The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is experiencing a significant increase in requests for academic transcripts.
This rise is attributed to the “japa” trend, where Nigerians seek better opportunities abroad.
The Vice Chancellor of UNILAG, Professor Folasade Tolulope Ogunsola, made this revelation at the 2024 International Week and the 17th Annual Research Conference.
The theme of the conference was “Inclusive Digital Transformation and the University Promise.”
Prof. Ogunsola explained that many alumni, including those who graduated decades ago, are returning to request their academic records.
“People who graduated 30 or 40 years ago are now requesting transcripts,” she stated.
“This requires us to dig through paper records.”
This process highlights the challenges faced by the university in managing historical data.
In contrast, graduates from 2010 and later have an easier time due to digital systems in place.
“Those who graduated more recently face fewer issues because of our digital records,” Prof. Ogunsola added.
The Vice Chancellor emphasized UNILAG’s commitment to digital technology for over five decades.
However, she acknowledged the significant challenges posed by Nigeria’s unreliable electricity supply.
“Digital transformation is more than just a desire; it requires the right financial support and policy framework,” she said.
Despite advancements in infrastructure, Nigeria’s electricity problems often damage digital equipment.
This issue has slowed the progress of digital initiatives at the university.
“Our electricity supply issues make it hard to maintain our digital systems,” Prof. Ogunsola explained.
The university has deployed a robust Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to improve record management.
This system has eased the process for recent graduates seeking their transcripts.
“We are working hard to ensure that our records are well managed and accessible,” she said.
The Vice Chancellor also discussed the increasing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in academia.
She described AI as both a powerful tool and a potential challenge for educational institutions.
“AI can help us in many ways, but it also poses challenges,” Prof. Ogunsola noted.
She highlighted the importance of developing critical skills to evaluate AI-generated information.
“AI often retrieves a mix of accurate and misleading data,” she cautioned.
The Vice Chancellor urged students and faculty to learn how to assess AI-generated information critically.
“We must equip our students with the skills to discern reliable information,” she stated.
The rising demand for transcripts is not just an issue for UNILAG.
Other Nigerian universities are likely facing similar challenges due to the japa trend.
As more Nigerians seek opportunities abroad, the need for academic records has increased across the country.
The japa trend also raises questions about the future of Nigeria’s education system.
“If many students are leaving, what does that mean for the country’s development?” she asked.
The Vice Chancellor of UNILAG expressed her concern about the implications of this trend.
“We must find ways to retain our talent and ensure our graduates have opportunities at home,” Prof. Ogunsola stated.
She called for a collective effort from the government, universities, and private sectors to address the issues driving emigration.
“Creating more opportunities for our graduates is essential,” she emphasized.
“Education must be aligned with the needs of the job market.”