Nigerian Lecturer Sparks Debate After High Failure Rate in University Course
A Nigerian university lecturer has ignited a widespread online discussion after disclosing that a significant majority of his students failed a course he taught. Dr Tosin Adesile shared a TikTok video where he expressed surprise and sought public advice following the assessment results.
Details of the Academic Outcome
In the video, Dr Adesile explained that he had just finished marking examination scripts for a mass communication course. Out of 80 registered students, only 15 managed to pass, achieving grades ranging from D to C. The remaining 65 students received a carryover, indicating they failed the course and would need to retake it. He kept the university's name anonymous to protect the students' privacy but confirmed the course was in mass communication during a brief interview with Legit.ng.
Dr Adesile stated in the video, "So, I'm just leaving my office now, and I just finished marking the scripts of my students. And out of 80 students that registered for the course, 65 students had carryover, while the remaining 15 had grades between a D and a C. What should I do for the remaining 65 students? Advise me. Thank you." His visible surprise at the outcome highlighted concerns over academic performance and teaching effectiveness.
Mixed Reactions from Social Media Users
The revelation prompted a flood of comments on social media, with opinions divided on the root cause of the high failure rate. Some users blamed the lecturer for inadequate teaching, while others pointed to student negligence and lack of effort.
- I’M_ABISOYE commented, "I’m sorry, sir, but if 65 failed out of 80, I think you didn’t teach them well, or review the papers again! If student failed it means the teacher failed to do his or her duty."
- PIKITO661 countered, "Those of you saying it is his fault don't know what is going on in universities these days. As a student who has had the opportunity to work with my lecturers myself, I'll tell you that it is not his fault. Students don't study anymore. They won't come to class, they won't participate in CA, they won't study for exams, but they just want to pass. Even my course mates mock me for studying. Some of you won't understand sha. Some lecturers do their best."
- kobcouture added, "Lol, I see a lot of people saying the problem is the lecture or his mode of teaching what about students that don’t even show up to class what about the ones that already had the mind set of I will block it what about the ones that don’t even read at all not everything is the lecture at times."
- Princess inquired, "Judging from that gate behind you, that’s my son’s school. Which department are you talking about before I advise you."
Broader Context of Student Academic Struggles
This incident reflects ongoing issues in Nigerian higher education, where high failure rates and academic pressure are common. In related reports, a UNILAG first-class graduate shared how failing a key course in his first year impacted his academic journey, while a University of Ilorin student described experiencing depression, insomnia, and migraines after receiving his first carryover, highlighting the emotional toll of academic setbacks.
The debate underscores challenges in balancing teaching quality with student responsibility, raising questions about curriculum design, assessment methods, and support systems in universities. As discussions continue, this case serves as a catalyst for broader conversations on improving educational outcomes and addressing the factors contributing to student underperformance in Nigeria.
