By Ajayi Oluwatomisin-
The University of Lagos has solicited for more funds to be provided to all higher institutions throughout the country with the aim of encouraging and promoting online learning.
The virtual learning platform was adopted by various higher institutions across the country following the covid-19 pandemic, but with varying degrees of success as some institutions such as; Obafemi Awolowo University and University of Ilorin had to ultimately revert to the conventional physical teaching method after an initial attempt at the virtual learning platform, while some institutions like the University of Lagos proceeded to utilize this platform for the remainder of the first semester, but not without some challenges.
The Vent Republic correspondent reports that this call was made by the Deputy vice chancellor, Research and Academics of the University of Lagos; Professor Oluwole Familoni while presenting the University’s scorecard for the2019/2020 First Semester Online Lectures and Examinations.
Prof. Familoni told journalists present at the press conference held at the University’s Senate Chamber that the e-learning has become a viable platform to conduct large examinations while avoiding large gathering, minimizing paper works and it’s attendant costs as well as avert health hazards to students, staff and other stake holders which could arise via physical contact.
Analyzing the virtual examinations conducted during the first semester window, the deputy Vice-Chancellor stated that a total of 13,735 students took the University’s postgraduate qualifying examinations while 19,386 students took the University’s Post UTME screening test.
He also added that all 100 and 200 level students of the University numbering a161,500, took their first semester examinations online, the 48 visually impaired students of the University had theirs at the Distance Learning institute E-Resource Center of the University while students in 300,400 and 500 levels were scheduled for physical examinations in compliance with covid-19 protocols.
The Vent republic can also confirm the statement of the Professor noting that tremendous efforts and resources have been channeled into improving the University’s ICT infrastructure and internet connectivity across campus. Proctors were made available during the online examinations to ensure it’s integrity, Students were also provided with between 3.5 to 10 gigabytes of data for their examinations. These expenses he said, consumed a huge part of the University’s limited resources.
