From Rejection to Record-Breaker: LASU’s Best Graduating Student Thought She Had Failed in Life

In an inspiring twist of fate, Miss Isioma Nwosu, who once believed she had failed in life after missing out on her dream course, emerged as the Overall Best Graduating Student of Lagos State University (LASU) for the 2023/2024 academic session with an astounding CGPA of 4.93.

Nwosu, a graduate of Biochemistry, captivated the audience with her moving valedictory speech at LASU’s 28th Convocation Ceremony, held at the university’s main campus in Ojo.

“I thought I had failed in life,” she confessed, recounting the heartbreak of not gaining admission to study Medicine and Surgery—her lifelong ambition.

After finishing secondary school as her set’s valedictorian in 2019, Nwosu faced a major blow: she scored just two points below the cut-off mark to study Medicine at the University of Ibadan. The setback forced her to retake UTME, a decision she said left her humiliated and defeated.

“A valedictorian writing UTME again? It was a bitter pill to swallow,” she recalled.

When she eventually reapplied to study Medicine and Surgery—this time at LASU—fate again dealt her a curveball. She was offered Biochemistry, a course she admitted she had “never heard of” until that moment.

“My heart broke a second time. I couldn’t embrace the course at first,” she said.

But through perseverance, and the encouragement of her lecturers and friends, Isioma not only embraced Biochemistry—she excelled beyond all expectations, finishing top of a graduating class of 11,917 students.

“Dreams Can Be Delayed, Not Denied”

In a stirring message to fellow graduates and aspiring students, Nwosu urged young people not to abandon their dreams in the face of rejection or redirection.

“Never be afraid of having big dreams. Your dreams are the seeds of greatness. You are resilient, capable, and prepared for the future,” she said.

She also stressed the importance of surrounding oneself with “friends of value, vision, and ambition.”

VC Urges Graduates to Shape Their Legacy

In her address, LASU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, praised the class of 2023/2024, reminding them that they hold the pen to write the next chapter of their lives.

“You’ve demonstrated excellence in both character and learning. Now use that knowledge to drive meaningful change,” she charged.

The university awarded diplomas, degrees, and certificates across various disciplines, celebrating not just academic success but stories of resilience and transformation—none more powerful than that of Isioma Nwosu, who turned disappointment into distinction.

NAPS Applauds Progress on Bill to Abolish HND-Bachelor’s Degree Dichotomy

The National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), under the leadership of Comrade Oyewumi Festus Ayomide, has expressed strong support for the bill seeking to abolish the longstanding disparity between Higher National Diploma (HND) holders and Bachelor’s degree graduates.

The bill, which recently passed its second reading in the House of Representatives, is seen as a crucial step toward promoting educational equality and ensuring that all Nigerian students receive fair recognition, regardless of their institution or degree type.

In a statement, NAPS reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for polytechnic students’ rights and called on lawmakers to expedite the process to ensure the bill becomes law.

“As an association, we have always championed the interests of polytechnic students. The passage of this bill will be a major milestone in our efforts to secure equal opportunities for all graduates,” Comrade Oyewumi Festus Ayomide stated.

He emphasized that under his leadership, NAPS has made significant strides in pushing for reforms that benefit its members. He also urged all stakeholders, including the government, educational institutions, and civil society organizations, to rally behind the bill to create a more inclusive and equitable education system.

NAPS reiterated its unwavering commitment to supporting the bill’s passage and expressed optimism that it would pave the way for a brighter future for all Nigerian students.

Meet Eniola Olushola, the newest MSc sociologist from the University of Oye Ekiti

~By Oluwaseun Fabiyi

Eniola Olushola’s career journey demonstrates the impact of ongoing education and deliberate self-improvement in meeting the constantly changing requirements of the modern industry

Eniola has consistently proven his ability to deliver innovative solutions and drive impactful change through a unique blend of humanitarian expertise and executive leadership training

Eniola Olushola began his academic pursuits with a bachelor’s degree from a prestigious university in Nigeria and later earned a master’s degree in sociology from the Federal University of Oye, Ekiti, driven by a growing interest in sustainability and environmental stewardship

The accomplishment bolstered his expertise in addressing multifaceted humanitarian and environmental issues within industrial settings, firmly establishing him as a leading authority in his field of expertise

Eniola Olushola has demonstrated a consistent commitment to self-advancement, recognizing the essential function of leadership in navigating the complexities of today’s fast-paced business landscape and humanitarian issues, and has acquired the necessary expertise to effectively cater to the changing needs in Nigeria and Africa

Additionally, his outstanding leadership is unmatched and his contribution to society is significantly substantial to be overlooked

Eniola Olushola has emerged as a leader with a deep understanding of African resourcefulness needs and the ability to drive innovation, foster growth, and lead with purpose through his transformative experiences in a highly competitive global environment

Eniola Olushola’s relentless pursuit of education demonstrates his dedication to amplifying his positive influence on our society. Through ongoing upskilling, he has empowered himself to address evolving business needs with ease

His acumen in top-tier programs reflects his commitment to balancing academic rigor with practical leadership

Eniola Olushola has achieved something remarkable at the academy and really deserves big congratulations.

Oluwaseun Fabiyi a seasoned journalist writes from Lagos.