Breaking academic records at a prestigious institution like the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) is no small feat. Achieving a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 4.96 on a scale of 5.00 and emerging as a co-best graduating student for the 2022/2023 academic session takes extraordinary discipline, focus and intentionality.
That is the story of Johnbull Anuoluwapo Vitowanu of the Department of Industrial and Production Engineering of the university.
For Vitowanu, the journey to the pinnacle of academic excellence is one of faith, resilience and the power of community.
Asked about his achievement, he attributed his success to “discipline, focus, and intentionality,” underpinned by divine guidance. He recalled praying at the volleyball court, asking God that his CGPA would not fall below 4.80.
He added work to his faith, and that prayer bore fruit, as his academic journey never dipped below 4.82 and culminated in a historic 4.96 out of 5.00. His success was built on what he coined the GO AI principle—God, Orientation, Association, and Information.
God: Faith was his cornerstone, guiding him through trials and triumphs.
Orientation: He drew inspiration from mentors like Dr Emmanuel Dansu and benefited from the academic tips shared by Christian organisations like CCF-NIFES.
Association: Surrounding himself with focused and supportive peers elevated his academic performance and theirs, as all his close friends graduated with first-class honours too.
Information: Leveraging resources from lecturers and peers ensured he remained prepared and informed.
Balancing such rigorous academic pursuits with personal well-being and other aspects of life required effective time management. Teaching his peers became an extension of his study routine, enhancing his understanding of concepts. While he made sacrifices, such as curbing his sleep hours, he prioritised holistic growth by ensuring a balance between academics, spirituality, and health.
Challenges were inevitable, but he faced them with tenacity. During his Industrial Training (IT), a severe illness sidelined him for two months, yet he returned to achieve a perfect 5.00 GPA in subsequent semesters.
Financial constraints in his early years meant grappling with hunger on campus, but scholarships from organisations like Chevron and WAPCo eased his burdens, enabling him to study with ease and even offer support to some.
The influence of his lecturers, peers, and family was profound. From professors who ensured he stayed on track, to a selfless mother whose prayers and sacrifices were unwavering.
His community also stood as a pillar of strength. The generosity of friends who housed him during tough times further underscored the impact of kindness and collaboration.
As he prepares for the next chapter, his advice to aspiring students is: “Set measurable goals, stay consistent and surround yourself with people who inspire you to be better.”
He emphasises balancing academics with health and personal growth, embracing challenges as opportunities to excel. Looking ahead, he envisions a future rich with research in robotics and automation, aiming to contribute to technological advancement and community development.
His aspirations include launching an educational platform to inspire and equip future generations in STEM fields.
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