The First Class Muslim Foundation has called on the Nigerian Federal Government to offer better rewards to first-class graduates from Nigerian institutions than it gives to sportsmen and women.
Dr. Sulaimon Ogunmuyiwa, Chairman of the foundation’s incorporated trustees, made this statement at the seventh edition of the “M-First Series,” a mentorship training program held in Lagos State.
While commending the government’s student loan scheme, he appealed for more appreciation and rewards for first-class graduates compared to athletes.
He said: “I thank the government for introducing the students loan scheme. I want them to do more by giving the same over ₦100 million some sportsmen got to each student that is able to get first class. If we can do this, we will realize that almost all Nigerian students will be willing to make a first class, and this will really boost academics in Nigeria.”
Ogunmuyiwa continued, “We are training and it is a necessity, we are looking forward to a time that we are able to reward first class students in Nigeria adequately. If we do this, it will encourage a lot of youths to see education and scholarship as a serious thing. I also think the government can change the tide by focusing more on education and encourage scholarship. This is the reason why other countries are doing well in education than us.”
The educationist also urged all levels of government to increase investment in education.
He added, “Government must seek ways to improve funding in education and this is one of the surest means to develop. When you educate people, you have empowered them. What Nigeria students need is to be empowered with adequate quality education, so that we can stop going outside the country to learn.”
During the three-day annual workshop for select 51 First-Class Muslim graduates across Nigerian universities, experts in various fields took turns to train the students in critical thinking, networking, harnessing potential, and exploring international study opportunities.
Among those who mentored the graduates were the rectors of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) and Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH), Engr Ibraheem Abdul and Dr Nurudeen Olaleye respectively.
Others are Chief Financial Officer of MTN Nigeria, Mr Modupe Kadri; BUA Refinery Coordinator, Engr Nasir Giwa; Chief Executive Officer at Omnicom Solutions Limited, Engr Faheed Olajide; Engr. Idris Akinremi; and Mr. Sanusi Ahmed of Globacom.
Speakers at the workshop also included Mr Mutiu Adelu, Dr. Ganiyat Adenle; Dr Saliu Balogun, Mr Sodiq Ogundipe, Dr. Sikirat Akinremi and Alhaji Obileye.
The rectors of YABATECH and LASPOTECH urged the graduates not to relent in achieving excellence after bagging first class.
The rector of YABATECH said, “Earning a first-class degree is a remarkable achievement, a milestone that reflects your dedication, discipline, and intellectual brilliance. However, do not imagine that the qualification you have acquired is the height of your career. Instead, consider it the beginning. It is the hallmark of an educated mind to recognize that there is no such thing as too much learning. Open your mind to the possibilities in your world and devote yourself to lifelong learning and self-development. Always remember that you are worthy of your best dreams.”
While urging the first class graduates to be prepared and ready for opportunities, the LASPOTECH rector added, “Nothing stops you from getting scholarships in the best universities in the whole world, just activate your network. Don’t give up until you achieve your goal. Never settle for less. You have the template to reach the peak.”
The Chief Financial Officer of MTN Nigeria told the first class graduates that their true worth will be measured by how they use their knowledge to solve real problems.
“You have achieved something incredible – a first class degree. But bluntly, that degree is not your destination. Many fall into the trap of thinking that academic brilliance is enough, you true worth is going to be measured by how you use your knowledge to solve real life problems.”
During a mentorship chat, Olajide Faheed advised the graduates to sharpen their critical thinking skills.
“How far you go in life is largely dependent on how deep you can think critically and navigate challenges,” he said.
Mutiu Adelu advised the graduates to have a dependable mentor, saying, “Life after graduation is full of opportunities and uncertainties. You cannot tread the path alone, a mentor is always required.”
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