‘Students are Graded Based on Academic Performance’ – FSS Dean Dismisses Claims of Unfair Grading

By Vanessa Foubri, Ajibola Oyindamola, Toriola Olayinka, Eyiowuawi Rukayat

The Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Lagos (UNILAG), Professor Adelaja Odukoya, says grades are awarded to students based on performance, dismissing claims that the faculty’s grading system is unfair. 

Speaking with UNILAG Sun, Adelaja, noted that students are not graded based on luck or favouritism, but perceptions of unfairness usually occur only when students receive low marks.

“You cannot complain about low grading, because marks are not dashed,” he said.

“ When a student gets an A, they say, ‘I got an A.’

“ When it is an E, the narrative becomes, ‘I was given an E.”

He noted that students who are confident in their academic performance have no reason to plead with lecturers for marks, as the university has a legitimate procedure for academic appeals.

“If you are dissatisfied with your grade, follow the university process,” he said.

“Write a letter, and pay the necessary fee. Your script will be given to somebody else to grade.”

Adelaja noted that the faculty’s collective efforts have earned them recognition, adding that the Faculty of Social Sciences is now regarded as one of the most outstanding faculties at the University, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence.

“The records show that as a team and as a faculty, we’ve moved beyond where we were,” he said.

“ We have raised the bar as to what can be done.

“And it’s not just about the faculty; it’s in terms of students’ experience, readiness for exams, and facilities.”

Speaking on how the faculty plans to support students, Adelaja said that there are structures and one-on-one interactions in place to guide students through academic challenges and improve their overall experience.

He added that the faculty is planning to automate students’ experience with digital tools and equip them with skills, especially in the use of artificial intelligence (AI), adding that this will reduce the time required to complete certain academic tasks.