In a remarkable feat, Isaac Aduragbemi Akindunbi, a graduate of Civil and Environmental Engineering, emerged as the Best Graduating Student of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), 2024 set with a record-breaking CGPA of 4.98, the highest in the institution’s history.
In this interview with Justus Adetomiwa, he speaks on his academic journey, the role of mentorship and faith, the financial and health challenges he overcame and his aspirations for the future, offering inspiration to students who dare to pursue excellence against all odds.
Which course did you study at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)?
I studied Civil and Environmental Engineering.
Why did you choose Civil and Environmental Engineering as your course of study?
I was fascinated by seeing engineers wearing helmets and working on road projects. I researched the profession, found it interesting and decided it was the right course for me.
You are the best graduating student of the 2024 set, and you also graduated with the highest CGPA in the history of FUTA, 4.98. How does this achievement make you feel?
I feel very great and extremely happy. I am grateful that I was able to achieve this, and I hope it will encourage a lot of people who are coming behind me.
Did you receive any award for achieving this feat?
Yes I received an award for it.
At what point did you realise you were going to graduate with a near-perfect CGPA?
I only became certain after my final semester result was released. Before then, there was no way to be sure because CGPA is very sensitive and a small margin of error can cause it to drop.
Records show that you had a 5.0 GPA in about eight semesters. Is that correct?
Yes, that is correct.
How were you able to achieve a 5.0 GPA in so many semesters? What study strategies worked for you?
God factor is a major thing. My personal belief started from 100 level and that was because I related with seniors who were ahead of me and asked them many questions; I learnt from their experiences, including their mistakes, and applied those lessons. After I saw my results for the first semester I had 4.95.
Your first semester CGPA was 4.95. How significant was that result to your journey?
It was a huge game changer. I was not expecting it because it was my very first result. When I saw 4.95, it made me realise that if I could put in more efforts, I could achieve even more.
So even a 4.95 was not enough for you?
A: Yes. I believed I could do better. The B I had came from a chemistry practical course, not a full examination, and that motivated me to push myself further.
Would you say mentorship was one of the major factors behind your success?
Yes, mentorship played a very important role in my success.
During your time at FUTA, did you face any challenge?
Yes, I did. Academically, not much, although there were some courses I struggled with. Financially, I faced serious challenges. After secondary school, I could not write JAMB immediately I had to wait for a year because of financial constraints.
At one point I had health issues and My phone got stolen and these challenges came during the time I was preparing for examinations.
How were you eventually able to gain admission into FUTA?
I was teaching at the time, and a parent of one of the students I was tutoring asked about my admission. After I explained my financial situation, she offered to sponsor my first year. That support made it possible for me to start my education at FUTA.
Did the financial challenges persist throughout your stay in school?
Things improved later, I earned some income as a video editor and also benefited from scholarships, which helped reduce the financial burden.
Did you get any support from family or friends?
Yes I did, they were very supportive. My parents were always calling to check up on me especially during the times I faced challenges. When they saw that I was able to get someone to sponsor my first year fees, they also made sure that they handled the rest of the expenses like rent and foodstuffs. Also, my friends were very supportive. I believe one of the reasons why I was able to achieve all of this was because of the kind of community I had behind me.
Can you mention some of the scholarships you received during your time at FUTA?
I received the Emerson Scholarship Foundation Award, FSB Scholarship, Agbami Chevron Scholarship, and the Seplat Scholarship.
You also mentioned health challenges. Can you tell us about them?
During my junior level second semester, I had a serious health issue during the examination period, but I still finished that semester with a 5.0 GPA. At another point, I had a skin infection that caused severe discomfort, yet I managed to push through my exams.
You said you lost your phone at a critical time. How did that affect you?
At 400 level, my iPhone, which I used for schoolwork and video editing, was stolen during exams. A few days later, my Android phone also developed a fault. It affected me mentally, but I reminded myself that I had not come this far to give up, so I repaired the Android and continued.
Despite all these challenges, you still recorded 5.0 GPAs. What kept you going?
Coming to FUTA was not originally planned, and I received help from people who believed in me. I was determined to make them proud. I was not aiming to be the best; I was aiming to be the best version of myself. My friends and parents also gave me strong emotional support.
How would you describe your social life as a student?
I did not really have much of a social life, the only thing I had that was close to that was my involvement in school unionism — I was the Financial Secretary of my departmental union, asides that, I was very focused and intentional about my goals.
What are your plans after graduating with a 4.98 CGPA?
This achievement is just the beginning. I plan to gain practical experience in civil engineering in Nigeria and then further my education abroad.
You served as the Financial Secretary of your department. Do you have political aspirations?
For now, no.
What advice would you give to students who believe achieving such a CGPA is impossible?
Stay grounded, disciplined and consistent. Time management is very important. Focus on doing your best every semester rather than chasing titles. Mentorship matters, and your circle of friends should be people who motivate and encourage you positively.