During the remarkable 13th Convocation Ceremony of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) held on Saturday, April 13, 2024, in Jabi, Abuja, Mrs. Inegbedion Aruoriwo, a graduate of B.Sc. Mass Communication from the Faculty of Social Sciences, distinguished herself by becoming the Best Graduating Student. With an impressive cumulative Grade Point Average of 4.78, she excelled among 22,175 graduates, earning the prestigious accolade for her exceptional academic performance.
In her valedictory speech, Mrs. Aruoriwo shared insights and words of encouragement, urging her peers and future NOUN students to embrace diligence, prioritise self-discipline, and stay focused on their goals to achieve success. She highlighted her own journey, noting that if she could overcome numerous challenges to achieve this feat, so can others.
Mrs. Aruoriwo began her studies at NOUN in 2020, driven by a desire for personal advancement. Balancing the roles of a student with being a wife and mother was challenging. She described studying by the faint glow of her phone during power outages and meticulously planning her study schedule, overcoming financial constraints and commuting challenges for her examinations through sheer perseverance.
Her story is not just about personal triumph but also a testament to the supportive environment at NOUN. She credited the university’s flexible and efficient educational model, which allows students to progress at their own pace, making higher education accessible and adaptable to personal circumstances. Mrs. Aruoriwo’s experience underlines that at NOUN, education transcends traditional boundaries, empowering students to shape their educational journeys according to their life situations.
Furthermore, Mrs. Aruoriwo expressed her gratitude towards the university management for recognising and supporting her efforts and to her professors for their invaluable guidance. She also thanked her family for their constant encouragement and love, which were crucial in her journey towards academic excellence.
In closing, she encouraged everyone present at the ceremony to continue supporting and uplifting the university, ensuring its continued prosperity and role as a beacon of hope and opportunity for aspiring students.
For prospective students contemplating higher education, Mrs. Aruoriwo’s story is a compelling invitation to consider NOUN, where educational aspirations are nurtured into achievements through dedication and support.
