Academic performance triggers student to take own life
By Sabiu Abdullahi
A 400-level student at Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete, identified as Rashidat Shittu, has reportedly taken her own life, allegedly due to academic pressures.
The incident has left the university community in mourning and disbelief.
According to reports from Shittu’s friends on condition of anonymity, the deceased took her life in anticipation of upcoming exams by consuming insecticide.
Despite being rushed to the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital for urgent medical attention, Shittu was pronounced dead upon arrival, adding to the sorrow and shock.
Sources close to the situation revealed that Shittu had been grappling with academic challenges, which may have contributed to her decision.
She had allegedly confided in her peers about her struggles before tragically resorting to suicide.
Even though efforts were made to save her life, she succumbed to the effects of the poison.
A member of the medical team at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, who preferred anonymity, disclosed that Shittu was already deceased.
The grim circumstances surrounding her death underscore the gravity of mental health issues among students, especially concerning academic stress.
The solemn Janazah ceremony for the deceased took place at the Muslim cemetery in Osere, Ilorin, where she was laid to rest by her grieving family members and university staff from the students’ affairs unit.
When approached for comment, KWASU’s Director of University Relations, Dr. Saeedat Aliyu, expressed unawareness of the student’s demise.
She pledged to investigate the matter and provide further details once confirmed by relevant authorities, highlighting the need for official confirmation amid the tragedy.