Igbinedion University Graduate Celebrates First-Class Degree After Overcoming Admission Hurdles
A graduate of Igbinedion University has captured widespread attention on social media after sharing her remarkable academic journey, which culminated in a first-class degree despite significant setbacks. The young lady, identified as Bliss Celestine, revealed that she wrote the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and West African Examinations Council (WAEC) exams four times each before finally securing admission through direct entry.
Persistent Efforts Lead to Academic Excellence
In a viral LinkedIn post, Celestine detailed her struggles with the Nigerian education system, including a seven-year delay in her academic pursuits. She expressed initial doubts about her ability to perform at a high level after such a long break from formal schooling. However, her determination paid off as she graduated with an impressive CGPA of 4.93, earning First Class Honours in International Relations and Strategic Studies.
Key achievements highlighted in her post include:
- Best Graduating Student in the College of Arts and Social Sciences
- Best Student in International Relations and Strategic Studies
- Student President of the International Relations Department for a term
Awards and Recognitions
During her time at the university, Celestine amassed several awards, showcasing her leadership and academic prowess. These include:
- Best Student President
- Most Influential Student President
- Most Humanitarian Award
- Academic Excellence Award for three consecutive sessions
She reflected on her journey, stating, "I can’t believe this is my reality. Oh, scratch that! I actually can. I worked for it." Celestine emphasized the challenges of balancing work and self-funding her education at a university with high tuition fees, noting that studying through tiredness and tears was not easy.
Inspiring Message to Others
Celestine recalled telling her Head of Department upon admission, "I’m not here to exist. I’m here to live, make a name, and leave with a First Class." Her story serves as an inspiration to many, as she concluded, "If I could rise after seven silent years, so can you." This narrative resonates with other Nigerian students who have faced similar obstacles, highlighting the resilience required to succeed in the country's competitive education landscape.
