The Nation Newspaper

Category: Campus Life

  • Book for launch

    The stage is set for the official launch of a book, The perfect scholar, authored by Mr. Jimoh Braimoh, a first-class graduate of French, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State.

    Jimoh said the book was aimed at helping students improve their academic performances in biblical and practical ways.

    “The ideas in the book are proven, tested and practical. With hindsight and the benefits of divine grace, I employed some of the techniques laid out in this book to excel as an undergraduate in this university. And I am confident anybody can apply these ideas to improve their academic life,” he stated.

    Students who spoke with CAMPUSLIFE said the book would be helpful to all categories of students who were serious about achieving academic excellence.

  • Students’ unionism set to return to UNILAG

    The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof Rahamon Ade Bello, last Thursday, inaugurated members of the Constitution Drafting Committee of the university’s Students Union Government at the Senate Chamber. The event was attended by the institution’s Counsellor, Mrs J.A. Asiwaju; Deputy Dean of Student’s Affairs, Dr A.K. Adebayo; Dr Lukumon Adeoti, Dr Virgy Onyene and Dr Dele Ashiru.

    According to the chairman of the committee, the drafting process would begin with sensitisation programme in the university community and a workshop that would be held where papers would be presented by former students leaders in the university.

    Speaking at the inauguration, Dr Dele Ashiru, Political Science department, advised the members of the committee to see the job as a call to public service.

    Elections for the post of Vice-Chairman and Chief Whip were conducted with Olanrewaju Ogundipe emerging as winner while the Hall Representative of Honours Hall, Miss Taiwo was nominated unanimously as Chief Whip.

  • Make your vote count, council chief urges students

    Barely two weeks to the commencement of voters registration exercise slated for 15 August 2014, in Cross River State, chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Area, Hon. Joseph Itotup, has urged students to come out en masse to participate in the exercise. He said it was the only way to exercise their franchise in the 2015 general elections.

    Itotub spoke when students under the aegis of the National Association of Akamkpa Students (NAAS) visited him in his office last week. He said arrangements were on to ensure students in the area gain requisite skills acquisition to be self-employed.

    “We are making arrangements to make sure all youth from this area are trained in various skills and to give indigent students scholarship studying various professional courses in and outside the country. As the Chairman of this council, I would continue to create an enabling environment for you because I know we have prospective governors and law makers here. I assure you that very soon, I would release your bursary which would be increased to N20,000,” he said.

    The president of the association, Enyam Kelvin, said he was working hard for the welfare of the students in the various tertiary institutions in the country.

  • We are Muslims and we preach peace 

    It is surprising that a nation currently undergoing security challenges such as insurgency, kidnapping, militancy and the likes can be hurt from an intentional attempt to steer commotion by a supposedly guided, but misguided section of our nation. At a time like this when every government and non-governmental establishments are on red alert due to their safety, nothing should be the role of every responsible and conscious citizen of our beloved country than to help them in that regard.

    University of Ilorin is a well- known institution that gives zero tolerance to acts ranging from cultism, thuggery, immorality and insecurity among other forms of anti-social vices. Not only that, it has been playing a pivotal role in maintaining that every sections in the school is safe. Starting from the entrance of the school, that is few kilometers from the main school area, you would be subjected to a thorough search that doesn’t exclude your vehicle. Not only that, you would also identify yourself with a valid identity card which is your visa into the school compound. Mind you, the security alertness doesn’t only stop at that as you would constantly be under the watchful eyes of security personnel, both in uniform and mufti.

    It is, however, dumbfounding and uncalled for that a scrupulous microscopic part of the whole entity of Nigeria, who because of his/her personal interest in causing commotion can put pen to paper and write malicious information about the better by far university that has been the envy of all due to its excellence in all facets of academic and moral endeavors.

    Identified as ‘’Biola Azeez’’, he/she wrote in the Sunday, July 20, 2014 edition of the Nigerian Tribune that: “Religious fundamentalists invade UNILORIN. No, they are mere Muslim youths”. Nothing can justify this lackadaisical attitude than the fact that whoever he/she is, his/her intention is to disrupt the peaceful coexistence that is being enjoyed by adherents of both Islam and Christianity in the university and the country at large. Apart from the fact that the university has an interreligious council that takes care of all affairs that affects faithful of both religions, it has made sure that the dress codes, as stipulated by any religion is practiced by its adherents without molestation, as no religion supports lewd and immoral dressing. This is just to mention a few.

    An act that can be judged as the peak of treason and conspiracy one does against his/ her country is exemplified in the contents of the said write-up, as it is based on an erroneous investigation. Therein, he /she quoted the Chief Imam of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Abdul Ganiyy Oladosu. On inquiry from him, he was not aware of such development. The imam, who was utterly surprised on hearing the new development, blatantly refuted the claim has he said no one has asked him about things like that.

    Furthermore, the writer proceeded in launching an offensive attack on the image of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Unilorin Branch, whose headquarters is situated inside the  central mosque in the school, by stating that membership are been called for therein. Just a visit to the central mosque would convince the doubting Thomas that the Muslim students association that is being castigated preaches nothing but the pristine Islam that is being sent by Allah through the prophet (S.A.W). It is, therefore, pertinent to note that MSSN doesn’t fraternize, for all Muslim students on campus are automatic members of the society.

    On the issue of cutting of trousers and forbidding taking pictures, the writer, who succeeded in painting the picture the bad way, as that has been the norms of some journalists against the doctrines of Islam, should be aware that it is the tradition of the prophet that the trousers of the male should not exceed the ankles. Nobody can refute that fact as it has been so since the advent of Islam. Same thing applies to the taking of pictures as scholars of Islam frown against that act. Meanwhile, the picture in question is that of human beings.

    However, if the writer doesn’t know the meaning of fundamentalism, he/she might get the 7th edition of the Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary which puts the meaning as: ‘’the practice of following very strictly, the basic rules and teachings of any religion’’. A person with the right control of English grammar would not dispute the fact that, according to the definition of fundamentalism, that one who refrains from the practice of fundamental principles of any religion is out of such religion.

    Your being a Muslim is, however, the practice of its fundamental principle. There is a distinct difference between insurgency and fundamentalism. I hope the writer gets that well.

    In conclusion, the general public should be aware of people like Biola Azeez, as they are agents of destruction who find joy in disrupting the peaceful coexistence of any setting. This, however, states that the accusation leveled against the school, the Muslim community and the Muslim students’ society on campus is baseless and can lead to a fracas among innocent people, if the information gets into wrong hands. We are Muslims and we preach peace so that our nation that is bound in freedom, peace and unity would not be divided because of the personal propagation of a propaganda that can lead to a lot of brouhaha.

  • Oyo College adopts e-voting

    In what appeared to be an innovation in state-owned institutions in Oyo State, the college has organised the first e-voting for aspirants in the Students’ Union Government (SUG).

    The election, which started at 9.00am at the college’s ICT Centre, had members of  past management team in attendance, including 22 observers, electoral committee members, election monitoring team, men of the State Security Services (SSS), security operatives and polling agents of the candidates.

    The observers, monitoring team and electoral committee who were drawn from students, lecturers and administrative staff lauded the initiative of the school management on the adoption of electronic voting system. Some of the students after casting their votes also praised the Provost, Prof. Gbemiga Adewale for the introduction of electronic system of voting in the college.

    Joseph Oluyemi Deborah, a student of Animal Health and Production Technology Department, described Prof Gbemiga Adewale as a man of vision who was committed to students’ welfare.

    Another student, Sukurat Aminu Titilope, described the electronic system of voting as a fast, efficient and 21st century-compliant.

    An electoral observer,  Mr Gbolahan Oyelere, Ag. Head of Agricultural Extension Programme, said the voting system was peaceful, free and fair, void of rancour and hooliganism which was evident in the orderly conduct of the election.

    At the end of the election, Hassan Are Opeyemi of Animal Health Technology, HND II, emerged president, after polling 364 votes to defeat Olaide Oladipupo Lateef who had 331 votes.

    Adewale praised the efforts of the officials for the success of the election, urging students to support their leaders.

    Other winners included Mary Awoyemi, Vice president; Ridwan Ogunsola Olalekan, Financial Secretary; Ololade Adeagbo, General Secretary; Biliamin Mustapha, Assistant General Secretary; Mujeeb Adegbenro, Sports Director I; Oluwaseun Aderonke, Social Director I, Temitope Bennett, Social director II, Issac Emmanuel, Public Relations Officer; Atinuke Kayode, Treasurer; Joseph Adeyemi, Auditor.

  • Education as tool against insurgency

    Drawing from mankind’s experience with wars and violence, with special regard to Nigeria’s current horrid security challenges, never had the need to provide quality education, especially for the girl-child by government received earsplitting support than now.

    Proponents of education for the Nigerian child maintain that it promotes knowledge skills and values that will bring about behavioural changes that will enable children, youths and adults to embrace peaceful means of resolving conflicts.

    The current state of insecurity in the country orchestrated by the Boko Haram insurgents seems to give impetus to the massive support which the crusade for education for every Nigerian child is receiving, as views are that education imbues in one refined lifestyle. This view which sees education as the bedrock of development in any society is, seemingly incontrovertible.

    For instance, if those who joined the Boko Haram; the rampaging Islamist sect that is totally opposed to anything western education had been imbued with the values of education, they would not have taken up arms against the state, unleashing indescribable mayhem on her.

    They also would not take bestial pleasure in killing their fellow mankind. They would also have been taught that there are alternative means of settling scores or grievances. They will accord dignity to human life, knowing that they have no right to take any life which they never created. They agree to embark on suicide mission because they were brainwashed and received unconstructive indoctrination.

    The worrisome destruction of lives and properties in the Northeast geo-political zone and other parts of the country is so massive so much so that one wonders if there is any hope for those communities and people affected by the insurgency.

    Based on the above, one is convinced that genuine commitment to provision of quality education for all, especially children, would eliminate ignorance which often fuels violence.

    Education is a tool for social justice as well as a fundamental driver of economic development. This explains why governments, the world over, show serious commitment to the provision of quality education for their citizens.

    Education is one of the most important factors that not only sustain the culture, including the democratic principles, but also empowers an individual and determines his status in a competitive world.

    Some of the aims of education are mental, physical, psychological and emotional development of the human person.

    Education for the Nigerian child seeks preparing him for full and happy life which, in turn, makes him useful to himself and his society; as it moulds the individual for a better future.

    Education inculcates in the child the values of national consciousness and unity, right type of principles and attitudes which allow survival of both the individual and the society. It also trains the mind of the child to enable him to think for himself and independently take decisions on issues. The aim is to eradicate illiteracy from the society.

    Over and above this, education ensures that the child acquires appropriate skills, ability and competence that will make it possible for him to earn his living in order to be comfortable and contribute, in reasonable manner, to the development of his society.

    Our leaders should show greater commitment towards ensuring that the country’s future is guaranteed. This they could do through formulation of policies and programmes that make education of her citizens a right and not a privilege. We hold this view because the state or society is the chief beneficiary of education when its enlightened and patriotic citizens, through hard work, enhance its growth and development.

     

    Stella, 300-Level Accountancy, NOUN

  • ‘Catch the fun while it lasts’

    The open space in front of Hall 2 at the University of Benin (UNIBEN) is supposed to be a car park, but students’ frequent visits to the spot at night has turned it into a rendezvous of sorts for lovebirds and fun seekers, writes EDDY UWOGHIREN (200-Level Medicine).

    The Hall 2 Car Park at the University of Benin (UNIBEN) is beautiful at night. Visitors throng the spot, which is popularly called “Heartbeat of UNIBEN” to catch fun at night.

    In the morning, it hosts few activities. The sound of passing vehicles can be heard from a distance. Photographers are seen taking shots of the few students around.

    At sunset, the park is crowded and throbbing with activities. It becomes the rendezvous for fun seekers and lovebirds.

    The park is also an event centre, hosting campus fellowship meetings, seminars, cultural day celebrations and academic tutorials.

    At a dark spot, which stretches to Hall 3, students, usually in twos, hang around. Boys and girls hold hands, whispering sweet nothing into each other’s ear. The occasional presence of snakes and other harmful creatures does not deter them from catching fun. “Catch the fun while it lasts” is the refrain among students.

    “We are catching fun,” a student, who simply gave his name as Joseph, said when this reporter sought to know what he was doing at the park at 11:32pm.

    At the park entrance is an array of almond trees, called Ebelebo in UNIBEN parlance. The trees give shade to lovers.

    A few metres away is June 12 building. The aroma of toast egg and bread called Mischai in UNIBEN oozes from every angle of the building. Pots are always steaming with Indomie noodles and fried eggs. Fun seekers stay on queue to buy the food.

    To some students, there is nothing wrong in unwinding at the Car Park, Ebelebo trees or the June 12 building at night. “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy,” said Moses Edafe, a regular visitor.

    He added: “All we do here is to come and catch fun at night; we rekindle old flames and renew friendship. Even you, as a medical student (pointing to this reporter), know that it is good to catch fun and relax. The fun here opens up our brain for better assimilation when we go to read at night.”

    Moses’ girlfriend, who was with him when CAMPUSLIFE met him, said there was nothing wrong with visiting the lovers’ spot at night. According to her, all they do there is “networking” and to catch fun with friends.

    Etinosa Obazee, another student, frowned at erotic activities in the park at night, saying a serious student who has loads of academic task to accomplish would not spend a second at the lovers’ spot at night.

    “Why don’t you (pointing to this reporter) also go there with a lady at night?” he quizzed.

    Nelson Okonkwo, an Agriculture student, disagreed with Etinosa’s view, asking how many students attending classes daily doing well in their academics? “Visit the faculties notice boards and you will be amazed to discover that the so-called serious students are not doing well academically,” he said.

    He added: “Don’t mind the people castigating us. They are the poor students who don’t have money to spend and cannot survive the competition on campus. If given the opportunity to go and relax at lovers’ spot, they would grab it with both hands.”

    A graduate of UNIBEN, who gave his name as Momodu, said the notion that unserious students visit fun spots at night was biased and unjustifiable.

    Momodu said: “During my stay in UNIBEN, I visited many of those spots, especially the Ebelebo tree. Those moments keep playing in my mind. I have forgotten some of what my lecturers said in class but the moments at the spot are still fresh. It was under Ebelebo tree I meet my girlfriend whose father works in a big company in Lagos. I have been called to submit job application there. If I was not a visitor of fun spot, how could I have met her and got this kind of help through her father?”

    He said a friend of his, who graduated with a first class, was a visitor at the park on Saturday nights. “After we caught fun, we returned to our books,” Momodu added.

    A 300-Level Pure Physics student, who gave his name as Osagie, said it was not a bad idea to visit the park. “It depends on what one is going there to do,” he said.

    A fellowship president said: “Why will two unmarried students be holding hands in a park at night? The Bible frowns at it. Those students are deceiving themselves.”

    A medical doctor said relaxation is important if one must remain alive. He said: “Too much work and stress can result in mental health problems, memory failure and even heart disorders. People must create enough time relax to stay healthy.”

  • Award in LAUTECH

    Award in LAUTECH

    All is set for the 2014 OSCAR Awards at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, organised by Oscar Nigeria and Ecstasy International.

    The event will hold on August 22.

    The country representative of Ecstasy International, Mr John Ayodeji, in a statement, said the event was aimed at recognising students, groups, and brands at the institution that have distinguished themselves.

    The organisers promised that the programme would be exciting, adding that notable figures and brands  would receive awards.

    Winners from universities will later compete against one another in December at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos where several A-list artistes and comedians are billed to add colour to the event.

  • Ondo students get parliament

    Ondo students get parliament

    New leaders of the National Association of Ondo Students (NAOSS) have been inaugurated.

    The event took place at the NAOSS Secretariat on Ilesa Road, Akure, the state capital.

    Speaking at the event, Chairman of the scholarship board Mr Dayo Awude said he was happy to be in the students’ midst.

    “I encourage this newly inaugurated Senate to be more pro-active and progressive in its parliamentary resolutions so as to contribute its quota to the development of the state,” he stated.

    He reiterated his commitment to students’ welfare, adding that he would always listen to the demands of students.

    The Special Assistant to the Governor on Youths, Mr Tayo Adenikinju, praised the leadership of the new Senate for their maturity in tackling challenges, pledging his support to the Senate.

    The Senate President, Fagbemigun Israel, from the Obafemi Awolowo University, said the students would play their role in contributing to the development of the state.

    “The Senate has not come to witch-hunt any executive, but will not tolerate any iota of administrative negligence or irresponsibility from its executive. All acts capable of tarnishing the name of the association will be duly checked and punishment will be placed where needed.” He added.

    Israel expressed his readiness to work with the State Government in the interest of students, saying that the welfare of students would be primary in his agenda.

    The second phase of the event took place in the official lodge of Governor Femi Mimiko, where the senate paid a congratulatory visit to the governor on the announcement of the new federal polytechnic to be located at Ile-Oluji. The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on youth, Evangelist Olumuyiwa Asagunla, received the delegation.

    The students thanked the Governor for the prompt payment of their bursary despite the drastic fall in the federal allocation to the state.

  • 19 bag scholarship

    Nineteen Nigerian students have been awarded scholarship to do their Master’s in Australia next year, the Australia High Commissioner to Nigeria, Jonathan Richardson, has said.

    The scholarship is a programme of the Australian government.

    Richardson spoke at the launch of the Northwest and Northeast zones of the Australia Alumni Association in Nigeria in Kaduna. He said between 2010 and 2014, more than 200 students benefited, including 86 postgraduate scholarships.

    The envoy said the scholarship, which offers both long and short term study and professional development opportunities to citizens of developing countries, is aimed at providing enhanced leadership skill, knowledge and technical expertise for students to work in strategic organisations driving development.

    Richardson, who represented by the Third Secretary of the Commission, Mr Matthew Mechan, said a total of 923 Nigerians are stusying in Australian universities and vocational education school.

    He said: “We want to encourage Nigerians interested in studying abroad to consider Australia as an option, given the strong record and high quality of our universities and tertiary institutions.” He added that another scholarship window will open in September.

    He added: “Australian Scholarship Award covers a wide range of areas but is focusing on disciplines relevant to building government capacity including agriculture, food security, extractive industry, infrastructure, health and public policy.”

    The co-ordinator of the zone’s Australia Alumni in Nigeria, Dr Zainab Mohammed, said the establishment of the association was necessary to build influence and contract, and to facilitate contact between the alumni and Australia in pursuance of developmental goals.

    “We want to encourage Nigerians interested in studying aboard to consider Australia as an option, given its strong record and high quality tertiary institutions and to also take advantage of the scholarship,” she said.

    In his goodwill message, Kaduna State Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Thot, praised the Australian government for its magnanimity and educational support for Nigerian students.