Three children, two degrees: UNILAG couple beat odds to graduate

UNILAG Distance Learning couple Olawale Olulaja and Blessing Chigozie defied marriage, parenthood, COVID-19, and strikes to graduate together—earning degrees in Business Administration and Accountancy while raising three children—showcasing resilience, sacrifice, and mutual support.

Mr Olawale Olulaja and wife Blessing Chigozie graduated together from University of Lagos’ Distance Learning Institute. He earned Business Administration, she Accountancy, despite parenting three kids.

The couple overcame marriage, parenthood, and academic disruptions. Olawale started earlier, finishing outstanding courses when Blessing neared completion. “We understand ourselves,” he said, coping with study pressures.

Blessing started in 2018, discovering Olawale hadn’t finished. She urged him to complete, graduating together. Their 7-year journey coincided with three kids, COVID-19, and strikes.

Blessing attended classes 6 months postpartum, CS stitches still fresh. Once, she spent a week-long residential program with her baby due to lack of childcare. “I just had to bear the pain,” she said.

She urges Nigerians, especially women, not to wait for convenience: “Face your challenge, you’ll survive.” Blessing relied on extra tutorials, sacrificing weekends.

The couple’s graduation symbolizes sacrifice, resilience, and mutual support. Next, Blessing plans ICAN certification.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, PUNCH