By Adebayo Leshi
Benjamin Olowu has etched his name in the history books of the Lagos State University after he emerged as the best graduating student for the 2020/2021 academic session. From the Mechanical Engineering department, the 21-year-old graduated with a 4.97 CGPA — the highest in the institution’s history — beating the record set by Oladimeji Shotunde who finished with a 4.95 CGPA.
In this interview, with BlackBox Nigeria (BBN), Olowu gives an account of his successes, struggles, hopes and plans for the future.
What was your reaction when you heard the news of your feat? How did your parents take it?
I had a feeling that I would be setting a new record as well as graduating as the overall best student. However, hearing and reading about it on various media outlets was another kind of joy on its own. I told myself, “Benjamin, you have finally made it to the headlines”. My parents sang songs of joy, congratulated me and then prayed for me.
How did you manage to maintain such a high CGPA till your last days on campus?
First of all, I would say it is not by my strength or power but by God’s grace. There were so many contributing factors to achieving this. All I can say is I stayed consistent in repeating what has been working for me right from the beginning. I wouldn’t say I had a plan for any of this, I just always put in my best in doing what I had to do at the right time.
Asides your studies, do you have other interests or hobbies?
Sure, I have other things that interest me. Firstly, I regard myself as a gamer because I enjoy playing video games a lot. I also play football, pool ball, Basketball. In fact, while I was in FGCL I was part of the volleyball team like I just enjoy sports in general. I also watch movies and I can play the saxophone. I am of the opinion that the fact that you are in school shouldn’t deprived you of having leisure time for other things. It all just boils down to time management.
What challenges did you face in the course of your studies?
One of my major challenges was the transitioning from Ojo campus to Epe campus. It wasn’t easy at all. It took a while for my body to really adjust to the environment and I must say it wasn’t a smooth experience. The first time I ever got admitted into an hospital was at Epe campus. It was also at this campus I took my first drip. There was even a time I was told not to drink the water on campus because it wasn’t agreeing with my body system. So, my dad being the Director of Pre–Degree Studies at the time would always come with water for me every week whenever he was coming down to the campus. May God continue to bless him for the sacrifices he made for me. The challenge of balancing the academic workload alongside that of my health was a tough one but in the end, it all got better.
How supportive were your parents towards your academic aspirations?
My parents were very supportive regarding my academics and my life in general. I was technically provided with everything I needed to excel so I had no excuse and there’s no other way to say thank you than to make them proud for all of the efforts and sacrifices they made.
Were you involved in extracurricular activities while in school?
To be a completely successful person in life, one has to impact his immediate society positively. I was part of different organisations. I was among the organising team that planned and executed the first-ever edition of IEEE day at the Lagos State University. I was once an executive of a campus fellowship, and also an active student member of the Society of Petroleum Engineering (SPE) just to mention a few.
Do you think your outstanding academic record can be beaten?
Yes, absolutely. It remains 0.03 grade point so I believe it can be beaten. I am sure that nobody would have ever thought that the 4.95 record (set by both) would be beaten anytime soon but it has happened even sooner than expected.
What are your future plans?
I can’t say assuredly if I am ready for life after school. However, I already resolved to make the best of every opportunity that comes my way. I am currently serving at Agbara, Ogun State but I plan to go for my post-graduate studies. Perhaps, a master’s degree or if God willing a PhD.
