University of Khartoum leading role in scientific research and development through a number of specialized research centers and institutes: University of Khartoum Library, known as the "Main Library," is one of the biggest and oldest libraries in universities in Sudan and Africa. The library building represents the historical and iconic heritage of U. of K. In addition to the Main library, there are small libraries in each faculty and institute as well as Altegany Almahi library for postgraduate students and Sudan Library. University of Khartoum has an Information Technology and Communication Center which is responsible for developing and managing of the ICT infrastructure
Siege of Khartoum stores dwindled and starvation began to set in for both the garrison and the civilian population. Communication was kept through couriers while Gordon also kept in contact with the Mahdi, who rejected his offers of peace and to lift the siege. On 16 September an expedition sent from Khartoum to Sennar was defeated by the Mahdists, which resulted in the death of over 800 garrison troops at Al Aylafuh. By the end of the month, the Mahdi moved the bulk of his army to Khartoum, more than doubling the number already besieging it. As of 10 September 1884, the civilian