OAU weighs waivers for extra year students amid suicide concerns

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OAU weighs waivers for extra year students amid suicide concerns

The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has announced plans to support struggling extra-year students by offering compassionate academic waivers. This decision follows a suicide attempt by a 200-level student facing academic challenges.

An internal memo dated November 1, 2024, and obtained by PUNCH Metro, revealed that the university’s Committee of Deans proposed the measure during a special meeting. The memo, signed by Deputy Registrar M.S. Oluwajoba, noted that the student, who had transferred from Pharmacy to Biology Education, attempted suicide on October 16 due to academic stress.

The university emphasized its commitment to creating an enabling environment for student support, urging staff and faculty to offer assistance. A previous circular had recommended that students with one or two outstanding courses required for graduation be allowed to graduate on compassionate grounds, provided it does not alter their degree classification.

OAU's spokesperson, Abiodun Olanrewaju, confirmed the decision, highlighting the need to prevent suicide stemming from academic pressure. “This move is to reduce suicide cases tied to academic stress, especially for final-year students delayed by just one or two courses,” he said.

While the decision is not yet official, sources within the university indicate it is a compassionate response to the rising mental health challenges among students.