By Sulaiman Aishat
In the realm of academic pursuits, encountering challenges is a common occurrence. These difficulties can range from financial constraints to misinformation about educational institutions, and more. While such hurdles can either pave the way for success or thwart one’s aspirations, my story exemplifies how failure to secure admission led to numerous achievements.
As a recent graduate from secondary school and a former senior prefect, all eyes were on Rasheedat anticipating her immediate admission into a higher institution. Hailing from a single-parent household with only her mother and her, they could be described as an “average living family.”
Rasheedat understood that her success depended on her efforts and the support of her mother, but despite her diligent efforts, she failed to secure admission in her first attempt. This failure initially weighed her down, but as a determined individual, she refused to be defeated by it. Hermother, a pillar of strength, never allowed the situation to discourage her either.
During that same year, Rasheedat’s mother heard about New Wave Educational Consults, an institution specializing in helping students gain admission to universities through programs such as IJMB and diploma courses. This institution had branches in Osun Osogbo State and Ibadan, with Osogbo being the closest to her location. Together with her mother, she embarked on a three-hour journey to Osogbo one Monday morning, arriving at noon.
Upon reaching the school, they were warmly received by Mrs. Ekundayo, who directed them to the office of the Director. Along the way, she observed numerous classrooms filled with students and tutors engaged in teaching and learning. Her mother whispered to her, “This is what I’m talking about,” addressing her as Olamide, to which she responded with a smile.
“We welcome you to New Wave Educational Consults,” the Director said as they took their seats. While the Director explained the various programs offered, Rasheedat couldn’t listen but admired the numerous awards displayed in the office. Her attention returned to the conversation as Director Bamigbose mentioned that their programs entailed nine months of training. She learned that the students she had seen earlier had already completed three months of the program. At that moment, she became fully attentive to the discussion between the Director and her mother. When Director Bamigbose asked if Rasheedat could complete the remaining six months, she responded with a resounding “yes.”
Rasheedat’s mother, having unwavering belief in her, agreed to her decision. She not only paid for her IJMB program but also enrolled her in the diploma program, just in case. While Rasheedat was elated, she couldn’t help but feel empathy for her mother, who was shouldering these expenses alone.
With the payments settled, Rasheedat promptly joined the class. A week later, She realized that she could acquire additional skills after class. Without hesitation, she enrolled in Rukbass Fashion Home, committing to a six-month training program.
Today, Rasheedat is now a 200-level university student, holding both a diploma certificate and the title of CEO with five apprentices under her guidance.