Inside OAU: The Continuous Displeasure of Students with the ICT Centre

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By Omotara Adesina and Abdul-Hakeem Akiyode
ICT, the centre for computer-based tests, has received some complaints in recent times. Speaking with students, we sought to uncover their reviews, and it was understood that the proceedings for the exams conducted have not been great in some aspects.

Esther, a Part 4 student, shared her concerns, stating that the supervisors communicate loudly, disrupting students while they take the tests. This, in turn, reduces students' performance on the examination.

Another student, named Hannah, informed our correspondent about the delays before being allowed into the examination center. Due to the large number of students enrolled in certain courses scheduled for CBT and the availability of only one venue, students are forced to stand in the weather, rain or shine, for an exam that is unlikely to exceed 30 minutes. Buttressing her point, she mentioned that after being delayed due to the large numbers involved, the supervisors still do not provide a noise-free examination environment.


Discussing with another student, a male named Lekan mentioned that while he was not a victim of noise, he had experienced delays. It was a sunny day, and standing in the sun made him forget much of what he had read that day.

A conversation with another student revealed that, while she herself was not subject to such issues, she sympathized with the supervisors. She further mentioned her reasons. CBT exams take time, and, in her words, they are human; therefore, the energy put forth in the first hour will differ later on.

Further discussions with more students focused on the delays outside and the lack of shade, which exposed them to the weather, whether sun or rain.

Welfare Director Weighs In 
Speaking with Samuel Busari, the Welfare Director of the Great Ife Students' Union, he mentioned that two current issues relate to bad experiences: limited computer systems and the fact that not all systems are in good condition.

He further stated that the queue is a result of the limited number of computer systems available. The viable solution he proposed was for the school to improve on this. Lastly, he cited examples of students being logged out during exams and said that if the school is not willing to acquire more computer systems, they should work on the existing ones.

A number of our students fail to adhere to the provided instructions - Professor Odedire 
In a conversation with the Dean, Division of Students' Affairs, Professor Odedire, he provided clarity regarding the status of the computers in the hall, stating, "The CBT center has two halls with at least 700 functioning systems." He further noted that the University conducts regular updates, repairs, and replacements every semester in preparation for continuous assessments and examinations.  


Addressing the large number of students that require access to the halls, Professor Odedire explained that class sizes exceeding 1,000 students are divided into manageable groups of two or more. This division is stated to ensure proper seating arrangements to minimise lengthy waiting times for students.  

He also stated, "The University is working on the provision of a covered area for students who have to wait in turn when necessary."  

Regarding system shutdowns or student logouts, the Dean clarified that these issues are not primarily caused by the computer systems or CBT software. Instead, he pointed out student incompetence as a significant factor. He explained, "A number of our students fail to adhere to the provided instructions, which are disseminated to course coordinators for student distribution."  

Professor Odedire further explained that incorrect login details and repeatedly clicking the login button can result in logouts during examinations. He pointed out that some students inadvertently log themselves out by clicking the logout button before completing their exams. "In such instances, the technical personnels typically provide the Students with renewed access," he stated. 

"Some students may also fail to submit their exams correctly, leading to a zero score. Despite these challenges, the CBT team consistently strives to address and resolve any issues that arise during examinations," he explained.  

The Dean concluded by emphasising the importance of students seeking help appropriately, stating, "The critical thing is for our students to learn to reach out to appropriate quarters when in need of help in a courteous and civilized manner so they can get help whenever situations arise."



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