UNIVERSITY/OFFICIAL COMMUNICATION

Unlike high schools, Universities have no assemblies or class meetings where announcements are made. Universities relay to students, staff and other clients any important communication whether it is on upcoming events, timelines, timetables (class and exam), application for bursaries and work studies and deadlines etc. mainly via the University website and memos. So keep checking and learn to distinguish authentic letters from fake ones.

Official memos will always have the institutions letter head, and official signature of the author/office bearer and stamped. Note that not every notice on the notice board is authentic. Some could just be from con men out to get cash from naïve students so be alert and if in doubt kindly confirm with the office of the Dean of students.

Similarly, If you applied for something for example deferment of studies,then you will also receive official response via a letter addressed to you indicating whether deferment has been granted or not. If deferment is granted, then the letter will indicate the duration you are allowed to be away and when you are expected to resume. Same case with exam irregularity and discipline cases, it will always be communicated to you via official letter addressed to you.

So desist from hearsay or going to the wrong people for information. Know your authentic sources of information for example if it is an issue about hostels or accommodation go to the Janitor or house keeper in your hostel, health inquire from the hospital, course work from your department or school, fee balances or payment not reflecting on your portal go to the students finance office, welfare issues for example you are bereaved and would like to go home Dean of students etc. So do not go to just anybody for information.

Lecturers also sometimes communicate through the class whatsapp group, so make sure you are added by the class rep and keep checking notifications so that you do not miss out on important communication e.g. change of venue or time for the lecture, dates for sit in C.A.Ts, and assignments deadlines. If you do not have a smartphone then establish close relationship with some of your classmates who will keep you updated. You will never get away with the excuse that you did not know. It is your responsibility to keep yourself appropriately informed and updated.