In an extraordinary academic journey marked by brilliance and resilience, Vahyalajah Eunice has etched her name in the annals of excellence at Nile University of Nigeria. Graduating with a First-Class Honors degree in Petroleum and Gas Engineering, she achieved an exceptional Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.99/5.0. Eunice’s achievements not only earned her the distinction of being the university’s Best Female Graduating Student but also saw her recognized as the Overall Best Graduating Student (1st Runner-Up).
Academic Triumph and Research Excellence
Eunice’s academic pursuits were driven by an unwavering commitment to excellence. Her final-year research, Hydrocarbon Backallocation Using Machine Learning, exemplified her innovative approach to problem-solving in the oil and gas industry. By leveraging advanced algorithms, she developed optimized production forecasting models for marginal fields, demonstrating a synergy between technical acumen and industry relevance.
Her groundbreaking research underscores her passion for data-driven solutions and positions her as a thought leader in the evolving energy landscape.
Leadership and Advocacy
Beyond the classroom, Eunice emerged as a beacon of leadership and mentorship. As President of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Nile University Chapter, she spearheaded initiatives that elevated the chapter’s status, including securing a top-three finish in the Energy Challenge at STSE 2024. Her tenure was marked by increased membership, impactful career talks, and programs that inspired over 500 students to explore opportunities in the energy industry.
Eunice also served as an Energy4me Ambassador with SPE International, organizing STEM outreach programs to inspire young learners and advocate for careers in the energy sector. Her ability to bridge academia and community development reflects her dedication to fostering a more inclusive and innovative future.
Global Exposure and Professional Experience
Eunice’s journey extended beyond the boundaries of her university. She represented Nigeria as the only female delegate at the 2023 International Petroleum Technology Conference (IPTC) in Bangkok, Thailand. This global recognition highlighted her leadership and academic prowess among the top 50 students worldwide.
Her internships at Cyphercrescent Ltd., NUPRC, and Arab Oil and Gas provided hands-on experience in seismic acquisition, drilling proposals, reservoir engineering, and machine learning applications in the oil and gas industry. These roles enriched her expertise, allowing her to contribute meaningfully to field development and safety standards.
Recognition and Awards
Eunice’s achievements have been celebrated through numerous accolades, including:
- Girl in STEM Leadership Award (2024): For promoting women in STEM and her exceptional academic and leadership contributions.
- APWEN Outstanding Academic Performance Award: Recognizing her dedication to inspiring the next generation of women in STEM.
- Duke of Edinburgh’s Silver Standard Award: For her commitment to community service and personal development.
Inspiration and Legacy
Eunice’s story is one of resilience and determination. Reflecting on her journey, she acknowledged moments of exhaustion and self-doubt but credited her success to prayer, perseverance, and the support network she built over time. She emphasized the transformative power of mentorship, networking, and stepping beyond one’s comfort zone.
Her words to aspiring students resonate deeply:
“Resilience, determination, and the right support system will carry you far. Keep pushing forward—you are capable of more than you realize.”
Looking Ahead
Eunice’s journey at Nile University has laid a strong foundation for her ambition to make a global impact. With a unique blend of academic excellence, leadership, and professional experience, she is poised to contribute to advancements in the energy sector and beyond.
As we celebrate Vahyalajah Eunice, we honor her as a symbol of hope and inspiration for young Nigerians and women across Africa. Her achievements remind us that with determination and faith, the extraordinary is possible.
In an inspiring display of academic brilliance, Olayinka Esther Olaniyi has emerged as the top graduate in Biochemistry at the University of Lagos, Nigeria, with an extraordinary First-Class Honours degree and a CGPA of 4.80/5.0. Her achievement stands as a testament to her resilience, determination, and unyielding pursuit of excellence.
Olayinka’s academic journey began at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), where she earned a National Diploma in Science Laboratory Technology with an impressive 3.48/4.0 CGPA. While this accomplishment was commendable, it ignited a deeper ambition in her to achieve even greater heights.
“I had high expectations for myself at the University of Lagos,” Olayinka reflected, “and I was determined to graduate with a strong First-Class degree.”
Her undergraduate journey, however, was not without challenges. The global COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional learning patterns, while prolonged academic union strikes tested her patience and resolve. Despite these obstacles, Olayinka demonstrated unwavering determination, achieving a perfect 5.0 GPA in three out of her eight semesters. Click here to continue reading about Olayinka Esther.
