoon)

Our very own Internet Research Station (IRS) is considered to be one of the most serviceable facilities that the Norsunians ever had. The facility provides students and faculty access to the fast mode services of the internet. It is also a God-sent educational tool, especially for those taking computer-related courses.

However, there are numerous complaints about the seemingly poor management of the IRS. These include allegations that IRS personnel are inconsiderate and that students are not allowed access to available computer units.

It has reached The NORSUnian that an IRS staff member allegedly shut off computers even when students are still in the middle of their work. Why should he turn the PCs off if someone is still using it? Is it to punish the student for going beyond his/her allocated time? That is just plain heartless. The students deserve to be warned so they can save or secure their work.

Crowds of students needing to use the computers have also swelled outside the IRS since the staff only made one out of the three rooms available for students to use. It has been explained by Information Technology Office (ITO) Director Henedino Ramacho that the IRS only keeps one room operational throughout the day to save electricity. He was quick to add, though, that IRS staff members have been directed to open the other IRS rooms when the first room is full. But why was this directive was not carried out immediately? Why open the two rooms only after numerous complaints from students?

We appreciate the immediate reaction of the ITO and the IRS to appease the students. But we suggest for them to be more proactive and considerate. May we also suggest that they keep their 8am to 8pm operating hours instead of opening almost at 9am and closing at 7pm.

Students have been accused of complaining too much. Students complain because it is their right. Students also complain when things need to be remedied or when they feel they have been short-changed.

If the IRS personnel think that students are making too much of a fuss, please remember that every semester, each student pays 300 pesos to avail of the services of the IRS. Right now, its services are certainly not worth the price.