Management of Obafemi Awolowo University is considering a reduction of its recently announced three-week mid-semester break to one week following concerns over student welfare and disruptions caused by the decision.
The development follows a high-level meeting between the university authorities and student representatives to address issues arising from the abrupt announcement of the break, which left many students stranded.
As part of resolutions reached, students currently residing in campus hostels will be allowed to remain until the official resumption date. The decision is aimed at easing the burden on those unable to secure alternative accommodation at short notice.
The management also assured that essential services, including water and electricity, will continue to be provided in halls of residence occupied during the break period.
Addressing transportation challenges that initially sparked protests, the university acknowledged the difficulties faced
by students and pledged to improve mobility by deploying additional buses within the campus.On the duration of the break, management indicated that a proposal to reduce it to one week would be presented before the University Senate for consideration.
Regarding the planned renovation of Awolowo Hall, authorities clarified that no work has commenced and assured that proper notice and arrangements would be made before any displacement of students.
The break was earlier announced following protests over transportation bottlenecks and welfare concerns, which escalated into disruptions across major access routes within the campus.
Students had previously staged a 72-hour lecture boycott in mid-April, citing delays, long queues, and restricted movement linked to recent changes in the campus transport system.
University officials said the measures under review are part of efforts to restore normalcy and ensure a more conducive environment for academic activities.
