By Adekunle-Oni Daniel
In the election held on January 16, 2025, Olaode Khalid, who went unopposed, was elected as the Assistant General Secretary for the Renewable Natural Resources Students Association with 245 votes. Mr. Khalid presented a three-plan agenda for the post of the Assistant General Secretary.
Mr. Khalid’s first plan was the introduction of Freshers Help Desk. The help desk was aimed at being the information hub for the incoming students, providing guidance on academic and extracurricular activities.
However, the duties assigned to the help desk seemed exaggerated, as the help desk had difficulties helping the students settle into their hostels as promised in the manifesto.
“The help desk operated informally but effectively, despite limitations. One area we struggled with was supporting freshmen with hostel logistics and settling” Mr. Khalid told RENARSA Press.
In his plan to fulfill a constitutional duty, overseeing the association’s tutorials, Mr. Khalid planned to create an inclusive and engaging academic environment by ensuring well structured tutorials, implementing peer to peer learning, and organizing quiz occasionally to test the level of the effectiveness of the tutorials. The tutorials were carried out by Mr. Khalid in the first semester for the freshers; to help them get familiar with the courses they were offering in their 100 level.
However, Mr. Khalid has been faced with challenges with properly carrying out the tutorials. Speaking with RENARSA Press, “Yes, Challenges have been encountered during the course of our tutorials ranging from unavailability of enough tutors, nonchalance, and apathy from the part of the students…”
Beyond the classroom, Mr. Khalid planned to introduce the freshmen to articles on various topics ranging from leadership, politics, and benefits of the faculty. However, Mr. Khalid has failed till now to provide proof of giving the freshmen an article for these topics.
In his defense, the reason for not providing any article to the freshmen was not to overwhelm them with other issues, as they are just settling in the campus. “I had a rethink on the article initiative, considering it might overwhelm our freshmen students who are still adjusting to campus life. While I included it in my manifesto, I believe it is essential to prioritize their needs and avoid unnecessary stress.” Mr. Khalid responded.
Mr. Khalid has had a session of activities and hopes that other students that would pick up his position would find more ways to work on lapses done.
“As student leaders, we learn and unlearn. Perhaps the next AGS might revisit and assess these ideas later or explore alternative ways to engage students.” Mr. Khalid mentioned.
RENARSA PRESS UI 