The best graduating student of Abiola Ajimobi Technical University, Ibadan, Uthman Uthman Olayode, on Friday, revealed that he failed the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME) five times before he was offered scholarship to study at the university.

Olayode disclosed this during the combined convocation ceremony for the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 academic sessions of the university.

The event was attended by eminent personalities, including Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Adebayo Lawal; the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin who was represented by Aree Egbe Omo Balogun of Ibadanland, Chief Adegboyega Adegoke; the Chancellor of the institution, Dr Tunde Afolabi; the Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr. Kazeem Adesola Adeduntan and the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Professor Adesola Ajayi.

Addressing the gathering, the best student said that no dream is too big to become a reality, and no background is too humble to be liberated by solid education.

Olayode recounted that he faced repeated setbacks in gaining admission to a higher institution and had to sit for the UTME five times, with each attempt full of promise, and each denial a heavy blow.

He added that despite the challenges, he earned 55 A?s and only 2 B?s throughout his university years.

He said: ?I am, therefore, a living proof that no dream is too big to become a reality, and no background is too humble to be liberated by solid education.

?I feel proud to say that my name is Uthman Uthman Olayode, and I am deeply honoured to address you as the overall best graduating student of the 2023/2024 academic session of Abiola Ajimobi Technical University.

?Despite excelling in secondary school, I faced repeated setbacks in gaining admission to a higher institution and had to sit for the UTME five times, with each attempt full of promise, and each denial a heavy blow. I watched classmates gain admission while I remained behind, wondering if my turn would ever come. But faith kept me going.

? And when it was time, God showed me that delays are not denials. On my fifth attempt, I was awarded a scholarship to this esteemed institution to study Physics with Electronics, a course known for its rigour and tough demand.

?Reflecting on my journey, I am reminded that what seems like a delay to us is often the perfect timing in God?s divine plan. Despite the challenges, I persevered, earning 55 As and only 2 Bs throughout my university years. You will give me the privilege to declare that, remarkably, I achieved a perfect 5.0 GPA in six out of eight semesters, five of which were consecutive.

? Additionally, I was honoured to receive three prestigious scholarships: the Federal Government Scholarship Award (FSB) in both my 300 and 400 levels, MTN Foundation Scholarship, and Oyo State bursary for final year students.

?Beyond academics, I had the privilege of serving as the Ameer of the Muslim Students? Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Abiola Ajimobi Technical University chapter, in my final year.

?Despite the numerous challenges and stress that came with leadership, including late-night meetings and travels, I was able to maintain an excellent academic record throughout my tenure. This experience has taught me that serving a higher purpose and sacrificing for a noble cause does not hinder one?s progress, but it rather propels it forward.? (The Guardian)

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