Have You Read Your Student Handbook?

The first time I ever heard about a student handbook was when my Editor-in-Chief told me to write an article about it. Until then, I didn’t even know such a document existed. So when I was asked to write on the topic “Have You Read Your Student Handbook?”, I paused and silently wondered how many students have actually opened theirs.

This curiosity pushed me to carry out a small research of my own, focusing on the University of Ibadan as a major case study. I wanted to know how many students had truly taken the time to open, read, or even skim through their student handbook. The results were surprising and eye-opening.

When I asked students for their views on reading a University handbook, many of them said the idea felt strange, they had never even heard of it before. Others admitted they had heard of the handbook but had never had the opportunity to see it, let alone read it.

This gap in awareness made me realize something important, many students move through the university system without understanding the very rules, rights, and responsibilities that guide their academic journey. The student handbook, which is meant to serve as a compass, ends up being one of the most overlooked documents on campus.

"I know there is a handbook, but I don’t think I have ever seen it, let alone read it” said Vivian, a 100-level student from the Department of Dental Surgery.

"Which one is a Student handbook? I don't even know the handbook" said Tifeh, a 200-level Dental student.

"Yes, I have read one" said Abdulquduss, a 400-level student from the department of Botany.

"No, I can't really remember going through it, I should have but I can't even recall what it looks like" says Esther, a 500-level student of the department of Economics.

"I haven't heard of it or seen it. I know something like that should exist sha, but I haven't read it" Says Victor, a 600-level Medicine and Surgery student.

Looking at the data above, it is quite evident that a large number of students neither know nor understand the importance of reading a University handbook. I also observed that the handbook is not something students are actively made aware of. To enhance awareness, it should be made readily available to every student either during matriculations and registrations or at libraries, faculties, and departments as a free resource. Furthermore, students should be educated and oriented on the significance of the handbook and its role in navigating university life effectively. Going through the University of Ibadan handbook. The student handbook is more than just a booklet, it contains essential academic rules and regulations and the rights of the students. Reading the student handbook equips the students to navigate challenges and avoid unnecessary mistakes. It promotes sense of responsibility and discipline and empowers students to take control of their education. It also enables students to know and effectively understand how their department and faculties function, the history of the University and more.

Under the University Act, the power to discipline students is vested in the Student Disciplinary Committee (SDC). Their major function is to handle individual cases of indiscipline. Any student who appears before the Student Disciplinary Committee is expected, in the interest of fair hearing, to come forward and freely defend their case, with the use of witnesses or documents to prove their innocence. It is therefore very important that the Handbook is indeed made readily available to the public and should be an important book for every student in the University.

In Section 5, page 29 of the 2023/2024 Student Handbook under Examination Regulations, Students General Conduct and discipline. It is clearly stated that candidates must attend punctually at the time assigned to their papers and must be at the venue of their examinations 30 minutes before the commencement of the examinations. They must also be ready to be admitted into the examination hall at least 10 minutes before the commencement of the examination. Any candidate who arrives more than half an hour after the examination has begun shall not be permitted to participate in the examination, except for cogent reasons. All students are advised to adhere strictly to these instructions. By familiarizing themselves with the handbook, students can navigate examination periods confidently and maintain a positive academic record.

Imagine a fresher who has been nonchalant and lackadaisical about academics all along since resumption, piling up slides and procrastinating. He suddenly becomes involved in examination malpractice, an act clearly prohibited by the school’s rules and regulations and strongly emphasized in the handbook. The handbook explicitly warns in Section 5, page 32-33 that for any student caught in the act of examination malpractice, the examination of such shall be deferred until relevant committees dispose the case. The faculty Student Disciplinary Commitee shall recommend any student against whom a prima facie case has not been established for acquittal but if the affected student has insufficient evidence and is indeed found guilty, an appropriate penalty shall be applied and the student may then be rusticated or expelled from the University. During examination periods, it is extremely important for students to avoid actions or items that could be perceived as cheating or misconduct.

Also, the University of Ibadan Student Handbook emphasizes proper appearance by clearly stating that students are expected to appear decent and well presented within the university community. Indecent dressing is described as dressing that offends public morality, public decency and involves undue exposure of the body. Many students are unaware that the handbook contains specific rules regarding dress code, including the prohibition of indecent dressing and sagging of trousers. Understanding these rules is crucial because violating them, even unknowingly, can attract disciplinary actions. In a situation where a student, unaware of these stated rules, dresses inappropriately, such a student could be called before the disciplinary committee and face sanctions. This is clearly stated in page 46, offense number 6 and the sanction ranges from reprimand to rustication for one semester.This pinpoints why reading the handbook is essential as it ensures that students are informed about expectations and can present themselves appropriately at all times.

Furthermore, the handbook maintains a zero-tolerance stance on harassment and violence, clearly stating that any actions that threaten the peace, safety, or well being of others are strictly prohibited. Activities such as cultism, or any behavior that endangers lives are seriously banned, as they can harm both the individual student’s reputation and the overall image of the university. Page 46, offense number 10. Anyone who fails to adhere will be expelled from the University. Knowledge of these rules is critical not only for avoiding immediate disciplinary measures but also for safeguarding one’s long term academic and personal reputation. By adhering strictly to  all of these regulations, students contribute to a safer and more respectful campus environment for everyone.

The student handbook is indeed an invaluable guide that every student should read and understand.  It provides clarity on academic rules, campus resources, and student responsibilities, helping to prevent mistakes that could have long-term consequences. Ignoring the handbook can lead to unnecessary problems, while engaging with it empowers students to make informed decisions and navigate university life with confidence. Institutions should make the handbook accessible, and students should take the initiative to consult it regularly. Ultimately, reading the student handbook is not just a recommendation, it is a key step toward a successful and responsible academic journey.

Ayomikun Faith Omotayo