Uthman Uthman Olayode, the top graduating student of Abiola Ajimobi Technical University, Ibadan, shared his inspiring journey after graduating on Friday. He revealed that he faced significant challenges, having failed the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME) five times before finally receiving a scholarship to study at the university.
Olayode made these remarks during the joint convocation ceremony for the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 academic sessions, attended by notable figures such as Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, represented by Deputy Governor Adebayo Lawal; the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, represented by Chief Adegboyega Adegoke; Chancellor Dr. Tunde Afolabi; Governing Council Chairman Dr. Kazeem Adesola Adeduntan; and Vice Chancellor Professor Adesola Ajayi.
In his address, Olayode emphasized that no dream is unattainable and that even the humblest backgrounds can be transformed through quality education. He recounted the numerous setbacks he faced in his pursuit of higher education, explaining that each of his five attempts at taking the UTME was filled with hope, only to culminate in disappointment.
He watched as peers moved forward into university life while he remained behind, questioning when his opportunity would arrive. Nevertheless, he maintained his faith.“When the time was right, God proved to me that delays do not equate to denials,” he said. “On my fifth attempt, I was awarded a scholarship to study Physics with Electronics at this prestigious institution, a program renowned for its rigor and demands.
Reflecting on his academic journey, Olayode acknowledged that what often feels like a delay can be part of a greater divine plan.
He achieved remarkable academic success, earning 55 As and only two Bs throughout his university career.
He proudly stated that he maintained a perfect 5.0 GPA in six out of eight semesters, achieving five consecutive semesters at this level.
In addition to his academic accolades, he received three notable scholarships: the Federal Government Scholarship Award for both his third and fourth years, the MTN Foundation Scholarship, and the Oyo State bursary for final-year students. Beyond academics, Olayode served as the Ameer of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN) at his university during his final year.
He noted that the demands of leadership—late-night meetings, travels, and various stresses—did not detract from his academic achievements. Instead, he found that committing to a higher purpose and making sacrifices for a noble cause only propelled his progress further.
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