From Selling Fish to First-Class: EKSU Best-Graduating Student Receives 1.25 Million Naira as Award
From Selling Fish to First-Class: EKSU Best-Graduating Student Receives 1.25 Million Naira
okpe chinenye 
Olabode Williams Jolomi, a resilient 26-year-old Nigerian man, has etched his name into the annals of academic excellence by achieving a remarkable first-class degree with a stellar 4.94 GPA from Ekiti State University, Nigeria. His journey to this achievement is a testament to determination, hard work, and a deep commitment to his education.
Olabode's path to academic success was not without its challenges. With a desire to further his education, he embarked on a unique journey to fund his university studies. Beginning in his second year, Olabode started selling fish, a business he undertook to support his parents and contribute to his academic expenses. Despite facing financial constraints, he persevered.
Reflecting on his journey, Olabode shared, "I started selling fish from 200 level to 400 level because of financial challenges and to help my parents support my academics."
Beyond his academic endeavors, Olabode demonstrated a commitment to his peers by organizing tutorials for his coursemates and other students within his department. While he faced some undisclosed challenges and had to suspend the tutorials, his dedication to helping others shone through.
Throughout his time as a student, Olabode was actively engaged in extracurricular activities, showcasing his leadership qualities and a passion for politics. He participated in students' politics on campus, running for the position of president in the Nigerian Association of Agricultural Students (NASS), albeit without success. Undeterred, he set his sights on the role of President at the International Forestry Students' Association (IFSA) and emerged victorious. Olabode proudly became the first executive president of the association to receive an award for his department.
One of the notable achievements during his tenure was securing sponsorship for an event to promote awareness of forestry in Africa. The event, supported by IFSA and the International Union of Forest Research Organizations (IUFRO), received praise and garnered a prize of 230,000 naira for the association.
Olabode's remarkable journey continued as he received recognition and support from the university's alumni. He was awarded 250,000 naira for being the best-graduating student by one alumnus and received an additional one million naira from another alumnus in acknowledgment of his efforts and contributions to the university community.
Olabode's aspirations extend beyond his first-class degree. He envisions furthering his education with a master's degree abroad. He offers words of encouragement to young learners, advising them to remain focused, determined, and goal-oriented.
He underscores the importance of not allowing one's background or circumstances to hinder their pursuit of knowledge and success. Olabode's journey serves as an inspiration to all those striving for excellence against the odds.
