SU Ag Center establishes community technology centers

Ag Center representatives William Augustine (far left) and Wilbert Harris (far right) helped the members of the Disciple Baptist Church set up a computer lab and are joined by the pastor the Rev. Lee Roy Jack Jr. and his wife.

In an effort to bring technology and information to underserved communities in Louisiana, the Southern University Ag Center and the Center for Rural and Small Business Development has set up several computer labs like the one located in Disciple Baptist Church in Ville Platte.

Wilbert Harris Jr., Bisnet technical support specialist, assisted by William Augustine, technology research associate, installed the computers and offered training to community members. The computer lab was opened in December 2007 for the church and community members.

During the opening ceremony, Jack said the church's primary goal for the lab is to educate its youth on the use of computers and to interface with the Evangeline Parish School System. This will help the youth do homework, study for the LEAP test, and establish email contact with teachers.

The lab also will provide help to community adults who want to learn more about computers, assist them in small business start up and other technology-related tasks. The lab is offering needed technological and business help. The lab is constantly monitored and updated by the Ag Center technology team.

"The Disciple Baptist Church is grateful to Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center for the services rendered by Wilbert Harris and William Augustine," Jack said.