OAU Student’s Life Cut Short by Academic Struggles
The Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Community is in mourning following the tragic death of a 200-level Medical Student, Ajibola Ibitayo. According to reports, Ibitayo took his own life after receiving his semester examination results, which showed he would need to repeat Part Two of his programme for another Academic Year.
This heartbreaking incident has sent shockwaves through the University, with many students and faculty members struggling to come to terms with the loss. Ibitayo, a 25-year-old student of the Faculty of Dentistry, was said to have injected himself at his parents’ home in Ejigbo, Osun State.
The circumstances surrounding Ibitayo’s death are still unfolding, but it is clear that academic pressure played a significant role. Many students in Nigerian Universities face immense stress and pressure to perform, often without adequate support systems. This incident has sparked a renewed call for mental health support services on campus.
The OAU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simeon Bamire, has expressed deep sadness over the incident and urged parents to encourage their children to view temporary setbacks as a normal part of life. The University’s management has also encouraged students facing academic challenges to seek support and counseling services available on campus.
The Dentistry Students’ Association has described Ibitayo’s death as a painful loss and a reminder of the silent struggles faced by many students. The Association is urging students to support one another and seek professional help when needed, emphasizing the importance of mental health.
Key Facts:
- Student’s Identity: Ajibola Ibitayo, Matriculation Number: DEN/2021/023
- Cause of Death: Alleged suicide due to poor academic performance
- Method: Injected himself at his parents’ home
- Previous Academic Struggle: Had already repeated Part Two during the previous session
As the OAU Community grapples with this tragic loss, many are left wondering what could have been done to prevent it. The incident highlights the need for increased support systems and mental health services on campus.
