Dr. Sunday Zaccheaus Saanu's story is a powerful testament to resilience in the face of systemic bias. After obtaining a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Mass Communication from Ogun State Polytechnic (now Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta) and working for a decade in print journalism, he was compelled to return to school due to widespread discrimination against polytechnic graduates.
The Catalyst: Facing the HND Stigma
Saanu's decision to chart an academic recovery plan was born from painful experience. He lamented the condescending attitude and lack of parity of esteem faced by HND holders in Nigerian workplaces and academic circles. He described the HND certificate as being unfairly viewed as "a road to nowhere, a kind of academic cul-de-sac." This discrimination, which he called insidious, constrained his potential and motivated his pursuit of higher qualifications.
The 14-Year Academic Recovery Journey
Saanu's path to redemption was long and arduous. It began after his employer, Champion newspaper, transferred him from Lagos to Oyo State. Seizing the opportunity, he enrolled at the University of Ibadan (UI). His journey unfolded in distinct phases:
- He first completed a professional Masters in Communication and Language Arts (MCA) in 2002/2003.
- Immediately after, he took a Direct Entry form to begin an undergraduate degree at the 200 level, earning a Bachelor of Arts in 2007.
- By 2009, he had obtained a Master of Arts (M.A).
- His academic perseverance culminated in the award of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
This journey spanned 14 years, during which he faced significant financial hardship, going seven years without a paid job while still managing family responsibilities. He credited divine providence and the support of benefactors like Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, Chief Wole Olanipekun, and others for seeing him through.
PhD Focus and Life Lessons
Dr. Saanu's doctoral research was titled 'Survival Strategies of Selected Newspapers in Nigeria.' The study examined how legacy print media like the Nigerian Tribune, The Punch, and The Guardian are adapting to digital disruption. Key recommendations included media houses diversifying into sectors like real estate and hospitality, and journalists continuously updating their technological skills.
Reflecting on his ordeal, Saanu stated that life taught him that valuable achievements demand self-discipline, struggle, and persistence. He advised Nigerian youth against seeking success without sacrifice, emphasizing that "living without purpose is like traveling without a destination." He urged the government to conclusively address the damaging HND and university degree dichotomy that continues to limit countless citizens.
