Lagos State University Explains Plan for Large Lectures, says Virtual Delivery Limited to 197 Modules

Lagos State University (LASU) has moved to correct what it described as misleading coverage suggesting the institution was abandoning in-person teaching.

In an official release, the university said only a small proportion of its teaching units will be switched to virtual platforms — a targeted response to overcrowding rather than a blanket move to remote learning.

According to the statement issued by the university’s public relations office, the management’s directive applies principally to courses with very high enrolment figures.

Lectures that register more than 400 students will be organised on approved e-learning systems so that delivery can remain effective without compromising pedagogy or assessment standards.

The university emphasised that tutorials, seminars, laboratory practicals and smaller classes will continue face-to-face on campus.

The release attributed to the deputy registrar and coordinator of the Centre for Information and Public Relations pushed back against reports that students were being ordered to stay away from campus.

“Students are not being asked to remain at home,” the statement said, noting that campus facilities including libraries, laboratories, sports amenities and medical services will remain accessible and that the policy forms part of a blended-learning strategy.

University officials framed the move as a practical response to space constraints in lecture theatres and as an effort to modernise teaching methods.

Management said the shift to online delivery for selected large-capacity modules is intended to improve the quality of learning for courses that struggle with overcrowded auditoriums, and that affected modules constitute only a fraction of the institution’s full course catalogue.

Reaction among students has been mixed. Some welcomed the use of virtual platforms as a sensible way to reduce overcrowding and improve access to recorded materials, while others expressed concern about connectivity, data costs and the readiness of both staff and learners for sustained online instruction.

Observers urged the school to pair the policy with clear timetables, robust technical support and measures to ensure equitable access.

LASU’s clarification follows several recent media reports that drew widespread attention and anxiety among undergraduates and parents.

The university has promised ongoing communication with student representatives and faculty to smooth implementation and address operational issues as the hybrid arrangement is rolled out.