How I Achieved Excellence After Failing JAMB FOUR TIMES – Crawford Best Graduating Student

Samuel Ogunlana emerged best graduating student in the last academic session at Crawford University, Ogun State, capping off his four-year Political Science programme with 4.94 CGPA. In this interview with, Kabir Adejumo, Samuel, 24, narrated the story behind his academic excellence, after failing UTME four times. Excerpts:

CR: Despite failing four times in JAMB, you became the best graduating student this year in Crawford. How did you achieve this greatness?

Ogunlana: Well, the greatness began in 2013 after I was offered admission to study Political Science in Crawford. As somebody who was at home for 4 years before the success, I set a quick picture of what I want to achieve in the next 4 years. I became conscious of my goal and was guided be Almighty.

CR: What was your biggest challenge during your undergraduate days?

Ogunlana: See, Private higher institutions have become a force to reckon due to rooted curriculum and calendar. Not just that, as a product of faith based institution, moral values are taken with utmost importance which makes it difficult for youth because most of us will always do things of the world. I did not have major challenge because I am naturally disciplined and so I did not find any of the university orders difficult.

CR: What do you have to say about the effectiveness and efficiency of Nigeria academic curriculum?

Ogunlana: We are getting better as more institutions are been established and our graduate are competitive worldwide. But, our stakeholders must also create room for improvement on how to tackle certain problem of the country. The government needs to give more enabling environment for young and old to have access to quality education.

CR: Are you ready for labour market, considering the fact that many people say Education system in Nigeria fails to prepare students for labour market?

Ogunlana: Very well prepared. I want to further my education, go into politics and give back to my society. It is time we realise that it is not enough to be mere hope of the country but spirit of patriotism must be reignited in us.