It is every parent’s dream to have their children comfortably studying in the University.
As a child, I had high hopes. I hoped to study abroad. You know, with the crumbling system of education in Nigeria, who wouldn’t! And believe me, I tried. I can still remember my conversation with my Uncle, who insisted I got admitted into a university in Nigeria and start going to school then we could discuss going abroad. Well, I said to myself, if I wasn’t going abroad for my first degree, then I’m certainly not going to just any school.
The University of Nigeria Nsukka, otherwise called UNN was established in 1955 but officially opened in 1960 by the then Governor-general of Nigeria, Nnamdi Azikiwe. This great institution has over 36,000 students studying different courses in the 15 faculties. It is the most prestigious federal university in the South East.
My Decision to Study Here in the Country
Despite all the challenges that came with studying here in Nigeria, I’ve come to appreciate my choice and every bit of the experience. One good thing about studying in a federal university is the exposure it comes with. So many parents these days are afraid to let their children off into the world all by themselves, and I don’t blame them.
They have this urge to protect and keep them in check and that is why they opt for private universities. Where students are kept in check and kept in custody. They can’t leave the school premises without permission. While I am not against it, I am not in total agreement with that system.
Yes the world we live in is so dangerous and anything can happen but you as a parent cannot always protect your child. At some point that child will have to make decisions, and how can they make solid decisions when all their lives decisions have been made for them.
I particularly liked the fact that I got away from home because I got the opportunity to decide for myself! It is important to train your child well. Believe me, the level of home training affects the decisions your child will take away from home.
I liked the importance it gave me. I will say, studying at UNN has influenced my decision-making skills greatly and helped to build my self-esteem.
This Great City of Knowledge
A lot of people will agree with me when I say, it wasn’t easy getting admitted into the school. The competition, the strike, high cut-off marks and all. All are designed to select the best. So naturally, the school is full of great minds. Then comes the lectures. And did I forget to mention the lecturers? Aren’t they the scariest humans?
When you get into UNN, you know you’re in for serious business. You either get serious or prepare to fail. So it’s the reading, lectures, assignments, reading again, tests, and exams for four solid years, and more, and when you are done, you’re grounded in your discipline, in human relationships, and you can work under pressure.
Some people see the whole system as wicked. But on a closer look, it’s not. Most times the best of us can only show when we’ve gone out of our comfort zones. And most people would rather not leave that comfort zone unless compelled to do so.
So UNN will gladly do you the honors. While you may have nothing to lose, UNN has so much to lose. Her image and reputation are at stake. Don’t get me wrong, the University of Nigeria Nsukka is not all about books.
There are a lot of fun things to do while in the university. A lot of societies, clubs, groups, and associations to join. The university is a society of its own with its government. You can get political experience by joining the SUG (Student Union Government) or even the traditional leadership system. There are also religious groups to join.
These activities are super fun! Remember, all work and no play certainly makes Jack a dull boy. So don’t slack! Get the best of both worlds. Did I mention the prestigious Lion FM? Oh yes, that’s the school’s radio station.
Everybody admitted into the school is referred to as a Lion/Lioness. And during meetings, they are called by their title and in response, they roar (as a lion would).
The Den and Her Lions
Indeed it is a den of Lions. This great institution has produced a good number of prestigious individuals who have made names for themselves. These individuals are proofs of the institution’s great achievements.
The likes of Chinua Achebe, Charles Chukwuma Soludo, Patrick Utomi, Godwin Emefiele, Michael J.C. Echeruo, Alexander Animalu, Adiele Afigbo, and so on, in the literal world. In politics, people like Dora Akunyili, Olisa Agbakoba, Chimaroke Nnamani, Peter Obi, Peter Odili, Patrick Utomi, Chris Ngige, Ike Ekweremadu, Sullivan Chime, to mention but a few.
In entertainment, the likes of Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Zack Orji, Nnaemeka Ubaekwena, Aroma Ufodike, Chris Okotie, Aituaje Iruobe (WAJE), and many more. Even my humble self!
It is obvious, this great institution is one to reckon with. Even in Nigeria, you can still get the best. So don’t give up hope yet until you’ve tried the best!
