Oyinloye Emmanuel Oluwatobi, a Nigerian barber and recent graduate of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), has proven that hard work and determination can overcome even the most daunting challenges. Emmanuel graduated with First-Class Honors in Quantity Surveying, earning accolades as one of the top students in his department.
Emmanuel’s journey to academic excellence is nothing short of inspiring. While pursuing his degree, he simultaneously worked as a professional barber, skillfully managing the demands of his studies and his job. Reflecting on his experience, he celebrated his achievement on social media, writing: “Despite the hustle since day one. Thank you FUTA. Y’all welcome your first, First Class Barber.”
Accompanying his post were photos of his name listed among the department’s first-class graduates, which garnered widespread admiration and congratulatory messages.
“This is massive. Congratulations, First-Class Barber wey sabi,” commented one supporter on social media.
“Our Superhero with Clipper, Congrats chief,” another user quipped, while a third humorously added, “Abeg still barb my hair one more year before you go UK.”
Emmanuel’s story has resonated with many, amassing thousands of views and interactions on social media. His ability to balance his professional life with the rigors of academic excellence has become a symbol of resilience and determination.
As a barber, Emmanuel not only honed his craft in grooming and styling but also exemplified the value of hard work and perseverance. His self-coined title, “First-Class Barber,” perfectly encapsulates his journey of juggling both worlds and emerging victorious.
Expressing his gratitude, Emmanuel said: “I’m grateful to everyone. Thank you for making this feat of achievement a memorable one. My only prayer is that we’ll all be there to celebrate each other and see everyone win.”
Emmanuel’s story serves as an inspiration to countless others, showing that no dream is unattainable with dedication, resilience, and the support of a community. As he steps into the next chapter of his journey, he carries with him the lessons of perseverance and the pride of being a trailblazer in both academics and his craft.
At just 19, Ofili Onyinye has distinguished herself as a rising star in the tech world, graduating with a stellar first-class degree in Software Engineering from Admiralty University of Nigeria, Delta State. With a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 4.64, she not only topped her class but also earned the titles of Best Graduating Student in Software Engineering and Overall Best Graduating Student in the Department of Computing Sciences.
Ofili’s academic journey began at 15 when she enrolled in the Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB) program at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Reflecting on that pivotal year, she describes it as a critical stepping stone that laid the foundation for her future successes.
Her transition from health sciences to Software Engineering marked a bold and challenging leap. Joining the university directly in her second year (200 level), Ofili initially ended with a 2:1 CGPA—a respectable achievement but one that left her with little time to achieve her ultimate goal of graduating with a first-class degree. Read more about Ofili Onyinye here.
