A University of Benin (UNIBEN) graduate has sparked conversations online after sharing his remarkable academic achievement and the accompanying reward of ₦5,000 for being the Best Graduating Student in Mechanical Engineering, with an impressive CGPA of 4.80/5.0.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he proudly posted a picture of himself holding his certificate, along with a heartfelt message detailing his journey.
In his post, he wrote: “Yesterday, I received the sum of ₦5,000 as the award for Best Graduating Student in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Benin for the 2021/2022 Academic Session, having graduated with a CGPA of 4.80/5.0.”
“This award holds great significance for me, considering my journey from a very disadvantaged background to achieving such an outstanding feat. I am also honored to have served as a student leader in several positions, notably as President of my department and faculty (NUESA).”
He further shared, “Additionally, having the opportunity to teach others while in school and play football for my class and department were accomplishments I truly cherish. Looking forward to better days ahead 🙏.”
The post quickly gained attention, with users on X flooding his comment section with a mix of congratulations and critiques of the modest monetary reward for such an outstanding academic feat.
One user, @winnpxl, sarcastically commented, “The money they gave in the 1990, they’re still giving it in 2024. Congratulations, better things ahead for you.”
Another, @Wynwonder, wrote, “Congratulations. Trust you’ll invest it wisely.”
The amount, which many deemed insufficient, prompted humorous and critical responses. @OkoliDG remarked, “For the 5 years. That’s 1k for each year. Shout out to Uniben.”
Others questioned the university’s failure to update prize money over the years. @ogbonnia noted, “Them they always review school fees but e never cross their mind to review prize winners award.”
Some users, however, offered advice and encouragement for the graduate to pursue further opportunities abroad. @penforme wrote, “God forbid bad thing. But congratulations brother. Please actively begin to seek out masters scholarships asap. You will get placements in US or top European schools with stipends if you persist. In some cases you can even jump to PHD str8.”
Similarly, @ms_idera urged, “Congratulations 🎊 to you! Greater heights! But please look into PhD programs or MSc in Europe. That N5,000 is nonsense, there’s more out there for you; you just have to persist! Well done!”
The recipient of the award also received warm congratulations from those familiar with the realities of the university system. @Winter_Six commented, “Lmao congratulations chairman. People dey ask why dem give you 5k. We wey go the school know say you been no even expect anything.”
Despite the criticisms of the monetary value of the award, the young man’s determination and resilience shone through. Many praised his ability to thrive academically while balancing leadership roles and extracurricular activities.
The conversation also reignited debates about the state of higher education funding and reward systems in Nigeria. Observers questioned whether institutions were doing enough to recognize and incentivize academic excellence, especially in fields as demanding as engineering.
The graduate’s story underscores the persistence required to excel in Nigeria’s educational system, often despite limited resources.
It also highlights the growing role of social media in amplifying such narratives, sparking public discourse on systemic issues.
While the ₦5,000 prize may seem inadequate to many, the graduate’s optimism and gratitude for the recognition reflect his determination to turn the moment into an opportunity.
His call for "better days ahead" has inspired many, with supporters urging him to leverage his impressive academic record for international opportunities.
In an era where social media provides a platform for voices often unheard, this UNIBEN graduate has not only shared his triumph but also invited a broader conversation about what it truly means to value excellence.
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