By Zainab Bakare

The University of Benin has been plagued with the issue of inappropriate waste disposal in different locations, notably the walkway leading to the Faculty of Arts lecture theatres from the back entrance of the faculty building.

Students, staff, and visitors navigating this path usually encounter overflowing refuse, creating an unpleasant environment accompanied by a noticeable stench.

Despite previous complaints from students of the faculty, effective solutions are yet to be implemented. Interviews with students reveal their dissatisfaction with the continued improper waste management on campus.

In an interview, students were asked about their views on the refuse dump on the pathway to the faculty lecture theatres and what they believe the management of the university should do to ensure proper waste management on campus.

A 200-level student of English and Literature, Comfort Onaiwu, expressed her concern, stating: “The refuse dumping is disturbing, unhygienic, and very unhealthy. The dumps are contributing to the mosquitoes that disturb students who use the faculty’s lecture theatres, especially for night reading.”

She suggested: “Waste bins should be placed in places where students can easily access.”

Emmanuel, a 400-level student of Religions, criticized the situation, saying: “It is wrong. Since I came to this school, this pathway has been the worst, and funny enough, it is hidden, so many people think it is right.”

He suggested: “During holidays, the refuse should be burnt, and a suitable location for refuse dumping should be provided.”

Raphael Agbeyi, another 200-level student of English and Literature, said: “The refuse dump on the pathway to the lecture theatres is nothing to write home about. Refuses are not supposed to be dumped in open spaces. Sometimes students prefer to follow a longer route because of the offensive smell, which is not conducive to a learning environment.”

“It is quite disgusting. Most times, passing there, going to lectures, most of us have to cover our noses not to perceive the stench coming from the dump,” Praise, a 200-level student of Philosophy said.

Praise suggested that, “The University of Benin Management can bring in a waste management team to take out the trash weekly.”

She added: “The provision of waste baskets in that area and a signpost to discourage refuse dumping is a good step.”

The responsible authorities, including the Dean of the Faculty of Arts and the Vice-Chancellor, are urged to address the issue urgently. Students call for intensified efforts in creating a study-friendly and conducive learning environment. Additionally, students have emphasized the urgent need for proper waste management on campus.

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