Nigerian Mother Triumphs Over Adversity to Earn UNILAG Master's Degree
In an inspiring tale of perseverance and resilience, a Nigerian mother has successfully completed her Master's degree in Mass Communication at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), years after initially abandoning her academic pursuits. Latifat Olatoun Gbadamosi's journey serves as a powerful testament to the importance of never giving up on one's dreams, regardless of life's challenges.
A Journey Interrupted by Life's Responsibilities
Latifat's academic journey began in 2019 when she first gained admission to UNILAG for her Master's programme. However, her plans were abruptly halted when she discovered she was pregnant with her first child. The evening classes proved particularly challenging, with one late return home prompting her husband to insist they postpone her studies indefinitely. "Another time sluggishly never came," she recalled in a heartfelt Facebook post, describing how the opportunity seemed to slip away.
Two years later, she attempted to resume her education, but circumstances once again prevented her from continuing. This second setback led her to temporarily abandon her academic aspirations, resigning herself to the belief that perhaps the timing was never right.
International Attempt and Financial Hurdles
Not one to be easily discouraged, Latifat explored alternative educational pathways. She enrolled in an online Master's programme at Liverpool John Moores University through Unicaf, encouraged by an influencer's recommendation. Despite securing an 80% scholarship, the remaining £2,000 fee presented a significant financial challenge.
The programme allowed payment in installments, which initially seemed manageable. However, as time progressed, Latifat found herself unable to sustain the payments, forcing her to withdraw from the programme. "It hurt me but what can I do," she expressed, highlighting the emotional toll of yet another academic interruption.
The 2024 Comeback and Ultimate Success
By 2024, Latifat felt a growing sense of unfulfillment with her daily routine. Her instincts told her she needed intellectual stimulation and classroom interaction. "My soul thrives better where knowledge is involved," she explained, describing her decision to return to UNILAG as a necessary step toward personal growth.
This time, she followed through with unwavering determination, navigating the demands of motherhood and academic rigor simultaneously. Her perseverance paid off when she finally graduated, sharing her achievement through a convocation photoshoot on social media that quickly captured public attention.
Social Media Celebration and Public Reaction
Latifat's Facebook post detailing her journey garnered widespread admiration and congratulations from netizens. Comments poured in celebrating her achievement as an encouragement to others facing similar challenges.
- Moroofat Akodu remarked: "This is encouraging."
- Nasir Shile Arewa offered congratulations while sharing another UNILAG graduation story within his family.
- Basirat Adesayo wished her "more and more blessings inshallah."
- Abimbola Durojaiye found inspiration, declaring: "I will surely do mine age, money can't be an obstacle. Amen."
- Sama'ila Yunusa Dan-Mairo praised her perseverance: "Well done for not giving up."
A Message of Hope and Perseverance
In her concluding remarks, Latifat offered powerful advice to anyone facing obstacles in pursuing their dreams: "I say to you, don't give up on what your heart beats for. God is time." Her story transcends academic achievement, serving as a broader narrative about resilience, timing, and the importance of listening to one's inner calling.
Her experience mirrors that of other UNILAG graduates who have overcome significant challenges, including health issues and personal struggles, to achieve academic excellence. These collective stories highlight the transformative power of education and determination within Nigeria's academic landscape.
