How a UNIJOS Computer Science Graduate Achieved a First-Class Degree With 4.82 CGPA

The overall best graduating student of the University of Jos has revealed that daily reading, discipline and consistency were the major factors behind her academic success, as the institution celebrated its combined convocation and Golden Jubilee ceremony in Jos.

Chine-me Rueben Esor, a Computer Science graduate who finished with a First Class degree and a cumulative grade point average of 4.82, shared her experience during an interview shortly after the convocation ceremony. She described the achievement as deeply emotional, expressing gratitude to her family, lecturers and friends who supported her throughout her academic journey.

Esor said her success was driven by determination and strong personal motivation, particularly from her mother, who constantly reminded her of the sacrifices made to ensure she received a quality education. According to her, coming from a modest background pushed her to take her studies seriously and remain focused on her goals.

She explained that consistent daily reading played a major role in her performance, noting that she studied almost every day throughout her undergraduate years. While some classmates felt she had little social life, she maintained that discipline and balance were essential to achieving academic excellence.

Esor stressed that success in higher education requires more than talent, adding that hard work, consistency and time management are critical for students aiming for top academic results. Her outstanding performance earned her several awards, including the Chancellor’s Prize, the Pro-Chancellor and Governing Council Prize, and the Vice-Chancellor’s Prize.

Looking ahead, the first-class graduate revealed plans to further her education, with a strong interest in robotics and emerging technologies. She said her long-term goal is to apply advanced technological knowledge to address Nigeria’s security challenges and contribute meaningfully to national development.

The convocation ceremony saw tens of thousands of graduands awarded various degrees and certificates across multiple disciplines, marking a significant milestone in the university’s academic history.

During the event, the Federal Government urged graduating students to apply their knowledge and skills toward national development. The message emphasised the importance of education in driving economic growth, innovation, job creation and national security.

The government also reaffirmed its commitment to the education sector, highlighting increased budgetary allocations, student loan programmes, digital skills development, entrepreneurship initiatives and investments in research and innovation as part of broader reforms.

University leadership highlighted major achievements recorded by the institution in recent years, including improved global rankings and academic expansion. The Vice-Chancellor noted that the university has grown significantly in faculties and academic programmes despite longstanding funding challenges that have affected infrastructure development.

He disclosed that the institution now boasts 17 faculties and 93 academic programmes, compared to just a few faculties at inception. He also revealed that the university has been selected as one of Nigeria’s Technology Centres of Excellence, with a focus on Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, positioning it as a key player in technology-driven education.

Despite financial constraints, the university leadership expressed optimism about future growth, acknowledging the support of government agencies, development partners, alumni and other stakeholders.

The convocation ceremony also featured the conferment of honorary degrees on distinguished individuals in recognition of their contributions to national development and humanity.