When Guidance Fails: The Handbook Gap and UI’s New Academic Landscape

By: Oladele Robiat

The University of Ibadan’s transition from a 4.0 to a 5.0 grading system, along with the revamp of course codes, has introduced significant changes to the academic landscape. While these reforms aim to align with global standards, they have unknowingly increase the gap between freshers and staylites. New students find themselves struggling with unfamiliar academic system, often without adequate guidance from their senior counterparts.

“I’ve faced a lot of challenges, especially with the elective courses” Ayoola Racheal, a 100 level student of the department of History shared her story.

Compounding this challenge is the limited accessibility of the student handbook. Although the student handbook is now available on the school portal, many are still unaware of its existence. This essential resource, which should provide clarity on course registration requirements, grading criteria, and academic policies, remains elusive for many. Without it, freshers are left to navigate the complexities of university life in isolation, lacking both institutional support and peer mentorship.

“I believe it will be easier if we have access to the handbook” a 100 level student of the department of Physics aired similar thought.

The disconnection is further worsened by the fact that staylites, having been educated under the previous system, may not be fully equipped to guide freshers through the struggle of the new academic framework. This generational academic gap calls for comprehensive orientation programs and accessible resources to bridge the gap between the students.

“Well, the change in the academic system affects especially during the tutorials we give them. You know, the new courses and all, we personally didn’t do them, so it takes midnight candle burning to go through materials online as tutors,” Ovie Confidence, a 300 level of the department of History lamented the ordeal she always go through as an academic tutor.

To address these challenges, the university should prioritise the dissemination of the accessibility of the student handbook and also implement mentorship program that will make the freshers familiar with the new system. Such initiatives would foster a more connected academic community and ensure that all students, regardless of their year, have the tools and support necessary to navigate through their stay on campus.

While academic reforms are essential for progress, it’s crucial to ensure that all students are adequately supported during this transition. By addressing the current disconnect through accessible student handbook and mentorship, the University of Ibadan can uphold its commitment to academic excellence and student welfare.