A Computer Science graduate shares his university experience with UCJ UI
UCJ UI: Can we meet u sir
Daniel Nkemelu: I’m Daniel Nkemelu; a graduate of Computer Science, University of Ibadan.
UCJ UI: It’s so good to have u
Daniel Nkemelu: It’s a pleasure, Sir.
UCJ UI: Can you please share some of your U.I experiences with us
Daniel Nkemelu: I had a lot of experiences at the University of Ibadan: social, academic, leadership; you may want to be specific.
UCJ UI: Okay sir. We hardly meet faces like yours, but coming to your social experience, imaginably, I see you as a nerd. But can you share your social experience with us first.
Daniel Nkemelu: Ha-ha! Well, one very interesting benefit of university education is the opportunity to have enriching learning experiences beyond the classroom. I took advantage of social activities on campus like participating in competitions like the Hult Prize UI, contributing my technical expertise to events like the Jaw War, serving in committees at the Departmental, Faculty and Hall levels… amongst others.
UCJ UI: Wow! This simply means you are an all rounder
Daniel Nkemelu: Well, you can say that, I consciously put effort to maintain a balance.
UCJ UI: There is a saying that you either choose UISU which is extra-curricular, or your CGPA. How then did you achieve a 7.0 CGPA alongside the extra curricula activities you participated?
Daniel Nkemelu: Well, I would say that I had some factors in place. My foundational understanding of my course of study, my personal ability to manage time and prioritise tasks; most importantly, the grace of God. I remember during the campaigns of an SU aspirant, I moved straight from the manifesto ground to the library. Laws are meant to be broken by those who dare. There are success stories like Alayande Ayantola Maximus who excellently served as PRO of the Union and graduated with a First Class. Well… I meant laws that limit our abilities.
UCJ UI: Well said sir. However, let us assume I am a fresh man…
Daniel Nkemelu: Ok?
UCJ UI: or a returning student whose CGPA is in the mud. How would you mentor or motivate such person. What steps will you advice he or she takes
Daniel Nkemelu: From my perspective and experience, I talk about 3 things and they all complement each other…
UCJ UI: And they are?
Daniel Nkemelu: One. Define who you want to be! A successful doctor? The best public speaker ever seen in the land? The greatest of leaders? The setter of record CGPAs? Who do you want to be? This is different from WHAT others want for you; the university allows for self-discovery. There are many unfulfilled people and ‘underachievers’ with high grades and as many global changers with lower grades. So first thing, focus on that which really reflects who you want to be and start working at it immediately.
Two. Learn, Unlearn and Relearn: You may have to drop some notions and pick up new ways of doing things. You must be open to learn! Join groups, meet people, attend events, challenge yourself. At this point, mistakes are allowed but be open to learn from everyone; from the cabman down to your course mates, everyone has something you can learn from.
Three. Good grades don’t hurt: We may not all have perfect CGPAs or be on First Class but you must give your best to your studies. You should ask yourself two questions when you see your result: Does this reflect the best of my ability? and Do I need to find smarter ways to perform better? None of these three is more important than the other.
UCJ UI: In your first rule, you mentioned that we should define who you want to be. This popped my mind to a question; Who do you want to be?
Daniel Nkemelu: I want to be a Daniel. One who through wisdom from God, personal experiences and books made massive impact in his generation. I want to be involved in Africa’s rise to global dominance. It may take time and sacrifice, but we will get there. I will understand if you don’t understand
UCJ UI: That’s a wonderful dream sir. Let’s come back to reality. Perhaps, your dream Daniel had help help from God when there was no technology and his story is still being told. Sir! Who do you see yourself becoming in the nearest future.
Daniel Nkemelu: On the short term, I should have acquired postgraduate experience in a more specific area of Computer Science and should be leading or working with a group solving problems with technology by ‘building cool stuff.
UCJ UI: I remember what our parents do tell us before we assume school that we shouldn’t join groups. Some goes to the extent of saying “any group at all”. But it’s like you want us to disobey our Parents. On a light note, which kind of group(s) are you specific about as you know there are many groups on campus? Is it kegite groups, clubs, groups of strictly business people? Please, enlighten a freshman
Daniel Nkemelu: Thank you. I should re-emphasise those 3 steps I mentioned work together. You should read and understand the ideas, goals and objectives of these groups before you join them. They should align with morals, common sense and your dreams of who you want to be. Those interested in leadership and being active citizens can think of groups like JCI, SIGMA CLUB, AISIEC, ROTARACT and so on. Creative writers and speakers can join groups like UCJ, SUPC, TLDS and the likes. There are quite a number of groups, speaking with an experienced student too can help your choice of membership.
UCJ UI: You mentioned creating cool stuff earlier
Daniel Nkemelu: Yes?
UCJ UI: Talking of technology in Nigeria…what can you say about the level computer literacy, technological development and digital divide?
Daniel Nkemelu: Well, I would say we are still far from where we ought to be but we are certainly not where we used to be. More people are learning to use computers and it’s applications; there are institutes like Andela and Slatecube, students are introduced to computers at all levels of education, institutions are automating their processes, states like Lagos training people to code at different centres, hubs in different cities like CCHub and IdeaHub in Lagos, Wennovation Hub in Ibadan, more people are being asked by banks to use ATMs and transactions are becoming largely successful, according to NCC about 100m Nigerians have Internet access and more would be reached in the coming year. There are several promising startups in Nigeria and the tech ecosystem is growing fast; you would wonder why Mark Zuckerberg came around last year to see for himself. In all these, there is still a lot to be done.
UCJ UI: All said and done, what is your opinion on the digitization going on in the country and what are the implications on the common or average Nigerian
Daniel Nkemelu: Well, economists would say that we are transferring services to be rendered by humans to computers and this may not be good for the job sector. However, we must accept that technology has come to stay, to make life better, and make things easier and more accurate. We shall embrace it, train as many people as possible and go ahead to strengthen other sectors of our economy where manpower is still a necessity.
UCJ UI: Moving to other things. History has a way of writing itself or is it people who have a way of writing history. Whichever it is…there is one recipe used to spice it up; Love. So, Mr. Daniel, let’s talk about your love life. Many a student get their life partner on campus. Did you have any of such relationships?
Daniel Nkemelu: Well, when you come to a school like the University of Ibadan, you would certainly meet a number of amazing people. So, yes! I had very enriching relationships in school.
UCJ UI: Would you like to explain further or is it a no go area?
Daniel Nkemelu: Well, let’s leave it at that. I would just add that there is nothing wrong in having an emotional experience on campus, I think it’s part of the university training and there are countless successful marriages that started here. Some good relationships can drive one to be better and focused if properly handled. But if it would distract you, it’s better to steer clear until you are matured enough to handle the pressure. It’s advisable, however, that all forms of relationships have pure intentions and set boundaries.
UCJ UI: Well…shall I say thanks again for your time? But there is one more thing. A 7.0 CGPA graduate is not just hot cake for the labour market; it is also a criterion in the ladies arena. So, Mr. Daniel sir Are you single or otherwise?
Daniel Nkemelu: I’m single; priorities are set on career goals at present
UCJ UI: Any last words sir?
Daniel Nkemelu: In the end, everyone should endeavour to use their talents and gifts to give back; to their community, their school, their country, to humanity. Give Back.
UCJ UI: That does it! We appreciate your presence sir. Thanks for granting us audience
Daniel Nkemelu: Thank you very much. My sincere appreciations to UCJ UI.
