OAU Freshers Fume Over Overcrowded Classroom and Poor Facilities

 Olanrewaju Lawal

Upon arriving at the BOO B lecture theatre for a Physics class, attention was drawn to the neighboring BOO C theatre, where about 600 first-year students were crammed into a hall meant for only 350. The excitement of these students from the faculties of Technology, Science, Agriculture, and Environmental Design and Management quickly faded in the sweltering heat of an overcrowded space.

Inside, many students had to stand or sit on the floor due to a lack of chairs. The air conditioning units struggled against the heat, making it hard for students to pay attention to their lectures. “Learning here wasn’t just a challenge; it was a battle—one fought with sweat, patience, and dwindling hope,” said one student.

Michael, a Mechanical Engineering student, expressed disappointment: “I had high hopes for this university. I imagined a stimulating environment, not this oppressive heat on my first day. It’s tough to understand what the lecturer is saying when you can barely breathe.” 

Similarly, Oyindamola, an Agricultural Engineering student, voiced frustration with the administration's planning: “The administration should have planned better... This isn’t just uncomfortable; it’s unfair.”

Concerns about the university’s ability to handle its growing number of students are evident. While Obafemi Awolowo University prides itself on being “Africa’s Most Beautiful Campus,” its beauty is overshadowed by problems that affect learning. The recent collapse of an amphitheater serves as a serious reminder of the risks of neglecting necessary maintenance.

Students also face challenges with restroom facilities across campus. Many restrooms are in poor condition, with broken toilets and constant water shortages. This leads to unsanitary conditions that complicate student life.

The state of classrooms is equally concerning. Many lack basic facilities like seating and working fans. For instance, HB Room 403 often leaves students questioning: “Is OAU truly Africa's Most Beautiful Campus?” The poor condition of these facilities raises doubts about the university's commitment to providing quality education.

Students urge the university’s management to rethink its priorities. While maintaining the campus's aesthetic appeal is important, it should not come at the cost of addressing fundamental needs. The Great Ife student body calls for urgent repairs to restrooms and updates to outdated classrooms.