By Little Spikes
Nothing that is happening in the University Campus is new as they are repeated issues students have always clamored about. From things and issues that look almost insignificant to those that are.
Your Inaugration as the 14th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan marks the beginning of another chapter in the history of Nigeria’s premier university. It is a moment of renewed expectations, heightened responsibilities and, perhaps more importantly, an opportunity to redefine the University’s place in the evolving landscape of higher education in Nigeria and in West Africa.
As you assume the mantle of leadership, you inherit not just an institution with a rich history and enviable reputation, but also the hopes, concerns and aspirations of thousands of students, members of staff, alumni and other stakeholders who look to the University for direction as a pacesetter in the world of education and research
In an open letter previously written by IndyPress to the Students Affairs, the letter made mention of issues and matters that arose in the University in 2025. Unfortunately, these issues are still persistent in the University from electricity to accommodation to student victimization. These are issues still reoccurring with even more issues to consider such as the continuous deforestation on campus.
While previous administration of Prof. Kayode Adebowale has done what they thought they could but still, more needs to be done. However, the University deserves a new dawn and a call to action for better innovation, work and student affairs.
Student Affairs
One of the greatest issues faced is on student affairs. The student affairs should be readily and consistently worked upon to increase the overall state of students.
Issues concerning student affairs; accommodation, health, transportation are very critical and need much consideration when decisions are being made in the University.
Electricity, water supply and other essential services
Constant electricity failure is another issues faced in the University. It is most recurring at Ring 5 axis. Electricity on campus can be very unstable especially during exam period. The education system is very dependent on Electricity; Gadgets students use for reading, studying and making research. Lectures are not out of the picture, almost all lecturers uses projectors for their slides during classes.
Electricity also affects the living conditions of students living on campus. Without electricity in halls of residence, there will equally be no water. With no water, students cannot cook, bath and even use the toilets.
Students’ welfare, accommodation and learning environment.
Student Welfarism is really important for an overall effective learning environment. It ensures a student friendly ecosystem that encourages learning.
Accomodation for returning students is not easy, the process is rigorous and still a large percentage still doesn’t get accomodation. The accomodation process doesn’t commence as early as supposed. Returning students don’t get rooms until fourth to sixth week after resumption which can be very discomforting.
For students who attempt private hostels, it is usually unaffordable with prices for rooms far above expectations. For others who chose to stay off campus, they are often cheated by house agents who bill then exorbitant prices.
Transportation
Transportation on campus should be regulated and monitored more. In recent times, the commercial vehicles in the University has been seen overcharging students for various destination routes. Sometimes, prices are raised without prior notice.
The road system on campus should also not be overlooked. There are roads on campus which are terrible and becoming unpliable as the days goes by.
Health Care
The health care system on campus really needs to be better. The Jaja clinic that attends to students health care needs is now more understaffed than ever before. This has affected the effeciency of the clinic while attending to students and most students now prefer buying drugs to visiting the clinic.
Related: Jaja Clinic: More Than a Decade of Concerns, What Has Changed?
Environmental Waste Management
Most dump sites in the University have become unbearable both for passersby and residents of such areas. The rate in which this dump sites are filled up doesn’t match the rate at which this dump sites are cleared and some are not even cleared at all for long period of time. Areas like Indy Hall, Zik Hall and remains a constant eye sore the student community from the overflowing dumps to the delay in the evacuation.
The state of infrastructure and maintenance across the university
The maintenance culture in the university is not impressive as new materials and equipment are not used properly and old ones are not replaced as at when due. The maintenance culture affects all from faculties to departments and to halls of residence. Infrastructure which can last longer are often misused or mishandled.
The state of infrastructure is to be worked on, more infrastructure should be made available and the overall infrastructure should be maintained.
Student Victimization
The University has on many occasions been guilty of student Victimization. Students should have freedom of speech and to express their thoughts.
Digital transformation and technological innovation
The Era for pen, paper and printed works has gone, the University system should be more digitally and technologically transformed. This is to equip the University with an easier, faster and more effective form of information based system.
Through this, Individuals can now access their information, make registration, update their student information without physically being present.
The Way Forward
The post of the Vice Chancellor is a legacy that goes beyond occupying the office. It is a legacy that makes the University more student inclusive. And as deliberations are made more about the University, the welfare of students should be prioritized. Students should be put first on the consideration list.
