266th Inaugural Lecture To Be Delivered By Prof. Funmi Togonu-Bickersteth
Unknown July 31, 2014 4 Comments
The University’s 266th Inaugural lecture titled “AGING IS NOT AN EMERGENCY: PREPARING FOR NEW REALITIES OF AGING IN NIGERIA” by Prof. Funmi Togonu-Bickersteth, holds on Tuesday, 12th August, 2014 at the Oduduwa Hall, by 5:00pm.
Professor Funmi Togonu-Bickersteth is a professor of Psychology and Gerontology, Obafemi Awolowo University.
Predegree Top News
BREAKING NEWS: Application Form For OAU 2014/2015 Predegree Programme Is Out!
At last, The Application has started.
Admission into the Pre-degree Programme 2014/2015 Session
Applications are hereby invited from suitably qualified candidates for admission into the Pre-Degree Programme for 2014/2015 Session.
Eligible Candidates must possess minimum of 5 Credits in 5 subjects at a maximum of two sittings including English Language (for ALL Courses), Mathematics (for Science-based and Social Science-based Courses) and Literature-in-English (for Law).
The programme normally runs for two (2) contact periods both within nine (9) calendar months.
Available Subject Combinations
Options/Fields
Subject Combinations
Arts Government/Literature in English/Religious Studies (GLR)
Economics/ Government/Literature in English (EGL)
Biological Sciences Biology/Chemistry/Physics (BCP)
Physical Sciences Chemistry/ Mathematics/ Physics (CMP)
Geography/ Mathematics/ Physics (GMP)
Social Sciences Economics/Government/Mathematics (EGM)
Mathematics/Geography/Economics (MGE)
Candidates are to note that the above listed subject combinations meet the requirements (as applicable) for admission into ALL Degree Programmes in Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.
Pay the Application fee of ₦15,000.00 through e-Tranzact Payment Platform at any branch of First Bank, Skye Bank, Wema Bank or UBA Plc Nationwide. A Receipt which contains a Receipt Number and Confirmation Order Number will be given to you at the Bank. (Please note that Bank charges apply and must be paid).
Alternatively, you can also pay the application fee through Interswitch Webpay Platform using your ATM or Debit Card.
Go to OAUCDL website: (www.oaucdl.edu.ng) and Click on: "2014/2015 Pre-Degree Application" and read the Instruction carefully. Create your account by clicking on "Apply Now!". You are to supply valid username, password, email address and other required information.
After creating the Account, login back into your Account with your username and password.
Click on your preferred Payment Method (either e-tranzact or Interswitch Webpay).
Fill the online Application Form and upload your recent passport photograph. The passport photograph must meet the following specifications:
The passport photograph must be coloured with white background (Black and white photograph is not acceptable).
The passport must be recent (not earlier than 3 Months before the time of the application) and the size should not be more than 100KB.
After filling the form, logout and keep your username and password safe. (Save your Username and Password on your Phone so as not to forget). Keep checking the website from time to time for the actual date of the entrance examination. In the meantime, you can take the practice examination to get familiar with Computer-based test.
Applicants are to note that the 2014/2015 Pre-degree entrance exam will be computer-based. You are hereby advised to familiarise yourself with the basic use of computer.
2014/2015 Pre-Degree Applicants are advised to to be checking our website from time to time for the actual date of the Entrance Exam and other relevant information.
All candidates are required to register for 2015 UTME during the Programme.
All Candidates are required to use valid e-mail addresses and PERSONAL Telephone Numbers.
The forms must be filled and submitted on-line either immediately or within 2 weeks of accessing the website. No downloaded or printed copies of forms will be accepted.
Applicants are to note that 2014/2015 Pre-Degree Entrance Exam holds at Ile-Ife Centre only.
Candidates are advised to follow the Application Instructions very carefully and ensure they select the Correct SUBJECT COMBINATION. Failure to do so may adversely affect the Candidate.
All candidates should note that OAUCDL HAS NOT AUTHORISED any person(s) or agent(s) to sell application forms on its behalf. Application is strictly on-line.
2014/2015 Pre-Degree Application will close on Friday, 29th August, 2014.
It is mandatory for all candidates to keep checking the website from time to time to know the Entrance Examination Date and also to print the Exam Slip.
Start your Application Now
D.I. Ocan (Mrs)
Centre for Distance Learning,
Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife
If you encounter any problem during application or you are not clear about something, please ask questions. We will answer all your questions.
Campus Gists Top News
University Management Issues Release On The Deadly Ebola Virus
Unknown July 31, 2014 1 Comment
The attention of the university community is hereby drawn to the detection of the deadly Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Nigeria.
The highly contagious EVD which is currently ravaging some west African countries could easily be spread through contact with infected persons. The virus could also be transmitted to uninfected persons through contacts with bats. In view of the colonization of the university estate by migratory fruit bats, members of the University community and their dependants are hereby strongly advised to avoid all form of contacts with bats. Specifically, members are advised to avoid touching, holding or eating bats. It is also advisable to avoid pathways through which one may come intact with the faeces/droppings of the bats.
Members of the community are advised to promptly and without delay report cases of sudden onset fever, muscle pain, general body weakness and any form of bleeding at the Medical and Health Services Centre for immediate attention.
"OAU Peeps" Administration Membership Form Now Out
Unknown July 31, 2014 Leave a Reply
OAU Peeps News Agency is happy to announce to all Great Ife students that our recruitment exercise has finally started. This massive recruitment will birth the Pen Pushers that will anchor this lovely Blog.
The recruitment exercise may not last as long as you may think because we have a fixed number of administrative members we can accommodate for this quarter.
1.) You must be a student of Obafemi Awolowo University
2.) You must be passionate to affect the outfit.
MEMBERSHIP FEE: Free
1.) Opportunity to build up your writing skills and gather experience in the field of Journalism.
2.) You will be a certified and registered Campus Journalist under the ages of Association of Campus Journalist, Obafemi Awolowo University.
3.) Regular incentives to spur members to perform.
4.) Award of Excellence to outstanding Crew members.
5.) Opportunity to be a pioneering member of the Executive Team of the promising online News Agency.
These and many more!!!
August 17, 2014 by 11:59pm
Complete your Application Form by clicking this link or By Clicking the 'Join Crew' link at the top of this page.
National News Predegree Top News
Pre-Degree: Application For 2014/2015 Session Is Yet To Comence
As we continue to receive numerous calls and messages from potential aspirants asking if the 'form' for OAU Predegree for 2014/2015 Academic Session is out, we want to confirm authoritatively to you that APPLICATION HAS NOT COMMENCED.
There are many fraudsters online & offline claiming application ends soon and telling you to send money urgently to a particular account number so that you can get it. All these are scams. A session of the programme just ended 2 weeks ago and there is no way application can start that soon.
Moreover, Obafemi Awolowo University at the moment still have a deficit of two sessions, how then can they start to admit those that will be vying for the potential third so soon? We charge every potential aspirants not to be deceived by anything they see online stating application has started or it has closed.
It is worthy to also point out to you the Centre for Distance Learning which is in charge of the OAU Pre-Degree programme will only relate to the public via her ONLY official website. Applications also are not done by proxy of agents or Group. This is also to inform the General Public that OAU-CDL HAS NOT authorized anyone/agent to collect payment or send SMS to its applicants/students on its behalf.
We urge every persons who will be applying for the programme to use this period to start preparing for the entrance test while they wait for application to commence.
If you are still in doubt over one thing or the other, feel free to ask your questions here.
Man From Nigeria Tested For Ebola In The UK
A man has been tested for ebola in the uk – increasing fears over the threat posed to Britain from the deadly disease.
He was tested at a hospital in Birmingham after arriving back in the uk from nigeria via Paris.
Fortunately the man was given the all-clear after tests, the Daily Mail reports, but the scare has sharpened focus on the possible spread of the virus to Britain.
Meanwhile, doctors fear ebola victim Patrick Sawyer may have sparked a worldwide spread of the killer disease after being allowed on two flights while infected.
And tonight a desperate race was on to find dozens of passengers who flew on the same jets as the 40-year-old American.
British doctors and border officials have been warned to be on the lookout for people in the uk showing signs of the disease.
Mr Sawyer was allowed to board an ASKY Airlines flight in Liberia, where ebola is rife, despite vomiting and suffering from ­diarrhoea. His sister was recently killed by the virus.
Protection: The disease is a global threat
He had a stopover in Ghana then changed planes in Togo and flew to the international travel hub of Lagos in nigeria. The dad-of-three died five days after arriving in the city.
Lancaster University virologist Derek ­Gatherer said passengers, crew and airport ground staff who came into contact with Mr Sawyer could be in “pretty serious danger”. ebola is fatal in 90% of cases.
Doctors have identified 59 people who were near him and have tested 20. But they are struggling to find the others, who could have flown to anywhere in the world from Lagos.
There were today questions over how Liberian government worker Mr Sawyer was let on flights while clearly showing symptoms of ebola – which has killed 672 people in Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone since it broke out in February.
Experts from Public Health England have met uk Border Agency officials to make sure staff are aware of the signs to look for in ebola sufferers.
PHE has also used its national medical alert system to advise all uk doctors to “remain vigilant for unexplained illness in those who have visited the affected area”.
Symptoms include vomiting and ­diarrhoea, fever, weakness, headache and sore throat.
Those struck down can also suffer internal and external bleeding. The virus is spread through human contact. There is no cure.
PHE director of global health Dr Brian McCloskey described the ebola outbreak as the most “acute emergency” facing Britain.
The expert said he had briefed David Cameron.
He added: “When these things start to escalate we work with everybody to ensure they are aware of what needs to happen.”
Poll Update: More Students Say No To School Fees Increment
It will be two months by August 17 since the students of Obafemi Awolowo University were sent home by the Management of the citadel over what was regarded as 'violent protest' from the students. However, many of the students despite their reposition homes still hold on to the view that the increment in school fees is not justifiable.
In an ongoing Poll on our Blog, www.oaupeeps.com, it is revealed that more students are still saying NO to the increment while very few are saying YES to it.
Poll Result As At Wednesday, 30th July 2014, 12:46
Your Position On School Fees Increment?
Yes To Increment - 7%
No To Increment - 88%
Not Concerned - 3%
Votes So Far - 26
How To Participate In The Poll
All you need to do is to scroll this page down and you will see our Poll Section, Click on your choice and it is saved. If you are on a Computer, you have the Poll Section at the mid right of the homepage.
NB: You can only vote ONCE as our system stores the vote attached to your IP.
Breaking News Interview Tech Top News
Archive: Oyeyiola Segun, A Student Of OAU Builds A Solar-powered Car
Like I have always said, Nigerian students are no dull brains, they are only handicapped by the non-working atmosphere and condition created for them. Here is a solar-powered vehicle built by Oyeyiola Segun, a Part 5 student of the Electronic and Electrical Department of Obafemi Awolowo University.
In an exclusive interview with OAU Peeps News Agency, he explained how the car came into existence and the motivations behind it.
OAU Peeps: Can we meet you sir?
Segun: Okay, I am Oyeyiola Segun, a part 5 student of Elect-Elect., OAU
OAU Peeps: We learnt you built this lovely car. Was it a joint project or you did it yourself?
Segun: I did it only. This is not a day’s job, I have been working on it for some months now.
OAU Peeps: So how does the car work?
Segun: Basically it depends on Wind and Solar energy. All the energy derived for these two sources were converted to run the simple car. There are different means of obtaining energy from these two sources but I picked the one that is cool for my car.
OAU Peeps: From what you just said, you can either use the Wind or Solar Energy to power the car’s engine?
Segun: Not either energy, rather both energies are used to power the car.
OAU Peeps: Cool… that differentiates your production from the usual vehicles we see around us I suppose?
Segun: Yes, you are very correct.
OAU Peeps: Could you share with us what actually provoked your innovation? I mean what you thought before coming up with this lovely engine?
Segun: Basically, it is because of the climate change we experience due to the combustion of fuel and you know cars also contribute to that change. So I thought of running a car that will not use fuel for its locomotion. After series of thinking and research work, I came up with the simple method that gave birth to this. So that is the basic reason for the car. Another concern of mine is to produce a car that will function effectively at a reduced cost of maintenance. I believe you know the price of fuel in this country is almost going beyond the reach of a common man?
OAU Peeps: Yes, you are right. Is there any other peculiarity of the car that you will like to share apart from the once you have mentioned?
Segun: Of course yes. Another thing that distinguishes my car from the common ones you see around is that you can know the state of the car through your mobile phones. I wrote a software that you can install which will give you the basic information about the car while in your room.
OAU Peeps: What do you mean by the State of the car?
Segun: I mean the functionality of the car, like the battery level, the weather conditions, the distance you can cover during different weather conditions. In case you have a bad weather. The car also has a GPS in it that helps to know the location of the car. These and many other features embedded in it.
OAU Peeps: Wow! this is very lovely. Do you have plans replicating this nice work in the future?
Segun: The work has come to stay, but I need to keep improving it for now.
OAU Peeps: It took you how many years to put this together?
Segun: That your question can be phased into two categories, do you mean mentally or physically?
OAU Peeps: Lol… you are right. Let us talk about the Physical aspect of it now.
Segun: Okay. We all know how our country is, I mean to get money is not easy but I pray that God will make it easy for everyone of us. The truth is, I cannot really say how long because I started using my personal little money to get the materials together. Let me just say about twelve(12) months.
OAU Peeps: Did you encounter any major challenge during this project?
Segun: Yes, Money. Even at the moment, I still need funds to get some others materials which are in my original paper design which I have not implemented on the car.
OAU Peeps: What will be the summarized cost of this car when fully ready?
Segun: There are lots of things that will lead to summary cost of production, so for now I cannot specifically state the cost but with all the materials that I will be needing since I am not producing in large quantities, its close to a million Naira. Now quantifying my effect and others on foreseen cases.
OAU Peeps: Finally, your message to fellow Nigerian students?
Segun: My message to my fellow students is that Rome was not built in a day. It is better to start anything you want to do now and don’t never, I repeat, never expect someone to believe in your dreams because they may not understand it as you do. Endeavor to follow your heart and do what will make you happy and that which will not affect your fellow being negatively. May God help and bless us all.
OAU Peeps: Amen. Thank you so much Engineer, we are indeed proud of you.
Segun: You are welcome and May God help OAU Peeps News Agency too.
Latest University Rankings: OAU Drops To 3rd Position In Nigeria
The latest University Ranking of the popular 4iuc.org parades Obafemi Awolowo University as the third best in Nigeria. The ranking means the initially rated best University in the nation dropped two places down. Occupying the leading position now is the University of Ilorin while University of Lagos occupies the second spot. OAU occupies the 26th position in Africa and the 2157th position in the World Ranking.
The backdrop in the performance of Obafemi Awolowo University in this ranking may not be unconnected to the recent closure of the University by the school authority following demonstrations by the students over increment in school fees which manyhas labelled 'Inconsiderable' and 'Outrageous'.
Below are the the top 20 Universities according to the July, 2014 4icu.org Ranking
1 University of Ilorin
2 University of Lagos
3 Obafemi Awolowo University
4 University of Ibadan
5 Landmark University
6 Covenant University
7 Federal University of Technology, Minna
8 University of Benin
9 University of Agriculture, Abeokuta
10 University of Nigeria
11 Madonna University
12 Ahmadu Bello University
13 University of Port Harcourt
14 Federal University of Technology, Akure
15 Rivers State University of Science and Technology
16 Bayero University Kano
17 University of Jos
18 Nnamdi Azikiwe University
19 Redeemer's University
20 University of Maiduguri
4 International Colleges & Universities is an international higher education search engine and directory reviewing accredited Universities and Colleges in the world. 4icu.org includes 11,307 Colleges and Universities, ranked by web popularity, in 200 countries.
An Open Letter To President Ibikunle Isaac
Hello Honourable Isaac Ibikunle, I hope you are doing well. How is the business of student activism going? You must be proud of yourself now. Your popularity scale has increased immensely. The last time I searched your name on Google, I saw very interesting posts about you. From news about your protest where a former militant allegedly shot at students, to photos of the protests that led to the school’s closure.. Lest I forget, I love that photo of you I found on the internet, you wore a black suit and looked confident, the look of someone prepared to take over the world.
It is important to note that I have known you since I was in Angola hall as a part 1 student. Then, you were the hall chairman and you exuded exceptional leadership qualities in the Great Ife style. Some months back when you approached me to discuss your candidacy, I gave you my full support without thinking twice. My only reason was that I believed in you. I still believe in you sir and still have your back. Nevertheless, I won’t mind us addressing some issues.
Like President Goodluck Jonathan, you inherited huge and numerous problems. Let me make it clear, the problem of this great nation is not the government but the people because the people make up the government. One of the problems you inherited is ‘Awo Boys’. The other is a group of passive students who lack interest in how things are run within the university. Both parties have their advantages and disadvantages.
Judging from comments I got from my last article, it is obvious that 90 percent of OAU students don’t have a problem with the increase in school fees. Maybe I should put it this way, most students are not thanking you and your team for sending us home again and wasting our precious time.
The question is whose problem is it that we are home now? The school management? The student union? ‘Awo boys(Most of who have the major attendance at congresses?) Or the passive students who will rather sit on the fence and watch events unfold, then complain when things go wrong.
According to reports, the school management is acting on orders from above, if you know what that means? The same order from above that recently delayed former Minister of Education Oby Ezekwesili from boarding her flight when she was going to London for the BBC Hard Talk programme. The same order from above that has consistently humiliated Governor Godswill Akpabio. The same order from above that almost destroyed the career of former CBN Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi whom before was the stone that the builders rejected and has now turned the head corner stone. I’m sure you get the drift now.
Unconfirmed reports have it that orders from above have directed Federal Universities to find means of generating internal revenue. Orders from above are now saying “education cannot be free again. It is reducing the amount of money we embezzle. And we can’t forfeit our life of luxury just because some people want quality education. Not in our life time.”
Yes, OAU has a tradition – it is the school for the poor. Let me remind you that tradition is a major enemy of progress. As much as we know that the excuse for increasing the school fees logically doesn’t guarantee us quality education, we are not ignorant of the fact that, 21st century education has gone past paying N7,000 as school fees and N3,090 for accommodation.
We are fighting for the less privileged right? The bible even says, the poor will always be among us. What it further states clearly is that the rich should help the less privileged. So instead of embarking on a struggle that we know will lead us nowhere like the previous ones, we should have found a way to ask the school management to provide plans to cater for the less privileged and make ‘quality’ education less of a burden for them.
Truth be told, ‘all these protests we are sharing’ will lead us nowhere. Remember the fuel subsidy protest? What was the outcome? Remember ASUU strike? What was the outcome? The latest one is #bringbackourgirls. It’s over 100 days now but our girls are still nowhere to be found.
You think we’ll get empathy from people? Bros, nah lie o. Everyman for himself. You have to work out your own salvation. No one is ready to fight for us now. Nigeria’s got so many problems that we don’t even know which one to tackle first.
When I was growing, my father made me have just one prayer point – Dear Lord, please grant me wisdom, knowledge and understanding. Sir, this is very important. We must never let our background put us on the ground. Before someone casts a stone at me, I know what my father went through to pay my current school fees. Just gave you that information to let you know I’m also one of the less privileged that you are fighting for. The fact is, there comes a point in a man’s life when he determines that where he is coming from doesn’t decide where he is going. Check out most of the guys running things on campus, their parents are not the richest peeps out there. Most of us have just made a decision that no matter what happens, we will work hard, chase out the poverty in us, and be rich too someday.
Also Mr. President for those passive ones blaming you for sending us home and creating all sort of display pictures of you on BBM, you should tell them that they are the greatest fools on earth. Where were they when we held congresses and ‘awo boys’ voted that we embark on protest. Maybe if some of them had attended just one congress, they would have been reasonable enough to give us ideas on how to fight for our rights without being sent out of school after spending six months at home due to ASUU strike last year.
While our time is being wasted, our lecturers are ‘chopping the head of their life’ and will still receive their full salaries. Maybe when we eventually resume they’ll say they want 200 days leave in order to rest and be mentally, physically and psychologically prepared for the semester. Maybe senior lecturers will complain of being underpaid and then embark on a strike. Maybe non-academic staff will launch their own industrial action. Oh, my favourite, maybe ASUU will find one more reason to fight the Federal Government. And once again, we will be at home telling our neighbours the same old story. ‘Omo OAU e ro nu’ (OAU students, think!).
By the way sir, who are you supporting in the forthcoming Osun State gubernatorial elections? Senator Iyiola Omisore or Ogbeni Aregbe? I’m sure one of them would have approached you. Anyway, anything for your boy? I won’t mind a share of the national cake? After all, it’s our money. I still remain loyal boss.
In other news, Ebola virus is here. What plans do you have for students when we resume?
The writer of this Open Letter, Olabode Emmanuel Olawumi is an Art student of Obafemi Awolowo University. You can reach Olabode through his e-mail:
We Are Not Planning To Go On Strike -ASUU
What may be coming to many as a breathe of solace is finally here as we can confirm to you without any shadow of doubt that the Academic Staff Union of Universities(ASUU) will not be going on strike any time soon.
In an exclusive chat with one of the top members of the Union who pleaded anonymity earlier today disclaimed the rumour of his members planning to embark on any strike. He argued that they cannot go on strike for now and if the need be for it, the Federal Government will be issued a notice which will be made public. In his words, ''ASUU cannot go on strike for now, we are also reasonable individuals and we will not do anything to jeopardize the education system. If peradventure we want to go on strike, we will notify the FG early enough and engage them through pre-strike measures first''. He further explained that the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics(ASUP) and College of Education Academic Staff Union(COEASU) have just called off their strikes to give the new Minister of Education time to intervene in their respective matters, so they quite understand this.
However, the ASUU top member refused to make any comment on the state of implementation of the agreement between the Federal Government and the members of his Union owning to the reason of non-authorization. The rumour of the likelihood of ASUU resuming their went viral on social media some days ago without any confirmed source.
INEC Shortlist Recruited Ad-Hoc Staffs For Osun Poll
With just less than 12 days to the Osun state gubernatorial election, the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) has announced the names of the recruited.
All candidates that applied earlier are hereby enjoined to visit the INEC office closest to them to check if they are considered for the job.
As for students of the Obafemi Awolowo University that applied, you are to check a the INEC office in Ife Central Local Government Area. The PRO of the Students' Union reacting to this development promises to make the lists of shortlisted candidates accessible on OAU campus soon.
The Osun Governorship election comes up on 9th August, 20, 2014.
National News Top News
Ebola Outbreak: Causes, Transmission, Symptoms And Prevention
Ebola Virus Disease(EVD)
, formerly known as Ebola haemorrhagic fever is a severe,often fatal illness in humans. The first outbreak of EVD was in 1976 - a twin outbreak in Nzara,Sudan and Yambuku,Democratic Republic of Congo. The largest outbreak as of 2014 is the ongoing ''2014 West Africa Ebola outbreak'' which is affecting Guinea,Sierra Leone,Liberia and Nigeria.
EVD is caused by 4 of 5 viruses classified in the genus Ebolavirus,family Filoviridae,order Mononegavirales ; Bundigyo virus,Ebola/Zaire virus,Sudan virus and Tai forest virus. The fifth,Reston virus,commonly found in Philippine and China can infect humans,but no illness has been reported till date.
EVD is believed to occur after an Ebola virus is transmitted to a human index. It's transmitted through direct contact with blood,secretions,organs or other bodily fluids of infected people.
SIGNS and SYMPTONS
-Fever
-Intense weakness
-Muscle pain
-Headache
-Sore throat
-Vomitting
-Diarrhoea
-Rash,impaired kidney and liver function.
-Low white blood cell and platelet counts.
In Africa,fruit bats,particularly species of the genera ''Hypsignathus Monstrosus'',''Epomops Franqueti'' and ''Myanycteris Torquata'' are the natural hosts of EBOV. No vaccine for EVD is available,patients are frequently dehydrated and require oral rehydration with solutions containing electrolytes or intravenous fluids.
-Reduce risk of animal-to-human transmission from contact with infected fruit bats or monkeys and consumption of their raw meat.
-Animals should be handled with gloves and other appropriate protective clothing.
-Animal meat should be thoroughly cooked.
-Avoiding close contact with an Ebola patient.
-Sharing of personal clothings should be avoided.
-Handshaking,hugging and other bodily contacts should be reduced to avoid cataclysmic outbreak.
Considering the perculiarity of Obafemi Awolowo University campus where bats fly in their millions every minute, what precautionary measures are been put in place by the school management to prevent the Ebola outbreak?
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The Effect Of "Mobile Number Portability" On Telecom Services & Usage In Nigeria
By David Adetula
People are the quintessential elements in all technology…Once we recognize the inescapable human nexus of all technology, our attitude towards the reliability problem is fundamentally changed.{1} In this light, the effect of mobile number portability on telecom services and usage in Nigeria cannot be critically assessed without the careful study of the responses of the people of the public who are the direct consumers of this innovation.
What is Mobile Number Portability? Mobile Number Portability is a service that enables you to keep your mobile phone number when changing from one mobile service provider to another. So, if you switch between service providers, you do not have to go through the trouble of informing all your friends, family, colleagues and other contacts because your number stays the same.{2}
Though the Mobile Number Portability service has been in existence in many countries of the world for some years now, yet, its introduction in Nigeria has been heralded by many as a giant step forward to giving our telecommunications industry the expected development. The effect of Mobile Number Portability on telecom services and its usage in Nigeria is undoubtedly noticeable among the various stakeholders of this project particularly the general public that embraces this new service. So also, the telecom services providers involved in it. The joy of a competitive market for the telecom services providers is definitely the first to reckon with on the part of the consumers. Competition in what sense? ‘Shallow’ telecom companies will now have to improve in the quality of their service delivery in order to stand a chance in the telecommunications industry.
The consumers in this market, that is the general public now have the option to swap to any network they deem fit as good for them. It is expected of any rational patronizer of these telecom companies to have a particular evaluation scheme in order to rate their services. Hence, the one with the highest rating gets the nod of usage by the consumer. What am I talking here? Now that these companies saddled with the responsibility of providing telecom services at a charge now understand that users have been given a more flexible platform to select without excruciating processes, the best service provider unlike before, this definitely tickles them to rise up to completion.. To stay afloat, an improved quality of service delivery to the customers in the market is no longer negotiable.
In same vein, a fair leveled playing ground is indirectly created for all telecommunications companies in Nigeria with the Mobile Number Portability service introduction. Some companies with good quality of service delivery that have overtime been overshadowed by the popular and old companies in the industry due to the financial base they have built over the years of their existence now have a very good chance to prove their worth to the public since the flexibility to swap networks without losing their phone number is wonderful! This in a way encourages business minded individuals and moguls who wished to come into the system but have been discouraged by the fear of not meeting up with the existing ones in a great way.
Another effect this service has brought is the drastic reduction in health hazard. Before now, many people purchase more than one mobile phone to contain more than a line in order to avoid the unpredictable ‘drama’ being played by the services providers at most times. At least, they were sure one will be fair when the other misbehaves. This use of multiple mobile phones unknowingly has its own effect both health-wisely and psychologically on the users which is definitely a bad one.
Although the claims that the exposure to radiofrequency radiation from wireless phones cause cancer is unverified, yet, there are confirmed reports of other health hazard from it. This include changes in brain activity, reaction time and sleep patterns.{3} These are actually minor effects but their multiplicity with the use of multiple mobile phones is definitely not a healthy one. With Mobile Number Portability scheme now, the problem is been curtailed. Simultaneously, the standard of living of this service embracers have also topped up. The money previously expended on purchasing multiple mobile phones can now be channeled to other meaningful investments. Thanks to this service introduction!
The usage of this service in Nigeria is yet to reach the expected level owning to some statistical reasons. From a quick survey I took time to study in an online community, it showed what I concluded to be a high level of ignorance about the service on the part of the public.{4} Also, there are real claims by some Nigerians to why they didn’t even bother to give it a trial. Among those claims is the 90-day restriction to a network after porting before one can leave for another if not satisfied with the service. “If I can retrieve my lost SIM card online without the need to visit a customer care office, why cannot I port my line at the convenience of my domain?” This and many other unanswered questions trail this service.
However, this service has recorded huge success in many nations where it is been used. So, I do not see an exception to that possibility in Nigeria ONLY if the raised concerns are promptly and adequately addressed. More publicity about this service should also be engaged by necessary parties to properly sensitize the general public on areas that are grey to them. With that, one can be so sure that this service has come to stay for good and its usage will be greater than what we have now.
1.Garrett Hardin, Skeptic, July-August 1976 (S&S)
2.Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ), Mobile Number Portability by Nigerian Communications Commission
http://www.ncc.gov.ng/index.php%3Foption%3Dcom_docman%26task%3Ddoc_download%26gid%3D359%26Itemid%3D&sa=U&ei=zYeRUvGoFImS0QW834CoCg&ved=0CAsQFjAA&usg=AFQjCNHNL9X8zD9XuZ8pZU6I-uiQWq3yNg
3.What Are The Health Risks Associated With Mobile Phones and Their Base Stations
by World Health Organization, Online Q&A,20 September, 2013
http://www.who.int/features/qa/30/en
4.What You Need To Know About Mobile Number Portability by Awodman
http://www.nairaland.com/1268233/what-need-know-mobile-number-portability
The writer of this article, David Adetula is a 300L student of Obafemi Awolowo University. You can reach David through his e-mail: davidadetula@gmail.com
Ex-PREDITES: Now That Result Is Out, What Next?
It is just like yesterday when the Predegree Programme for the 2013/2014 academic session kick started. Out of many tens of thousands that applied for the programme then, very small percentage was offered admission to come in and join the race to OAU. Since then, I want to agree with our friends that went through the programme that it was not an easy one except for God.
About 72 hours ago, the final results of the students of the just ended session were released and many already know their fate. Though, no statistical breakdown of performance is usually made public after every session, but the fact remains that not everyone of them will make it to the dreamland of Obafemi Awolowo University.
Having known that a minimum score required for anyone that has passed through the OAU Predegree programme for admission is 60%. In lieu of this, we want to congratulate all those that scaled this hurdle. If you are one of them, you are a student of OAU in the embryo.
Now that the result is out, what next? For as many that will be taking the OAU Post-UTME, we believe that is your next point of call. Going there to prove the stuff you have got. We already wrote something on thepreparation towards the Post-UTME Exam.
Much more importantly, this Post-UTME exercise in view is very strategic and crucial for ex-Predites that got below 60% but had above 199 in their UTME. This is the ONLY clear chance to remain on the admission track race.
After the Post-UTME, we can now start discussing the admission processing in a new thread. On August 2, we will create a new topic where all the admission processing for 2014/2015 will be discussed. This will serve both the ex-Predites and JAMBites.
Until then, we wish you all good success in the Post-UTME exercise!
Breaking News Campus Gists Top News
Students' Union Leaders React To Late Registration Commencement
FROM THE LEADERSHIP OF THE UNION (As at the 28th of July,2014)
Revolutionary greetings to Great IFE students in their display of unwavering doggedness ever since the beginning of this million miles struggle to save public education and the future of the poor majority as well as the future of our dear nation, Nigeria. A scriptural injunction made for many starting but few being able to endure to the end. In light of this we unavoidably respect all Great IFE students who have prosecuted this struggle alongside the Union in utmost good faith and perseverance devoid of any ingenuity ever since till this point in history. Doubtless, history will remain kind to you and success of the struggle remains the golden award that can ever be best presented for your display of courage and resilience in the face of oppression.
Ever since the closure of the school on 18th of June, the university management has employed various tactics to force students to pay the unjustified fees ranging from the opening of the E-portal for payment and registration, fixing of a first date for commencement of late registration and an extension of the date to a later date. Beyond the illegality of such dates, consequent upon the closure of the school, the University has decided to make students pay under duress and later tell the public that the fees are affordable having earlier misinformed the general public about the fee regime. The quest to proof the non-affordability of the fees informed the position of the Union that students should not pay. To those who haven’t paid, thanks for defending our argument that not all students can pay. In the fiendish bid of the University management to force this huge moles of fees down our throat, they attempted turning our parent and staff unions against us as our actions went by. Thanks to the intervention of Joint Action Front (JAF) who helped to bring everyone back to a point of mutual understanding. This is against the allegation that the Union rejected the intervention of JAF and its efforts towards a quick and reasonable resolution of all matters on ground.
It is quite unfortunate that at critical historical moments like this, some individuals have constituted themselves into thorns in the neck and saboteurs of the struggle vis a vis their particular display of pervasive comradeship. These individuals will only advocate for trouble other than peaceful resolution of matters. They will propose lines of action and still be the same set of persons to antagonize all when the actions are not yielding results. The same individuals went on to apply for INEC job after criticizing the idea by the Union that it was a political move. These individuals so take pleasure in playing politics with a struggle for the emancipation of the oppressed. Your hypocrisy and banality will be addressed in due time.
Having conducted ourselves as constructive, progressive, matured and peaceful fighters for emancipation, our actions attracted interventions from various quarters both within and outside the university system. ASUU following a directive of its NEC, concerned associations and eminent individuals met us and appealed that we give them room to intervene and mediate so that the whole issue will be resolved on the table and early re-opening will be ensured. Our refusal to entertain peace moves would present us as the belligerent party- an image which will make us lose sympathy before our teeming supporters and strengthen the blackmail from the University management that we are not open to discussion when they have actually refused to call for one. As a Union we remain committed to quick and holistic resolution of the matter to allow our students to resume the campus again. J.F Kennedy said ‘Civility is not a sign of weakness and sincerity is always subject to proof. Let us never negotiate out of fear but let us not fear to negotiate’. The hapless condition of market women, okada riders, commercial bus drivers and business owners whose livelihood depends on students being on campus renders quick resumption more exigent.
We remain resolute in fighting for the poor, indigent and general downtrodden of the nation who education remains their only route to good life. The fees regardless of the amount is out of the reach of the indigent and we cannot afford to see our friends drop out of school due to inability to pay fees. It is important that the government at all levels (University administrations inclusive) to note that the best security measure that can be put in place in a capitalist society like ours is to cater for the poor and vulnerable in the society. For if a free society cannot help the many who are poor it cannot save the few who are rich. Making life more difficult by making an essential commodity like education exclusive to the indigent is a fast route to the destruction of the capitalist society. Cater for the poor and you have peace is the rule else according to John F. Kennedy …until this is done, the struggle continues as our aluta train is still very much alive.
It is sardonic that some students at the call for late registration went on to pay the fees. The question is if the OAU situation were to be like that of LASU where fees were jacked up from NGN25, 000 to like NGN300, 000, would you have paid? Even if it is the reduced fee of LASU now between N85, 000 and N130,000 would you have still paid? Would you have betrayed the order of the union not to pay? It’s certain that many will still obey our directive if these had been the case!
The idea of late registration with the current status of the varsity is not only illegal but also laughable! It is to us ridiculous that people that cannot afford to pay an increased fee is being compelled to pay late registration fee especially when controversies on the fee regime linger. How can such person afford the late registration fee? Thousands have not paid including the leadership of the union, Great IFE, let’s see who will truncate our studentship for astronomical increase we cannot afford! Moreover, the University calendar is no more operative since school is shut down. A new calendar presupposes the re-opening of the school and a senate meeting to approve new calendar where late registration will be explicitly stated. Late registration at this period is nothing but an attempt to punish us for exercising our right to protest against obnoxious increment. It cannot stand! Time will tell!
Conclusively, being the alternative to the status quo, we are committed to quick resumption and we are doing everything possible to achieve that but not at the expense of the indigent students. We are employing all strength available to ensure that we achieve a holistic resolution of all matters including a review of the fees, instalmental payment, work study and grants for the indigent and scholarship for the brilliant among other issues. The last three we had proposed during the pre-action negotiations but they refused then. Why is it that it is now they are now informing us at the panel that they are ready to accept that? We implore Great IFE students to remain resolute with us in this struggle for the liberation of the poor Nigerian child. Education must not be out of the reach of the poor. Great Ife, if this is the only thing our current generation can do for subsequent ones, we must achieve it!
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Bamidele Oludare J.
The PRO.
Ibikunle Isaac M.
The President.
Nigeria Youngstar, Kelechi Iheanacho Scores Again For Manchester City(Video)
Kelechi may be on his way to glory as he adds to his goal tally in the current Manchester City pre-season tour. It will be recalled that the youngster had earlier scored in his previous game which was his debut for the English Premier League champions, Manchester City FC.
To watch his goal, check our YouTube Channel
Admissions Top News
Countdown To August 2: The Needful!
What is actually happening on August 2? An average follower of the situation of things and happenings on Obafemi Awolowo University campus should be able to give a perfect answer to this. The Post-UTME screening test of the citadel comes up that day by 11:00am.
By now, we expect every aspirant taking this test to have gone beyond the registration stage, both ex-Predites and JAMBites and now concentrating on the examination proper. Remember, excluding today, you have just 5 days to go!
It is quite unfortunate that many have been gripped by fear of the exam even before the day which is not supposed to be. OAU Post-UTME is not as hard as you hear many exaggerate it to be but it only requires your adequate preparedness and focus. Once you put these things in place, with GOD, you are sure of good success.
In the exam, you will be tested on the four subjects you took in your Unified Tertiary and Matriculation Examination(UTME). Each subject will have 23-27 questions accrued to it making a total of 100 questions. 1 hour 30 minutes is usually given for the exam and strictly adhered to most of the time. These 100 questions will give you a total score of 400 marks. The exam has always been a Paper Pencil Test(PPT) and same it be this year.
Something beautiful and special about this year's Post-UTME is that candidates will get to know their results only few hours after the conduct as it will be sent to their Phone Numbers which they provided during registration. Just like what we had for those that wrote the Computer Based Test(CBT) in the 2014 UTME.
It is also worthy to let you understand that getting to your respective examination venue is very important and tantamount a times to the confidence used to write the exam. We have seen over the years cases whereby Candidates rush down to their examination venue just 10 minutes to the time. May I ask you please, apart from the possible wasting of such person's time by the Invigilator or Supervisor of the exam, how about the pressure on that person? Hence, the need for you to arrive your examination venue very early. It is possible that you are seated for more than an hour in wait for the arrival of the question paper but do not panic or shiver, remain composed and use that precious moment to ponder on those things you have read.
Do you still need to be told that OAU has ZERO tolerance for any form of examination malpractice. Once caught, that ends your hope of gaining admission to the University this year. Also remember to come along with all what you have been instructed to come with. These include:
• HB Pencil
• UTME Result downloaded from JAMB website.
• Post UTME Application/Registration Form showing your Passport Photograph.
Lastly, remember that INSTRUCTIONS are very vital, adhere to every instruction given to you. We wish you the very best of God and hope to hear good testimony from you all when the results are out!
If you have any question yet to be addressed, please put it up as a comment now and we will give you the appropriate answer asap.
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