Covenant University Reaffirms Strict Campus Policies, Igniting Debate on Discipline vs. Control

Covenant University has once again reaffirmed its campus policies for the 2025 academic year, a move that has sparked renewed attention from students, parents, and education stakeholders. The private Christian institution has signaled that it has no intention of relaxing its long-standing rules, insisting they are essential to upholding its academic and spiritual ethos.

Central to the debate is the policy that students are not allowed to use mobile phones or SIM-enabled devices on campus. According to the school, this measure is designed to “reduce distractions and promote a more disciplined academic environment.” Instead, learners can only make use of laptops, iPads, tablets, and cameras provided these gadgets do not support SIM card connectivity.

Similarly, the university stressed that cooking remains prohibited within student halls of residence. Officials explained that the restriction is to “ensure food safety, minimize fire risks, and maintain hygiene standards across hostels.” “Students are not allowed to prepare their own meals anywhere on campus,” the administration reiterated, insisting that all meals must be purchased through the school’s cafeterias.

The reminder has continued to generate debate among parents and students. While Covenant insists the policies are meant to instill focus, discipline, and orderliness, many have argued that they impose unnecessary limitations on young adults. For some students, the absence of personal phones and the inability to cook in hostels remain points of contention, especially in an age where digital connectivity and independence are increasingly vital. The debate now rests on whether these measures represent genuine discipline or an outdated form of control in today’s learning environment.