Zlín University is renovating the Academia center auditorium

Zlín - Tomas Bata University in Zlín (UTB) is renovating the Aula of the Academia Center in the building of the Faculty of Management and Economics on Mostní Street. The estimated costs are 65 million crowns, and the work is expected to be completed by July this year, said UTB spokesperson Petra Svěráková to ČTK today. The architectural study was prepared by architect and Zlín native Eva Jiřičná, who has already designed the Educational Complex for the university and is also the author of the nearby congress and university center.

"The main reason for closing the auditorium space was deficiencies in fire safety regulations. The interior spaces were significantly worn out, the technical condition was unsuitable, and there were outdated elements of audio-visual technology, lighting, shading, and acoustics for the current time," said UTB bursar Alexander Černý.

The Aula has served for more than 25 years. Graduations, ceremonial gatherings of the academic community, and conferences have been held here. New technical equipment, a connecting foyer, changing rooms, and sanitary facilities are now being constructed there. "The reconstruction concerns three separate spaces. In the auditorium itself, emphasis is placed on comfortable seating in every place in the auditorium, which previously was lacking in 40 percent of the seats, and top-notch conference technology," said Černý.

This year, the university is also planning to renovate the university dormitories behind the Zlín theater. The building has served nearly two hundred students for more than 50 years, the interior equipment is worn out, and the technological equipment of the building is beyond its lifespan. "These university dormitories also have a completely inadequate layout with shared sanitary facilities on each floor," said the director of dormitories and canteens at UTB, Michal Navrátil.

Work could begin this spring, and UTB will offer alternate accommodation to students. "The overall modernization of the interior equipment is being planned. The accommodation units will have their own sanitary facilities and a kitchenette. The building will also be adapted for people with specific needs," said the spokesperson. Costs will exceed 120 million crowns, with 60 percent covered by grants, and the rest paid for by the university.