Abdulsalam Islamiyah Wunmi, a strong Nigerian woman, has earned a second-class honours degree in civil engineering from the esteemed University of Ibadan despite years of rejection and doubt.
Islamiyah reflected on her lengthy and convoluted academic path in a heartfelt Facebook post, calling it “a journey marked by pressure, setbacks, and unwavering resolve.” She wrote that her ultimate CGPA of 3.38 is a monument to her fortitude, grace, and perseverance, not simply a figure.
Her ambition to become a doctor was the first step towards her goals. She was disappointed to be denied admission twice after putting her all into pursuing an MBBS degree and taking the JAMB exam.
Islamiyah was under pressure to think of a different course because she was emotionally spent and uncertain about the future. She finally took a chance and registered in a subject she never would have thought to take, a National Diploma in Civil Engineering, at The Polytechnic, Ibadan.
Despite her initial hesitancy, Islamiyah immersed herself into the program, overcoming difficult scholastic obstacles and periods of intense uncertainty. She graduated with a high CGPA as a result of her persistence. Her final year project, which involved designing a living room sofa, tested her ingenuity and increased her interest in engineering.
In an attempt to start over, she applied for Direct Entry to the Federal University of Technology, but was turned down once more. She continued to seek a Higher National Diploma (HND) despite the setback. Around this time, engineering started to signify something new to her—not just as a subject to study, but also as a way to make a difference in the real world.
She learnt about the potential of sustainable engineering solutions through her HND project, which investigated the use of shredded plastic bottles to fortify clay and sandy soil. She was recognised as her class’s Best Graduating Female Student after completing the program with honours.
Islamiyah reapplied, this time to the University of Ibadan, still driven by the goal to earn a university degree. Her much anticipated admittance letter arrived while she was a member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). She attempted to arrange a move to accommodate both obligations, but it was unsuccessful. Fortunately, she was able to finish her service before returning to UI thanks to a university strike.
It was like entering a dream again when she walked into UI, but this time she brought with her years of experience, clarity, and a fresh sense of purpose. She worked on a project in her senior year that combined engineering and environmental awareness: building bubble decks out of plastic garbage.
The tale of Islamiyah serves as a potent reminder that “delay is not denial” and that taking a different route does not equate to failure. For her, engineering is a calling to solve issues, create sustainable structures, and transform lives, not just a job.
She was extremely appreciative of God and her family, particularly her parents, who supported her when she was hardly able to stand by herself. She wrote, “When I hardly believed in myself, they believed in me.” “They are my story’s real heroes.”
Islamiyah Wunmi is more than simply a civil engineer today; she is a representation of perseverance, dignity, and the strength to persevere when everything appear to be against you.
CREDIT: ALLSCHOOL, Allschoolabs
Related News:
