OAU medical student slumps, dies during viva exam

A 400-level medical student of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Adewole Emmanuel, has died after reportedly collapsing during his oral examination on campus.

The incident occurred on Wednesday at the university’s College of Health Sciences in Ile-Ife, Osun State, just moments before the student began his clinical viva session.

Eyewitness accounts and student union statements indicated that he slumped suddenly and was quickly attended to by lecturers and colleagues present at the venue.

He was rushed for medical attention but was later confirmed dead, a development that plunged the campus into mourning.

In a statement issued by the Great Ife Students’ Union, the death was described as a painful shock that has deeply affected the student community, especially his classmates in the 400-level medical and dental class.

The union expressed condolences to the family, noting that the loss has raised renewed concern about the intense pressure faced by medical students in the course of their training.

“It is important to state that this heartbreaking incident brings to the forefront the immense physical, emotional, and psychological toll that rigorous academic demands can take on students,” the statement said.

The Medical Students’ Association of the university also confirmed the death, describing the late student as a promising future doctor whose life was cut short at a critical stage of his career.

Meanwhile, the university management said it has begun consultations with relevant stakeholders and the bereaved family to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

In a statement, the university spokesperson said the student had complained of chest pain during the examination before he was attended to by staff and students, but efforts to revive him were unsuccessful.

Tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues and friends, who described him as brilliant, humble, and committed to his medical journey.