The Electrical and Electronics Engineering Institute (EEEI) of the College of Engineering (CoE) inaugurated the UP-Samsung Instructional Laboratory on Jan. 30.

The new facility is equipped with 30 tablets with keyboard docks, an interactive, smart whiteboard that can scan documents and play short videos and an LED screen for viewing.

The equipment and software were donated by Samsung Electronics Philippines Corporation (SEPC) and showcases the company’s education teaching tools.

In instructional laboratories, EEEI students are trained in basic usage and handling of computers, equipment and electronic components to equip them with practical skills that complement the theoretical concepts learned in class.

According to the EEEI’s Dr. Nestor Tiglao, the institute is looking to the new laboratory as a model to see how it can develop smart classrooms for UP Diliman (UPD). The new classroom will be initially available to EEEI students.

Presiding over the ceremony were SEPC President and Managing Director Kevin Lee, Samsung R&D Institute Philippines Managing Director Yongduk Hwang, UPD Chancellor Michael L. Tan and CoE Dean Rizalinda L. de Leon.

“I believe in the potential of young Filipino engineers and I would like to continue enjoying the privilege of taking part in growing and maximizing their potential, not only to Samsung job business but also to drive research and technology advancement in the region,” said Hwang.

De Leon said the company’s investment will be put to good use, saying that the laboratory “will definitely enhance the learning experience of our students by getting their hands on the latest technologies.”