Young Man Breaks Record, Becomes First Person to Graduate With First-Class From His Department

24-Year-Old Abdulbaki Yusuf Sets Record at Nigerian University, Graduates as Pioneer First-Class Mechanical Engineering Student.

Abdulbaki Yusuf, a 24-year-old student, made history as the first-ever graduate to earn a first-class degree in Mechanical Engineering from Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), Nigeria.

With a remarkable cumulative grade point average of 4.79, Yusuf was also recognized as the best-graduating student in his department.

In an interview with Intel Region, Yusuf shared that he had been an excellent student since primary school, even completing secondary school on a scholarship. He attributed his academic success to self-determination, commitment, dedication, and prayer.

“My determination to achieve First Class honours began from the first day I was admitted to study Mechanical Engineering,” Yusuf said. “I am proud to be the pioneer first-class graduate with a CGPA of 4.79 in Mechanical Engineering at UDUS.”

Yusuf described his rigorous study routine, noting that on regular school days, he would spend an additional 3 to 4 hours studying at night. During tests and exams, his study time increased to 12 to 14 hours per day.

Despite his dedication, Yusuf faced significant challenges, including extreme weather conditions, financial constraints, and academic hurdles.

“The harsh weather in Sokoto, especially during the harmattan and dry seasons, was initially difficult to adapt to,” he said. “Financial constraints were a constant struggle, often leaving me with little more than biscuits and water to eat. Additionally, the lack of past exam questions for guidance posed a significant challenge.”

Yusuf credited his family for their support, which helped him overcome these obstacles. Despite the difficulties, he remained focused on his academic goals.

Beyond academics, Yusuf was actively involved in extracurricular activities. He served as the Sports Director of the Nigerian Universities Engineering Students’ Association (NUESA), UDUS chapter, and was a Board of Trustees member of the Ilorin Emirate Students Union at UDUS.

Looking ahead, Yusuf dreams of pursuing a master’s degree at Texas University in the United States. He aspires to become a university lecturer and work as an engineer in both government agencies and private firms. Ultimately, he hopes to establish his own engineering firm, where he can mentor and recruit aspiring young engineers, contributing to the growth and development of the engineering field.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP REGION