The Faculty of Sciences Holds On and Continues Its Mission

At the BME, FDS is holding on, organizing itself and continuing its teaching mission. Even before leaving its former premises, the security situation was already deteriorating. Some professors no longer wanted to go downtown and were giving their classes online, confided Janin Jadotte, the faculty's administrative officer. After the events of late February 2024, the institution had to abandon its premises.<\/p>

“A few days after February 29, 2024, a team mandated by the faculty entered the site despite the risks and was able to evacuate some documents and materials,” explained Mr. Jadotte.<\/p>

After a month of uncertainty, the BME agreed to host the FDS. Its director, a former student and former professor of the faculty, facilitated this provisional solution. Due to lack of space, only the students in the specialization cycle were initially able to attend classes on site. The others had to wait and complete the academic year at a high school in Tabarre.<\/p>

Gradually, the entire faculty joined the BME. “They provided us with an old workshop. We had to adjust the schedules to hold classes. The first year functioned on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The second year, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays,” explained Janin Jadotte.<\/p>

For the current academic year, a second classroom has been set up in a container. This installation allows first and second-year students to attend their classes in person every day. The three other classes attend online classes and participate in in-person sessions as needed. Assessments, however, take place on site, clarified Mr. Jadotte.<\/p>

Arrangements to Improve Learning Conditions<\/strong><\/p>

During a visit to the site, Le Nouvelliste observed the launch of works that will allow the faculty to operate under more acceptable conditions. Spaces are being arranged to host laboratories. Preparations are also underway for the construction of a sanitary block suitable for the number of students attending the site.<\/p>

While the FDS now has a minimum of infrastructure to ensure classes, its administration still does not have its own premises. Some offices at the BME are temporarily serving as workspaces.<\/p>

This year, the board of directors hopes to set up offices for the administration and build small laboratories to facilitate practical work. At the same time, Janin Jadotte indicated that the faculty had already acquired some books to rebuild its documentary fund and establish a modern library.<\/p>

Beyond material constraints, the availability of professors is a positive point. According to the administrative officer, a few teachers have left the faculty, but former students, who are also well-trained, have replaced them. Thanks to technological tools, other professors continue to teach their classes remotely.<\/p>

The FDS offers undergraduate programs in chemistry and civil engineering with specializations in architecture, civil engineering, electromechanics, and electronics. It also allows for obtaining a diploma in surveying.<\/p>

At the master's level, the faculty offers programs in computer science, geosciences, and chemistry. Another program in urban planning is awaiting launch.<\/p>

To validate their training, students must complete a project and defend it. They must also carry out an internship in the field. This requirement represents a real headache for the board of directors, as insecurity reduces internship opportunities and directly penalizes students.<\/p>

Janin Jadotte explained that the faculty had attempted to conclude a framework agreement with the Ministry of Public Works, Transport and Communications (MTPTC) to facilitate the hosting of interns. So far, however, this approach has not been successful.<\/p>

Despite these difficulties, the FDS has launched the recruitment of a new cohort of students. The admission exam is scheduled for October 24. According to Janin Jadotte, the number of applicants already registered is approaching the total number of students enrolled last year at the same time.<\/p><\/div><\/div>