Caleb University Graduate Triumphs Over Academic Setback to Earn First Class Honors
A remarkable story of perseverance and academic excellence has emerged from Caleb University, where a graduate has achieved a First Class degree in Computer Science despite previously failing the subject during her secondary school education. Precious Akinnukawe took to social media to share her emotional and challenging journey, inspiring many with her determination and resilience.
From Secondary School Failure to University Excellence
Precious Akinnukawe revealed that during her secondary school years, she failed Computer Studies, a subject that would later become her academic focus at the university level. This initial setback did not deter her from pursuing higher education, though her path to success was far from straightforward. She explained that Computer Science was never her intended field of study, having initially aspired to enroll in Estate Management at the University of Lagos.
"I went from being the girl who failed Computer Studies in secondary school to graduating First Class in Computer Science," Akinnukawe stated in her social media post. "And nothing about this journey was easy, planned, or smooth."
Unexpected Admission and Personal Struggles
When UNILAG did not offer her admission for Estate Management, Akinnukawe's father encouraged her to apply to a private university. She attended an interview at Caleb University and was admitted on the same day, marking the beginning of her Computer Science journey. Ironically, one week later, UNILAG offered her admission for the exact course she had originally wanted, leading to significant emotional distress.
"I remember crying so hard that night. I felt cheated by life," she recalled. "I didn't understand Computer Science. I didn't even know where to start. I felt lost, scared, and trapped in a future I never chose."
Academic Challenges and Personal Loss
Akinnukawe's academic journey was marked by fluctuations in her performance. At one point, her grades dropped from First Class to Second Class Upper, causing her to question her path. However, she persevered, pushing herself to improve despite the difficulties. The most devastating challenge came when she lost her father, her primary supporter and hero, during her studies.
"That loss shattered me," she shared. "There were days I didn't think I would survive school without him. I felt empty. I felt weak. I wanted to quit so many times. But somehow... I stayed."
Triumphant Conclusion and Inspiring Message
Through determination, faith, and the support of friends, Akinnukawe managed to overcome her grief and academic struggles. She ultimately graduated with a First Class degree in Computer Science, achieving what once seemed impossible given her secondary school failure in the subject.
"Today, I stand here a First Class graduate. Not because I was the smartest. But because I refused to give up even when life tried to break me," she declared. "This is for you, Daddy. I hope I made you proud. And to anyone who feels lost, delayed, or broken—sometimes the journey that hurts the most ends up shaping you the most."
Broader Context of Nigerian Academic Excellence
Akinnukawe's story joins several other inspiring narratives of Nigerian students overcoming obstacles to achieve academic excellence. Recent reports have highlighted similar achievements, including:
- A graduate from Obafemi Awolowo University who rose from a 2.92 CGPA in her first year to graduate with first-class honors in Animal Science
- A Federal University Oye-Ekiti graduate who earned a first-class degree in Mathematics with a 4.59 CGPA while receiving an ASUU scholarship
- A University of Lagos student with a 4.93 CGPA who won a Bet9ja scholarship after multiple rejections
These stories collectively demonstrate the resilience and determination of Nigerian students in pursuing academic success despite various challenges and setbacks.
