By Abdulrasaq Kamaldeen
“I read with determination which made me get a 4.75 CGPA during my 100 level. Furthered my study in UG2, l was able to pull out 4.71 and l got 4.51 at UG3,” said Kabiru, in his response to the interview.
Kabiru Bello, a recent graduate from the Accounting Department at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, had shared the highs and lows of his academic journey—shedding light on his initial aspirations and unexpected challenges.
Hailing from Gwadabawa local government in Sokoto state, Bello’s academic trajectory started with an impressive 4.75 CGPA in his 100 level, setting the stage for his dream of graduating with first-class honors.
However, the road to success was not without its twists and turns.
Despite maintaining a strong academic record throughout his undergraduate years, Bello’s final CGPA stood at 4.48, just shy of his initial goal.
His words: “ I have faith and accept it as my destiny since it has already been said in the glorious Qur’an; no one can take away what is meant for you, no matter what. All I can say is Alhamdulillah. Just that I am destined to graduate with a 4.48, though it doesn’t determine what I will become in the future.
“ Though I felt bad about it at the same time I always give thanks to Allah because some are still struggling to have 2:2 and third class, this doesn’t mean I am better than them, they can be even more blessed than me in the future.
“Making a first class is not an easy task and achieving it is a great achievement in academics.
With or without being a first-class student doesn’t make a difference in the future, only Allah knows the best for me and I am sure this would be the best for me, Insha Allah.”
Extracurricular Activity Not a Barrier to Academic Success
While speaking with The News Digest Press, Bello, as the former president of his faculty, reiterated that his involvement in politics did not hinder his chances of attaining a first-class degree.
Speaking further, he attributed his final CGPA to destiny and highlighted that unforeseen circumstances played a role in altering his initial aspirations.
“School politics has nothing to do with my Academic performance though it may lead to slowing down academic performance. I don’t consider it to be the major factor that led me not to graduate with first class.
“For me to be among the Top 4 best students, is a blessing for me, and Alhamdulillah.”
“ Try and Maintain your Feet”— Bello Advice to Undergraduates Students
While offering advice to undergraduate students, Bello emphasized the importance of dedication, determination, and hard work in achieving academic success.
“Those people who are in first class should try and keep more effort with patience to make sure they achieve such a higher degree, at the same time they should know that being a first-class student requires dedication, determination, and hard work with prayers.”
“ Being a first-class student doesn’t mean that you are more knowledgeable than others but it is a privilege.”
He encourages first-class students to strive for excellence while recognizing that it is a privilege rather than a measure of superior knowledge.
Additionally, he urges students to pursue practical applications of their education and to explore entrepreneurial opportunities rather than solely relying on traditional employment avenues.