By Isiaq Ibrahim
In the realm of academic excellence, there exists a narrative that transcends the ordinary, a story of Garba Ahmad, a distinguished graduate of Sociology from Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, whose remarkable journey to a 4.59 Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) over four years stands as a testament to the power of ambition and hard work.
Hailing from the Ilorin-west local government of Kwara State, Ahmad’s pursuit of academic greatness was ignited by a deep-seated desire to make his parents proud and honor their investment in his education.
Despite facing initial discouragement and skepticism from peers who deemed a first-class honor unattainable, Ahmad remained steadfast in his resolve.
“I refused to be limited by others’ doubts. Though challenging, I believed achieving a first class is possible, and now, I stand here, grateful for the journey,” Ahmad reflects with gratitude.
The landscape of academic achievements in UDUS’s Sociology department saw a significant shift during Ahmad’s tenure.
He recalls, ” It’s not easy to bag first class in Sociology. If I can recall, I think the last first class we had was in 2016 bagged by a lady. Since then, no one had achieved a first-class until my time.”
Ahmad’s Source of Motivation
Ahmad credits much of his motivation and inspiration to Zaka Sulyman, a senior student whose words of encouragement during Ahmad’s first year served as a guiding light.
He recounts, “Zaka advised me to disregard negativity, stay focused, and pursue the seemingly impossible. His mentorship fueled my determination, leading to CGPAs of 4.42 and 4.34 in my first two years.”
In Ahmad’s 200-Level, he felt demotivated when he realized that he was unable to secure a CGPA of 4.50 in his first two years in the varsity.
His words: “My friend who is also a roommate and coursemate, Ibrahim Abdullahi was aware of my CGPA and told me that I could surely clinch first-class – consequently I was fully motivated. It is imperative to have people with positive thoughts around
Speaking with The News Digest Press, Ahmad emphasized that he found solace in supportive peers like Ibrahim Abdullahi, whose unwavering belief in Ahmad’s potential reignited his drive.
“Positive influences are invaluable. Surrounding yourself with individuals who believe in your capabilities can transform your outlook.” Abdullahi’s words to Ahmad.
The Journey of Achieving his Feat
The turning point in Ahmad’s academic journey came in his third year when he achieved a remarkable CGPA of 4.80, solidifying his belief in attaining a first-class honor. Encouraged by this milestone, he persisted with renewed vigor, culminating in a well-deserved CGPA of 4.59 upon graduation.
Reflecting on his critical moments, Ahmad acknowledges the role of his department’s support, particularly through awards and recognition.
When Ahmad stepped into his final year, his department (Sociology) organized an orientation program for the newly admitted students. The orientation program featured a prize award for outstanding first-class students, among others.
Ahmad had the opportunity to be awarded among all the students as the outstanding first-class student of the department.
“I did not notice myself as a first-class student of the department, not until I was called out by the Head of Department (HOD) for recognition and award given. This led to my fame, honor, and prestige because almost 80% of Sociology students and lecturers’ eyes were on me then.”
“Being honored as the outstanding first-class student of the Sociology department fueled my determination. Encouragement from father and mentors like Dr. Mudassir Ahmad Gado, Mallam Yusuf Abdulazeez, and Professor Muhammad Tasiu Dansabo kept me focused,” he acknowledges with gratitude.
Extending words of wisdom to Students, Ahmad advised Students to embrace every single and dedicate time to reading.
“Strive hard towards reading and do not restrict yourself to only materials given by the lecturers: download PDF from the internet, engage in further reading in the library, watch some video content on YouTube, and read with peers,” he said.