A Redeemer's University fresh graduate has penned a heartfelt message to his late father as he finally bagged a bachelor's degree and got inducted into the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE). The young man, Emmanuel Akpakip, shared his touching story on LinkedIn, revealing that he almost gave up on his studies after losing his father months before his final year.
Six-Year Journey to a Bachelor's Degree
Akpakip completed a two-year diploma in Electrical and Electronics Engineering before earning a bachelor's degree in the same field after four years. In his LinkedIn post, he wrote: "6 years in the making. Finally done. 2 years for my Diploma in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, and 4 more for my B.Eng in the same field. Different classrooms, different seasons, but one goal I refused to let go of."
Overcoming Grief and Despair
He admitted that there were many moments he almost gave up. "Times the weight felt too heavy and finishing felt further away than ever. Months before my final year, I lost my dad, and there were days I didn't know how I'd find the strength to keep going. But I kept showing up, one day at a time, because stopping was never really an option," he said.
Akpakip credited his family for their support, stating, "I couldn't have done this without my family. Their support carried me through the moments I couldn't carry myself, and I'll never take that for granted."
Induction into the Nigerian Society of Engineers
During the same period, he was inducted into the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) at Redeemer's University as a Graduate member (GMNSE). He reflected on the significance of this achievement: "Being inducted into The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) at Redeemer's University as a Graduate member (GMNSE), during this same season reminded me that growth isn't only measured in grades. It's measured in character, service, and the willingness to keep going even when it's hard."
A Tribute to His Late Father
Akpakip dedicated his achievement to his late father, writing: "Dad, I know you're proud of me. This one's for you." He also thanked everyone who supported him, including lecturers, mentors, coursemates, and friends, and concluded: "This chapter is closed, but the best is still ahead."
Social Media Reactions
His post garnered congratulatory messages from many. Emmanuel Udenze said, "Congratulations to you, my bro. Great heights." Aderinnola Adekoya commented, "Congratulations, big man." James Samuel added, "Congratulations, Junior." Chiemezie Okoye wrote, "Big congratulations, bro." Princewill Williams said, "My brother! Congratulations man! Can't wait to see the great things you build!" Jolaoluwa Alamu remarked, "Congratulations, my bro. Your dad is definitely proud of you."
Related Success Stories
In a related story, Legit.ng reported that a Redeemer's University graduate who was mocked for his low UTME score had bagged a first-class degree. Additionally, the best graduating student of Redeemer's University, Joel Durugbo, shared the prizes he won and study tips. Joel, who scored 334 in his UTME, revealed that his father was a lecturer at RUN and discussed how that influenced his experience.
