After 6-Year Wait, Math Prodigy Isaac Nyianshima Finally Convocated as JOSTUM's Top Graduate
After a 6-year wait, Isaac Nyianshima finally receives his Mathematics degree from JOSTUM with a record 4.87 CGPA. Despite missing his convocation in the US, he's honored as the university's best graduate. A story of academic excellence and perseverance.
Okoro David Emeka 
Isaac Nyianshima, whose stellar 4.87 CGPA in Mathematics at Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University (JOSTUM) made him the institution's best graduate for the 2017/2018 session, has finally received his degree - nearly six years after completing his final exams in 2019.
The long-awaited recognition came during JOSTUM's combined convocation ceremonies (26th-31st) held recently for graduates from 2017/2018 to 2023/2024 academic sessions. However, Nyianshima, now residing in the United States, was unable to attend what he describes as "the coronation moment" of his academic journey.
A Painful Absence
"For someone who cherishes academic excellence like I do, convocation is what coronation is to a king," Nyianshima lamented. "It's heartbreaking that administrative delays denied me this privilege after all my hard work."
The Mathematics graduate criticized the university's six-year convocation gap, advocating for annual ceremonies to properly honor graduating students.
Record-Breaking Achievements
Despite his physical absence, Nyianshima's exceptional performance was celebrated with multiple honors:
• Departmental Best (Mathematics/Statistics/Computer Science) across all combined sets
• College of Sciences Best Graduate
• University-wide Best Graduating Student (2017/2018 session)
• Perfect 4.87 CGPA - one of the highest in university history
Gratitude Amid Disappointment
The distinguished graduate expressed profound appreciation for his lecturers and department at the former University of Agriculture Makurdi (now JOSTUM), calling his undergraduate experience "amazing."
"All I wanted was to graduate with first-class honors," Nyianshima reflected. "By God's grace, I surpassed even my own expectations."
A Lesson in Perseverance
Nyianshima's story highlights both the rewards of academic dedication and the institutional challenges facing Nigeria's university system. As he moves forward with his career in the U.S., his 4.87 CGPA remains a benchmark for future JOSTUM students.
The university has yet to comment on the convocation delays, but Nyianshima's achievements continue to inspire current students pursuing excellence against all odds.
