By Meikudi Ashiat
It was a bright and colorful day for Ibrahim Jimoh Saliu, 47, who toured 727 kilometers from his state of origin down to Sokoto State to celebrate the honorary attainment of his PhD. His joy knew no bounds when he saw his name on the list of PhD Graduates and he reminisced about the thorns and challenges he encountered during his days in school.
The joy of attaining his philosophy of doctorate(PhD) at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto lingered like a figment in his mind. Dr Saliu, an indigene of Bauchi State began his journey in 2019, carrying with him a resolved mind of achievement devoid of his aging years.
Leaving his family alone in the quest for his doctorate pursuance had been the least he would opted for. His theme of research was based on the distinction between Muslims and Christians, which he conducted in Delta state.
“My topic of research was resolved by interviewing Muslims and Christians both literate and nonliterate. I conducted my research in a selected part of Delta and Kebbi state. Although it was not easy Alhamdulillah, I overcame the challenges”, he said.
PhD is a doctoral research degree and the highest level of academic qualification. It is a research or professional doctoral degree that focuses on the field of education.
It prepares the holder for academic, research, administrative, clinical, or professional positions in educational, civil, private organizations, or public institutions. Considerable differences exist in structure, content, and aims between regions.
Success Trails behind Hardship
Fate struck a ray of success for Dr Suleiman Rabiu, 46, an indigene of Zamfara State, who converged with family and friends to rejoice with him on his convocation day. He completed his philosophy of doctorate in Environmental Biochemistry at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto. The adversity of his service was followed by instant reward as he was offered a job.
However, In every success, there is an impediment. Dr Suleiman Rabiu recounted the thorns of challenges he sailed through while serving his doctorate studentship, the trials of the achievement come with constraints of financial hurdles.
“One of the obstacles that ensued during my time as PhD student was financial constraint. At times, getting support or help in paying for particular fees proves difficult.
“It hadn’t been easy but it was not something that cannot be accomplished. I went through the most rigorous training of this doctorate, starting with the course works, the thesis, and the proposal after which we will embark on the research”.
Which he tagged as the most arduous line of research. However, fate counted him lucky, he was offered a job immediately after his PhD.
“After the completion of my program in 2021, I was called for an interview after which I was successfully offered a job and so fortunately, I am now a senior lecturer in this University in the department of Biochemistry,” he rejoiced with excitement on his face.
Gown of Excellence
Putting on the rare gown of academic excellence and accolades was the biggest happiness she could not forget. Nkiruka Christiana Asu, 39 hails from Abia state, a 1199 kilometer to Sokoto State to attain her doctorate in Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto. Her encounters were ameliorated by God.
“I give all glory to God who sees me through my trial time in school. Many of us started our journey but only a few graduated. We thank Almighty God for his ceaseless mercy,” she said.