By Otitoju Femi
The Institute of Part-Time Studies at the Federal University Oye-Ekiti has commenced online examinations for the first time, marking a significant shift toward digital learning and assessment in the institution. The initiative, driven by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Joshua Olalekan Ogunwole, is aimed at aligning the university with global best practices, reducing operational costs, and eliminating the traditional paper-based examination system.
Speaking in an interview with the Directorate of Public Affairs and Communication (DIPAC), the Deputy Director of the Institute, Dr. Victoria Gbadegesin explained that the transition to online examinations reflects a deliberate effort by the university leadership to modernize academic processes.
“This is the Vice-Chancellor’s initiative. He believes it is time for the university to embrace modern ways of doing things. With the support of the university’s ICT team, we were able to design and implement the online examination system,” she said.
Addressing concerns about internet accessibility, she noted that the university has made provisions to support students.
“FUOYE Internet Distribution Service is available for students who can come close to the ICT Centre at Phase Three of the university. This allows us to easily attend to issues related to internet connectivity. However, students who cannot come to campus have been advised to find suitable locations with reliable internet access to take their examinations,” she added.
On the issue of examination malpractice, the Deputy Director emphasized that strict monitoring mechanisms have been put in place.
“There is no way a student can engage in examination malpractice without being detected. We closely monitor all candidates and can see everything they do during the examination. Even issues like improper dressing or sitting posture are addressed in real time. Once a student is caught violating examination rules, it is clearly indicated, and appropriate sanctions are applied,” she stated.
When asked how communication is maintained with students during the examination period, she explained that structured channels have been established.
“The students have representatives who serve as a link between them and the institute. These representatives are in constant communication with us, ensuring that feedback and concerns are promptly addressed,” she said.
Despite the progress recorded, the institute acknowledged several challenges encountered during the implementation phase. The Examinations Officer, Dr. Oyeleke Abiodun highlighted issues ranging from student behavior to limited access to devices.
“We have faced challenges such as students disregarding instructions during exams and pretending not to hear invigilators. The level of examination malpractice has reduced significantly compared to what is obtainable in paper-based exams, but the advantage now is that we can monitor and detect all infractions,” the officer said.
He further noted issues related to time management and access to technology.
“For instance, an examination scheduled for 8 a.m., some students delay until much later before attempting it. We are still working on ensuring compliance with scheduled times. Additionally, some students do not own laptops and have to share devices, which affects their ability to participate seamlessly,” he added.
Providing an overview of the exercise, the Director of the Institute of Part-Time Studies, Professor Adelani Tijani who came in when our team was about to leave, described the initiative as a pioneering effort.
“We are just pioneering this system, and to the glory of God, it is progressing smoothly. The examination will run for one month. Each day, we begin at 7 a.m. and end at 8 p.m., with each examination lasting thirty minutes,” he said.
He commended the Vice-Chancellor for his forward-thinking leadership.
“We deeply appreciate the Vice-Chancellor for this initiative. He has a clear vision and good plans for the university. We are confident that, with God’s help, he will take FUOYE to greater heights,” he added.
Photo Credit: Toye Fisher
