The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially declared Thursday, 19th March 2026, and Friday, 20th March 2026 as public holidays in celebration of the Eid-el-Fitr festival, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. These national holidays provide an opportunity for Muslims across the country to observe religious rituals, celebrate with family, and engage in charitable acts, reflecting the values of peace, generosity, and communal harmony.
In light of this declaration, the Management of the Distance Learning Institute (DLI), University of Lagos (UNILAG) wishes to formally inform all students, faculty, and staff that all online classes scheduled for Saturday, 21st March 2026, will be suspended. This temporary suspension is intended to allow staff and students the opportunity to fully participate in the festivities, spend quality time with their families, and engage in spiritual reflection without the pressure of academic commitments.
Purpose of the Suspension
The suspension of online classes during this period aligns with the University’s commitment to ensuring a balanced academic experience that respects religious observances. Specifically, the objectives of the suspension include:
- Enabling Staff Participation: Academic and administrative staff at the DLI often play crucial roles in facilitating online lectures, managing course content, and providing technical support. The break ensures they can celebrate Eid-el-Fitr fully and safely.
- Supporting Students’ Observances: Distance Learning students often balance academic activities with professional or personal responsibilities. By suspending classes during the holiday period, the University ensures students can engage in religious, cultural, and family activities without disruption.
- Promoting Wellbeing: The University recognizes the importance of mental and physical well-being. A short break following an intensive academic schedule allows students and staff to rejuvenate, thereby improving focus and productivity in subsequent academic sessions.
Scope of the Suspension
The notice specifically applies to all online Saturday classes scheduled on March 21, 2026, under the DLI Academic Calendar. It is important to note that:
- This suspension is temporary and does not affect ongoing coursework, assignments, or assessment deadlines beyond the specified date.
- Normal academic activities, including online lectures, discussions, and examinations, will resume according to the pre-existing schedule after the holiday period.
Students and staff are therefore advised to adjust their personal schedules accordingly and plan for the temporary pause in lectures.
Responsibilities of Staff and Students During the Break
While online classes are suspended, the University encourages students and staff to utilize the break productively and responsibly:
- Students:
- Ensure completion of any pending assignments or preparatory work in advance of the holiday.
- Engage in personal study, reflection, and revision where possible, without compromising participation in the Eid celebrations.
- Remain attentive to announcements and updates via the official DLI portal to avoid missing subsequent directives or rescheduled activities.
- Faculty and Administrative Staff:
- Ensure that online course materials are up-to-date before the break.
- Communicate with students regarding any adjustments to schedules or deadlines following the holiday.
- Use the break period for administrative planning, course development, and professional development activities.
Resumption of Academic Activities
The University Management has emphasized that all academic activities will resume immediately following the holiday period. Online classes, faculty-student interactions, assessments, and administrative tasks will continue as scheduled from Monday, 22nd March 2026, ensuring that no academic delays occur as a result of the brief suspension.
Students are urged to monitor the DLI portal and other official communication channels for any updates related to class resumption, assessment schedules, or other academic requirements. The University also reminds students that compliance with these guidelines is crucial for maintaining a smooth and organized academic session.
University Commitment to Community and Religious Observances
The DLI Management reiterates its commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment that respects the diverse religious and cultural backgrounds of its students and staff. By suspending online classes during the Eid-el-Fitr public holidays, UNILAG demonstrates its understanding of the spiritual and social significance of this celebration, while also promoting a culture of balance between academic rigor and personal observance.
Furthermore, the University encourages all students and staff to uphold the values of peace, kindness, and communal harmony during the festivities. This includes exercising care in public celebrations, supporting charitable initiatives, and promoting understanding and tolerance among peers and within the wider community.
Official Notice
This notice serves as the authoritative directive on the matter and is to be strictly observed by all students and staff of the DLI. Any deviation from the instructions outlined herein may result in misunderstandings or disruption to academic activities. The official communication regarding the suspension of online classes is signed by:
Olanitori, O.S
Institute Secretary
Distance Learning Institute
University of Lagos