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The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) has banned lecturers from scheduling classes as early as 6:00 a.m. and as late as 7:00 p.m.
The directive was contained in a statement signed by K. A. Bakare, the institution’s Registrar on Friday.
This follows demands from students protesting against irregular academic schedules that they say negatively impact their welfare and well-being.
According to the statement, all academic staff are to be reminded that official lecture hours remain between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. and warned against violations, including conducting classes during Lecture Free Week.
The statement emphasised the importance of keeping the week free from lectures and continuous assessments.
“The Vice-Chancellor would appreciate the understanding of both staff and students on these matters,” the letter said.
The directive aligns with student concerns over various academic scheduling issues.
The school’s Students’ Union had earlier condemned practices such as 7:00 a.m. classes, violations of Lecture Free Week, and lectures extending beyond 6:00 p.m., including Saturday classes.
“It is imperative that we remind the school community that the above are illegal practices within OAU and it’s disheartening to see these abnormalities become a norm,” the body said.
The students argued that these disruptions affect their academic balance and personal well-being, urging the administration to take immediate action.
“These abnormalities disrupt the balance between academics and other essential aspects of students’ lives and the scheduling lectures during lecture free week undermines its intended purpose and robs students of the opportunity to consolidate their learning,” the students said.
The Students’ Union called on the university and the Division of Student Affairs to act swiftly.
“We call on the university administration and the Division of Student Affairs to immediately address these concerns,” the union said, warning that failure to enforce the regulations would prompt further action.
“The Great Ife Students’ Union remains steadfast in our advocacy for policies that prioritise the welfare and academic success of all students and going forward, we will not hesitate to take decisive actions to protect the rights and interests of our members should normalcy not be restored,” it said.
Students were also encouraged to report violations, particularly through their class representatives.
