I Stand for Students’ Rights — OAU Faculty of Education Rep

Adebimpe Oluwatofunmi

Bello AbdulHameed Bolaji is a Part 4 student of Religious Studies and Education at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU). He currently serves as an honourable representing the Faculty of Education in the GreatIfe Student Representative Council (SRC). In a recent interview, he shared his thoughts on campus politics, student challenges, and his role as a student leader.

When asked about the recent student ID card controversy on campus, Ridwan expressed full support for the student union’s protests. He explained that many students have been harassed outside the university because they lack proper identification. Even during CBT exams on campus, students are required to show ID, yet obtaining this ID is a stressful process. Students must print their course forms and get signatures from their heads of department, which Ridwan describes as “

stressful and uncalled for. Despite raising these concerns repeatedly with school management, no effective action was taken. He believes the protests were necessary to push the management to respond quickly.

Bello also highlighted several problems students face in the academic environment. He pointed out the poor condition of lecture theatres, with broken chairs, damaged tables, and no windows in some rooms. During the rainy season, some lecture halls get flooded. He also mentioned the poor state of toilets, which are often unsuitable for use. While some damage is caused by students, Ridwan insists that the school management should address these issues. He raised concerns about the halls of residence, noting that students face many challenges there too. For example, the recent borehole dug for Angola Hostel was funded by the Alumni Body, not the school. He urged the school management to work more closely with the alumni, who have the resources to help improve student facilities.

Bello also pointed out the problem of poor network coverage on campus, which makes it difficult for students to browse the internet in some areas. He called on the management to fix these issues to create a better learning environment.

As a student representative at the faculty level, Bello said his main focus is standing up for students’ rights and welfare. “Anything that students won’t benefit from, you won’t see me there,” he said. He described himself as a voice for the voiceless and a protector of the oppressed. His purpose is to fight for the interests of students in his faculty and across GreatIfe. Although he has done many things, he said the results of his efforts are visible even if not all can be mentioned.

Bello acknowledged the challenges of being both a student and a politician. He explained that sometimes his views differ from those of his colleagues, making it hard to convince them. “You want to be aggressive in fighting for something, but others say you must know when to fight and when not to,” he said. This requires patience and tact to get others to see his point of view.

He also gave special recognition to his colleagues in the student union. He praised members of the Student Union, executives at the faculty, department, and unit levels, and the SRC at all levels. “You’re doing well, but I urge you to do more and make our purpose felt and recognized,” he said.