We face a significant challenge within our hostels, and I firmly believe that a sense of responsibility and literacy should be ingrained in every educated student. However, the behavior of some male students at school hostels disappoints me greatly. We all know that Usmanu Danfodiyo University halls of residence possess impressive structures since their establishment, yet suffer from a lack of maintenance by students.
Our eyes are seeing beyond hundreds of thousands of various issues, especially on the male side of the halls of residence. Not long ago, I narrowly escaped an incident when someone from the second floor carelessly and nearly threw feces on my head late at night, in an area designated for students for washing. While searching for that fellow self-acclaimed educated individual, imagine, I encountered someone who called me and shared me of his similar experience.
Now, did you know that a staggering 90% of male students display irresponsible behavior? Picture entering a bathroom and stepping on various black nylon filled with excrement, despite having toilets.
Even though waste bins are provided in the male hostels, students often neglect to use them, opting instead to litter the surroundings. What should we call this behavior? Are we not the same students who project an image of being ‘big boys’ in front of those beautiful angels on campus? We are rough in hostel but look nice outside to those ladies! What exactly is our problem?
Well, I pity some girls because it is disheartening to see them falling into the traps when they are unaware of the character traits of their chosen partners on campus. How can a student who neglects to sweep his room for two or three weeks be expected to assist with household chores during times of his wife’s illness or need in the future?
Yes, I acknowledge the fact that we can not set a comparison between male and female hostels in terms of cleanliness, but it is worth noting the disparities in amenities such as functional switches for fans. Why do female hostels have properly working switches while male hostels lack them? This mismanagement is a cause for concern because we squander resources and opportunities.
To say the fact, 90% of men residing in school hostels lack a sense of responsibility and proper management. I have witnessed an old man employed for cleaning tasks, diligently washing bathroom tiles, only to see students littering and disposing of bath soap nylon in his presence. What explanation can justify such behavior?
While it is evident that the school management must address certain structural issues and undertake necessary renovations, are we, as students, truly appreciating their efforts? It is time for us to take responsibility and contribute positively.
From the Desk of Abdullateef Abdullahi (Asaliy)
Editor-In-Chief.