Redefine yourselves, Arosanyin urges colleagues
By Mustafa Abubakar
Academic staff of the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ilorin, have been urged to redefine themselves, uphold the highest standards of professionalism, and recognise the University as a rule-guided model environment where no one is insignificant.
This call was made last Tuesday (February 24, 2026) by a former Director of Academic Planning of the University, Prof. G. T. Arosanyin, while delivering a paper at a Workshop on work ethics organised by the Faculty at its Boardroom.
In his paper, titled “University Regulations, Work Ethics and the Conduct of Academic Staff,” Prof. Arosanyin, who teaches at the Department of Economics, examined the institutional foundations guiding academic responsibilities.
Referencing the typical appointment letter clause, “The duties of your post shall be as directed by your Head of Department,” he explained that it defines accountability and scope of responsibility within the University system.
He highlighted the symbolism of the University’s insignia: the sun representing the diffusion of knowledge, the book symbolising wisdom, the eagle signifying strength of character, and the motto Probitas Doctrina, underscoring integrity and moral excellence in teaching and learning. The University colours—navy blue, green, and gold—depict peace, productivity, and excellence.
Prof. Arosanyin defined regulations as prescribed rules maintained by authority, while ethics are moral principles governing behaviour. Work ethic, he noted, involves maintaining high standards, acting morally, and doing the right thing at the right time. He stressed that regulations enable the University to achieve its core mandates of teaching, research, and community service.
On teaching, Prof. Arosanyin emphasised compliance with standards approved by the National Universities Commission(NUC), noting the transition from BMAS to CCMAS at the beginning of the 2023/2024 academic session.
Prof. Arosanyin outlined responsibilities including proper examination setting, confidential handling of materials, fair marking using approved guides, appropriate invigilation, and accurate result processing.
On research, the former Director urged originality, value addition to knowledge, and strict avoidance of plagiarism.
He encouraged the use of plagiarism detection tools such as Turnitin and iThenticate, warning against predatory journals and unethical publication practices. Ethical considerations involving human and animal subjects were also emphasised.
He outlined sources of University regulations, including the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Public Service and Financial Regulations, and internal instruments such as the University Act, Staff Conditions of Service, the Orange and Blue Books, and Senate-approved policies.
Citing Chapter Eight of the Conditions of Service for Senior Staff (30 June 2023), Prof. Arosanyin categorised misconduct into general and serious offences, including dishonesty, negligence, corruption, plagiarism, examination malpractice, sexual harassment, falsification of records, unauthorised academic programmes, and violation of oath of secrecy. Sanctions range from warnings and suspension to dismissal and termination of appointment.
He urged his colleagues to demonstrate integrity at all times, read and understand regulations, consult when in doubt, play by the rules, and ultimately retire in peace.
In his paper, titled “Sexual Harassment Law and the Implications for Lecturer–Students Relationship,” Prof. Abdulfatai Oladapo Sambo of the Faculty of Law examined the legal and ethical dimensions of lecturer–student interactions.
He noted that while the relationship is fundamentally a professional academic partnership, inherent power imbalances require strict ethical compliance.
Referencing the University’s Sexual Harassment Policy (2024), Prof. Sambo outlined verbal, non-verbal, physical, and digital forms of harassment.
He cited relevant Nigerian laws including the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act and the Sexual Harassment of Students (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, which introduce stricter criminal liabilities. He stressed that while the law strengthens student protection, institutions must also ensure fair hearing for accused lecturers.
Delivering a paper, titled “Gender-Based Differences and the Demand of Academic Staff in a University Environment,” Prof. Deborah S. Adekeye of the Department of Sociology examined work–life balance challenges in academia.
Drawing on established theoretical frameworks, she analysed time-based and strain-based conflicts experienced by academics, noting that heavy teaching loads, administrative pressure, research deadlines, and family responsibilities contribute to stress.
Prof. Adekeye recommended clearer work–home boundaries, mentorship, disciplined lifestyle choices, regular health checks, and avoidance of unhealthy rivalry.
She also advocated gender-friendly institutional policies, including workload management, transparent promotion processes, improved staff welfare, digital flexibility, research support, and employee assistance programmes.
Echoing concerns raised at a recent NEC meeting of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, she emphasised that no deadline or publication is worth sacrificing one’s health for.
Earlier in his remarks, the Dean of the Faculty, Prof. A. Y. Muhammed, described ethical conduct as obligatory rather than optional in a University environment.
Quoting the maxim that ethics distinguishes between what one has a right to do and what is right to do, he reminded staff that ignorance of the law is no excuse and urged familiarity with institutional regulations.
The workshop was attended by over 70 members of staff from the Faculty and others.
