FUNAAB’s Best Graduating Student Credits Parents’ Prayers and Sacrifice for Academic Success

Miss Joy Osianor, the Best Graduating Student and Valedictorian of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) Class of 2025, has attributed her exceptional academic achievement to the unwavering prayers, fasting, and sacrifices of her parents.

Delivering her Valedictory Address at FUNAAB’s 33rd Convocation Ceremony, Miss Osianor described her success as the result of sustained spiritual and emotional support from her family, highlighting that her parents consistently prayed and fasted on her behalf, particularly during examination periods.

“The guidance of my supervisors and the encouragement of my coursemates were crucial,” she said, “but it was the steadfastness of my parents—their prayers and fasting during exams—that truly sustained me.”

Reflecting on her journey alongside the Class of 2025, Miss Osianor recalled the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, including delayed matriculation and the shift to virtual learning. She noted that these obstacles, rather than weakening the cohort, fostered resilience, adaptability, and a strong sense of community among graduates.

Addressing her peers, she urged fellow graduates to pursue ambitious goals and lead lives that inspire others. “If your dreams don’t scare you, they aren’t big enough,” she declared, encouraging courage, purpose, and kindness as guiding principles.

Concluding her address, Miss Osianor performed three symbolic bows: in memory of departed classmates, in honour of FUNAAB, and in deep appreciation of her parents’ and guardians’ sacrifices—a tribute that drew widespread applause and celebrated the collective effort behind her academic excellence.