Covenant University Student Shares Humbling Invigilation Experience with 200 Learners
Alicia Dongo, an 18-year-old student at Covenant University, has sparked widespread discussion after sharing a candid reflection on her role as an invigilator for a university examination. In a detailed post on her LinkedIn profile, she recounted an experience that she described as both unusual and deeply humbling, involving over 200 candidates, many of whom were significantly older than her.
The Examination Hall Scenario
On Monday, March 9th, Alicia was assigned to invigilate the Covenant University E-learners examination alongside two master's students. The room was filled with more than 200 learners from diverse industries, backgrounds, and levels of experience. "Many of them were three times my age," she noted, highlighting the generational gap in the setting.
Instead of viewing the situation as an opportunity for networking and building connections, Alicia admitted that she focused intensely on maintaining discipline. "I saw a room that needed discipline. And I chose to be firm. Very firm. Not wicked. But... harsh," she wrote. This approach, while ensuring a smooth and orderly exam process, led her to a stark realization about her conduct.
A Costly Realization in Networking Terms
Alicia expressed that her strict demeanor might have cost her valuable professional relationships. "I may have lost over ₦1,000,000 because of this mistake. For an 18-year-old, that's a lot," she stated, referring to the potential networking opportunities she missed. She reflected that in the room were over 200 professionals with networks, opportunities, and experience—individuals she could have formed meaningful connections with.
"I became the feared invigilator," she acknowledged, adding that many candidates likely walked away with the impression that she was overly tough. This epiphany humbled her, as she recognized that networking is not just about meeting people but about how people remember you.
Commitment to Change and Balancing Discipline with Humanity
In response to her reflection, Alicia made a firm decision to adjust her approach. "I will still uphold integrity. I will still protect examination standards. But I will do it with kindness," she affirmed. She emphasized that the fight should be against examination malpractice, not against the learners themselves.
She concluded her post by posing a question to others in leadership roles: "How do you balance discipline with humanity?" and signed off with, "I'm Alicia. And I'm learning that influence is not just about authority but humanity."
Public Reactions and Broader Context
The post garnered significant attention and praise from social media users and professionals. Treasure Anosike commented, "State the rules clearly at the start and enforce them with a calm tone. Valuable lesson learned! Authority works best with empathy." Cyrus Ogbuji added, "It is wonderful to see people make mistakes and are self-aware and ready to make amends." Usman Arshad noted, "This level of self-awareness at 18 is impressive. Discipline earns compliance, but humanity earns respect—and you've already learned the difference."
This story comes amid other notable narratives in Nigerian higher education, such as a UNILAG best graduating student sharing rejection experiences and a graduate protesting unemployment. Previously, Legit.ng reported on the Lagos State University's best graduating student discussing her admission struggles and future aspirations.
Alicia's experience serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of empathy in professional and academic settings, especially for young individuals stepping into roles of authority.
