By Olasunkanmi Olajide & Olaoye Oyewole
Students of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, embarked on their First Semester Examinations amidst a backdrop of meticulous planning, in spite of the daunting challenge of the rainstorm that ravaged the University, last week.
In an exclusive interview with FUNAAB Bulletin at the 250-Capacity Computer Laboratory, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Prof. Olukayode Akinyemi, underscored the University’s unwavering commitment to ensuring a seamless examination process.
Prof. Akinyemi, also the Chairman of the Examination Committee reassured stakeholders that the University Management had preemptively addressed potential challenges, with the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde spearheading efforts that furnished the Examination Committee with all necessary resources.
Despite setbacks caused by the recent rainstorm, which inflicted damage on campus buildings, Prof. Akinyemi affirmed that prompt repairs had been executed to ensure that the examination schedule was not disrupted.
Highlighting the University’s proactive stance, Prof. Akinyemi revealed strategic measures implemented to mitigate power outages during electronic examinations (e-examination), disclosing the deployment of standby generators and ample fuel reserves to power all e-examination centres, coupled with investments in additional computing infrastructure to accommodate the surge in demand.
According to him, the e-centres were permanently on Generators as they could not rely on the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC).
He stated further that over 5,000 students were participating in the e-examinations, noting the University’s adaptability and commitment to innovation.
Besides, Prof. Akinyemi emphasised the comprehensive training provided to Lecturers, Invigilators, and Non-Teaching staff, stressing the importance of ethical conduct throughout the examination process.
He, therefore, commended all the stakeholders for their collective diligence in upholding academic integrity.
In a separate chat with the Chairman of the Timetable and Examination Committee (TIMTEC), Engr. (Dr.) Pius Dada who hailed the smooth progression of the examinations, attributed the success to the University Management’s proactive measures in acquiring necessary facilities.
Dr. Dada expressed gratitude for the positive outcomes stemming from the Webinar sessions conducted for invigilators, students, and other stakeholders before the start of the examinations.
He noted the University’s relentless stance against examination malpractices and warning of severe consequences for any breaches.
Echoing these sentiments, Prof. Olusegun Idowu, a member of the Examination Committee, appreciated the Vice-Chancellor’s visionary leadership, noting his foresight in anticipating and addressing potential disruptions.
According to him, the Air-conditioners in the e-Centres were working optimally with high comfort for students in the Centres, which would also improve the lifespan of the computer systems.
Prof. Idowu extended appreciation to College Deans, Heads of Departments, Invigilators, and Non-Teaching staff for their invaluable contributions to the examination process.
