Nigerian Woman Graduates with First-Class in Microbiology, Earns Scholarships to Study in the US and UK

Mercy Ojetunde is a young African lady who has achieved remarkable feats in the field of microbiology. She is a first-class graduate of Microbiology from Osun State University in Nigeria, a 2020 iSI Scholar, a 2021 Commonwealth shared scholar and a doctoral student studying biomedical science at West Virginia University, USA. She is also a research enthusiast with an interest in Vaccinology, Immunology, and Microbial Pathogenesis. She has authored and co-authored nine (9) research publications in peer-reviewed journals, some of which focus on infectious diseases such as COVID-19 and Tuberculosis.

Mercy's journey to success is marked by passion, perseverance, and excellence. Despite growing up in a low-income family in Nigeria and facing numerous challenges, she remained determined to pursue her dreams. Her parents played a significant role in instilling values of hard work, discipline, and faith in her.

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"I always had a dream of becoming a scientist since I was a kid. I was fascinated by how microorganisms cause diseases and how we can prevent or treat them. I also wanted to contribute to the advancement of science and humanity. My parents supported me all the way, even though they could not afford to pay for my education. They taught me to believe in myself and to never give up on my dreams," Mercy said.

After graduating with a first-class honours degree in Microbiology from Osun State University in 2018, where she was the best graduating student in her department and faculty, Mercy received several awards and scholarships for her academic excellence. She was also active in extracurricular activities, including serving as the librarian of the National Association of Microbiology Students (NAMS) and volunteering for the Fruitful Bough Foundation, a non-governmental organization that empowers women and children.

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Following her undergraduate success, Mercy pursued further educational opportunities to advance her research career. She was selected as one of the iSI Scholars in 2020, a program that offers mentorship, training, and funding for young African scholars aspiring to pursue graduate studies abroad. Through this program, she secured admission and scholarships to study MSc Biotechnology at the University of the West of Scotland in the UK, with additional support from the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission.

"I was overwhelmed with joy when I received the news that I was awarded two scholarships to study in the UK. It was a dream come true for me. I had always wanted to study abroad and learn from the best institutions and experts in my field. I am grateful to iSI Initiative and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission for this opportunity," Mercy expressed.

Currently, Mercy is enrolled in the MSc Biotechnology program at the University of the West of Scotland's Lanarkshire Campus. Her aspirations include gaining more knowledge and skills in biotechnology and its applications in health, agriculture, and industry. She is also keen on exploring entrepreneurship and innovation, with plans to start her own biotech company in the future.

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Mercy's accomplishments are particularly noteworthy given the challenges faced by African researchers. Africa's research output accounts for only 2.4% of the global total, according to UNESCO. Furthermore, women remain underrepresented in STEM fields, especially in Africa. UNESCO reports that only 30% of researchers worldwide are women, with just 19% in sub-Saharan Africa.

Mercy serves as an inspiration and role model for young African girls aspiring to pursue STEM careers. She emphasizes the importance of education as a key to empowerment and development, encouraging others to chase their dreams despite the challenges they may encounter.

"My advice to other young Africans is to never stop learning and never stop dreaming. Education is not only about obtaining a degree or certificate but also about acquiring knowledge and skills that can help you solve problems and create value. Dream big and work hard towards achieving your goals. Do not let your background or circumstances limit you. You have what it takes to succeed," Mercy declared.