Tragedy Strikes Babcock University as Final-Year Student Takes Own Life After Suspension for Exam Malpractice
A devastating incident has rocked Babcock University, where a 400-level Computer Science student, Joshua Lawson, tragically took his own life after being suspended for a year over alleged examination malpractice. The 20-year-old student was just a month away from graduating when he received the suspension notice.
The incident
Lawson reportedly took his life on Wednesday at his family home in Lagos, days after learning of his suspension by the university’s disciplinary committee. The university’s Director of Communication and Marketing, Dr. Joshua Suleiman, confirmed the incident, stating that Lawson had been found guilty of examination misconduct and handed a one-year academic suspension.Dr. Suleiman expressed the university’s deep regret over the tragedy, emphasizing that the institution’s policies are in line with standard practices. “The university is never happy that anyone dies, in fact, we wish this never happened and we commiserate with the family,” he said. However, many students have taken to social media to criticize the university’s disciplinary measures, calling for more humane policies.
Student outcry
One student wrote, “How can someone be so close to the finish line just a month to their convocation, and suddenly, everything gets ripped away because of an ‘exam misconduct’ case? Two years’ suspension? Cancelling an entire semester? That’s not just punishment… that’s destruction.” Many are questioning the university’s approach, asking where the compassion and support are for students struggling with academic pressure .
This tragic incident highlights the growing concerns about mental health, academic pressure, and disciplinary actions in Nigerian higher education institutions. Lawson’s death serves as a wake-up call for universities to reassess their policies and provide more support for students struggling with academic stress.
The loss of Joshua Lawson is a stark reminder of the need for compassion and understanding in academic institutions. As the Babcock University community mourns the loss of one of its students, it is essential to reflect on the impact of disciplinary actions on students’ mental health and well-being.