A determined Nigerian man named Olabanji Oluwaseyi has overcome years of setbacks to finally earn a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Physics from Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology.
His inspiring academic journey lasted 12 years, a path filled with repeated admission rejections and delays. Despite the challenges, he remained steadfast until he eventually achieved his dream of becoming a university graduate.
Olabanji's Story and How She Did It
After completing his secondary school education in 2014, Oluwaseyi spent six years seeking admission into a Nigerian university.
During that period, he sat for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board examination six times. According to him, he never failed the exam and consistently scored above 200, with his last two scores being 256 and 243.
In his search for admission, he applied to several universities, including the University of Lagos, University of Ilorin, Osun State University, and the University of Ibadan. Despite his good scores, none of the institutions offered him admission at the time.
EXPLORE SCHOLARSHIPS
Reflecting on the experience, Oluwaseyi said the delay was not due to academic failure. “I never failed JAMB. I scored above 200 every single time,” he said.
At the time, he simply believed he was unlucky. “I guess I was just unlucky… very unlucky. Or better still, a victim of the system.”
His breakthrough eventually came in 2019 when he discovered the admission form for Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH) online. Desperate not to lose another year, he decided to apply immediately.
“I saw their post-UTME form online randomly because I was desperate. I couldn’t go another year without admission, so I bought the form,” he said.
He was finally offered admission to study Applied Physics, marking the turning point in his long journey.
Although the course was originally a five-year program, Oluwaseyi spent six years in the university due to disruptions caused by academic strikes and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite the extended timeline, he remained focused and eventually completed his degree with honours. While pursuing his studies, Oluwaseyi also experienced important personal milestones.
In November 2025, he got married, and in December 2025, he welcomed his first child, shortly before completing his degree. For him, graduating while starting a family made the long journey worthwhile.
Reflecting on the experience, he described the moment as achieving three major life victories at once, earning a degree, getting married, and becoming a father.
Follow our Social Media Channels:
- WhatsApp: Scholarship Region WhatsApp
- Facebook: Scholars Region
- Twitter (X): @scholarsregion
- Telegram: Scholarship Region