AFRICA | A brilliant Nigerian lady named Mary Otunba has defied the odds to earn a First-Class Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Caleb University, Nigeria.
Her exceptional academic achievements and determination have now earned her a fully funded scholarship to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Indiana University – Kelley School of Business, in the United States.
In 2013, she began her undergraduate studies at Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, even though she was not initially enthusiastic about it. Nevertheless, she excelled, earning a National Diploma (ND) in Accountancy with Distinction in 2015.
After completing her diploma, Mary found herself uncertain about the next step. However, fortune smiled on her when she secured an internship with a prestigious organization.
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This opportunity gave her valuable experience and set her on the path toward becoming a Chartered Accountant. In 2016, many of Mary’s peers were writing the Accounting Technician Program (ATS) exams.
Encouraged by their influence, she took the bold step of registering. She cleared all four papers and got inducted that same year. The following year, she began her Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) journey, funding it with the stipend she earned from work.
Sadly, her father passed away during this period, leaving her without financial support. At the same time, she learned about Caleb University’s Distance Learning Program and decided to enroll.
With no financial backing, tuition fees became a burden. Friends encouraged her to choose between ICAN and a Bachelor’s degree, but she refused to give up on either.
” I had nothing to prove to anyone but thought whether or not I discontinue this programs. Money would be spent,” she said.
Due to the situation, Mary made countless sacrifices, forgoing luxuries and even basic comforts to fund her education. She lived in an uncompleted building for months just to stay closer to work.
”Thanks to the friends that kept clothing and feeding me. Don’t worry, I won’t mention your names. Just be rest assured I owe you,” he said.
Despite juggling multiple challenges—including financial difficulties, undergraduate stress, and the COVID-19 pandemic—Mary remained committed to her studies.
In 2019, she achieved a significant milestone by becoming a Chartered Accountant while still pursuing her undergraduate degree.
She ended her final semester with a perfect 5.00 Grade Point Average (GPA), graduating in 2020 as the Best Graduating Student of her department.
”Now, I step into the world knowing fully well that my victory is sure. I step out beyond boundaries knowing that my past is way behind me. Not looking back and forging ahead of the plenty nights of tears and worry,” she said.
Continuing her pursuit of academic excellence, Mary earned a fully funded scholarship and the prestigious Forté Fellowship from the Forté Foundation to study for an MBA at Indiana University – Kelley School of Business, USA.
Looking ahead, Mary is focused on her personal and professional growth as she embarks on the next phase of her journey.
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