By
Divine-Mercy Abioye
Night reading
has become a defining feature of academic life within Obafemi
Awolowo University (OAU). Colloquially termed ‘Till Day Break’ or
‘Jacking’, the practice sees students occupying lecture theatres and other
academic spaces long after sunset in a pursuit of concentration, safety, and
academic success.
Across the
campus, it is common to find students reading late into the night in various
lecture halls, faculty buildings, and designated reading areas. While the
university library (Hezekiah Oluwasanmi Library)
traditionally serves as the primary academic space during the day, many
students turn to alternative locations at night, transforming these spaces into
informal study centres. Popular spots include Oduduwa Hall
Lecture Theatre (ODLT), the Law, Social Sciences, and Administration
basements, Amphitheatre (AUD I and II), the Faculty of Agriculture, Awolowo
and Fajuyi Hall Cafeteria, Admin extension, and Motion Ground.
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| Students studying in ODLT at night. |
Night Owl Perspectives
For many
students, nighttime reading offers a quieter environment and improved focus compared to
daytime study. Bukola Fasan, a Food Science and Technology student who lives
off-campus, explained that steady campus lighting and the convenience of
staying overnight make it easier to study effectively.
‘I sometimes stay overnight because the night is
quieter and I can focus better,’ she said. ‘The campus also has steady light,
which really helps with studying.’
Hammed Ajayi, a
student in the Faculty of Law, said that night reading helps him manage his
heavy academic workload and stay motivated.
‘Personally, I do overnight reading because I tend
to assimilate faster at night; seeing other students studying overnight also
keeps me motivated,’ he said.
Security and
Vigilance
Safety remains
a key consideration in students’ choice of
night reading locations. Many students prefer areas they consider secure, such
as lecture theatres with functional lighting and regular student traffic.
Reading in groups is another common practice, as it provides a sense of safety
and shared vigilance during late hours. These locations also offer an environment
more conducive to learning than hostels, which are often crowded and noisy.
For some,
night reading serves as a coping mechanism to deal with limited hours for
reading during the day and to balance extracurricular activities with academic
responsibilities. The sense of community in these spaces often mitigates the
exhaustion that comes with staying up until dawn.
Balancing
Productivity and Health
Night reading
can be highly effective for students who are aware of their personal learning
rhythms. Nocturnal readers, often referred to as ‘night owls’, are naturally
more alert and focused during evening or late-night hours. For these learners,
studying at night can provide an optimal environment for understanding complex
material.
Studies
indicate that reviewing material at night, followed by sleep, can improve
retention. Sleep helps the brain process and store new information, meaning
that students who study before bed may remember material more effectively.
However, it is essential to note that night reading is not suitable for
everyone. Excessive night study and irregular sleep patterns can negatively
affect attention, memory, and overall academic performance.
As academic
demands continue to increase, night reading remains an integral part of student
life within OAU. The culture reflects
not only students’ determination
to succeed but also their ability to overcome challenges. While jacking can
enhance focus for some, it is essential to strike a balance between academic
commitment and personal well-being.
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