University of Uyo’s Best Graduating Medical Student, Dr. Joseph Peter Akpan, Breaks Records with 10 Distinctions

Dr. Joseph Peter Akpan made history as the best graduating medical student at the University of Uyo, earning 10 distinctions out of 11 courses despite significant challenges, setting a new academic record, and inspiring future medical students.

The University of Uyo made history at its 23rd Physicians’ Oath-Taking Ceremony (Sponsio Academica) as Dr. Joseph Peter Akpan emerged as the best graduating medical student, earning an unprecedented 10 distinctions out of 11 courses. His outstanding academic performance set a new benchmark for excellence at the institution.

As Dr. Joseph walked up to the stage to receive his well-deserved awards in cash and cheques, the auditorium erupted in applause. His family, friends, and colleagues beamed with pride, celebrating his extraordinary achievement. The journey to this moment had been anything but easy—Joseph had faced financial difficulties and personal setbacks but remained steadfast in his pursuit of excellence. His dedication, resilience, and hard work had now paid off in a way that exceeded even his own expectations.

What made his feat even more remarkable was that he achieved distinctions in courses where such honors were traditionally rare. Additionally, he became the first Akwa Ibomite in a long time to emerge as the university’s overall best graduating medical student, breaking a pattern in which this recognition had often gone to students from other states.

The ceremony, held at the university’s 1,000-seat auditorium, drew a massive crowd that exceeded its capacity. Among the attendees were senior medical professionals, university faculty, proud parents, and well-wishers of the 64 new doctors taking their physician’s oath, administered by the Registrar of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, Dr. Fatima Kyari, who was represented at the event.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Uyo, Prof. Nyaudoh U. Ndaeyo, urged the young doctors to embrace continuous learning, emphasizing that medicine is an ever-evolving field. He congratulated Dr. Joseph on his exceptional performance while reminding all graduates that each of them had achieved something remarkable.

Akwa Ibom State’s Commissioner for Education, Dr. Ubong Umoh, also addressed the gathering, commending parents for their sacrifices. He encouraged the new doctors never to look down on their parents, reminding them that every child is an “improved version” of their parents.

Following the formal ceremony, celebrations spilled into the city as the young doctors gathered with friends and family to mark the occasion. Dr. Joseph hosted his guests near the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, where he reflected on his journey.

“I’m both happy and surprised,” he admitted. “At one point, I called my mother and told her I wanted to withdraw from medical school. She threatened to disown me if I did. Looking back, I’m grateful I stayed.”

He credited much of his success to his study group, pointing out that three of the seven students who earned distinctions were part of the same group. His story is one of perseverance, determination, and the power of academic collaboration.

Dr. Joseph Peter Akpan’s achievement will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration to future generations of medical students, proving that with hard work and resilience, excellence is within reach.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, DAILY CHAMPION