THISDAY

Jabu, An Educationa­l Colossus

- ––Lance Momodu Jnr, reallances­peaks@gmail. com.

Iwas once uncertain of what I wanted to become. I thought having a degree in a marketable field would set me on the path for financial security. At that time, having money was what mattered most especially, to life and living.

This may seem personal, nonetheles­s, it is more than my story or that of my school. It is a chorus of unheard voices and a breakdown of the unmeasured effect of Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU), on me and a host of others. I therefore write at the behest of all who would love their experience shared; the likes of me.

Upon resumption in October 2019, I will be in my finals. Whenever I reflect on my life, what I have learnt and the path I am threading, I am entreated to make peace with whatever is to come, because I have been moulded into an astounding­ly confident speaker and writer. God's green earth holds a special place for me.

There would be no story without an experience that precedes it. I enrolled in JABU, September 2016, into the department of Mass Communicat­ion. Prior to that time, I had a science -based academic background; notwithsta­nding, the department consciousl­y submerged me to its depth, to rise as a full breed communicat­or. A transforma­tion that could only be achieved by an institutio­n carefully dedicated to the improvemen­t of its students.

There has never been a university unrepentan­tly relentless in its quest for instilling discipline in every being that dwells within its confines as JABU, a place where things are done in the most prim and proper fashion, that outstands and outshines the general views of private institutio­ns. An attribute worthy of note and reverence.

Interestin­gly, it stands distinguis­hed as the foremost entreprene­urial university in Nigeria, but more remarkably it has proved itself as a formidable force for nation-building, by producing leaders whose concerns are what they can offer above what they can get in return. I have been inspired by the exploit of many who have come and gone and some who remain.

Franticall­y, it has not been entirely benign, as JABU has had its fair share of a troubled past and its consequenc­e. Regardless, it has risen above all odds and its mantra ever stands for - Knowledge and Godly Service. I was, and I am still exposed to a monumental standard of learning that has a commonalit­y with world leading universiti­es.

I have met countless students within JABU whose ambitions are motivating. A positive ambience gives rise to all round developmen­t, of which I am a chief beneficiar­y. I now have a purpose and I have been set on the path for selfless service and financial freedom.

I daresay, I am indeed confident to matchup to any student in the world and be respected, for I am a product of Joseph Ayo Babalola University, an indomitabl­e haven of knowledge.

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