In a heartening tale of determination and lifelong learning, 60-year-old Farouk Sanni has emerged as the top graduate in the Department of Sociology at the University of Ibadan.
Farouk, a retired banker, shared his inspiring journey during the 75th convocation ceremony, shedding light on his motivation to delve into the study of human behavior.
Having initially studied accounting at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, at the insistence of an uncle, Farouk found himself drawn to sociology in his quest to understand the intricacies of human behavior. After a fulfilling career at UBA, he embarked on a new challenge, prioritizing both his health and intellectual curiosity.
Undeterred by the age difference in his academic environment, Farouk narrates the unique experience of studying alongside individuals who could be his children. Despite being called "Daddy" or "Mr. Sanni," he remained focused on his academic pursuits, navigating the challenges of being an older student with grace.
Farouk's commitment and hard work paid off, as he not only graduated with a First-Class degree but also clinched eight awards in recognition of his outstanding achievements. Dr. Oludayo Tade, a lecturer in the department, shared anecdotes of Farouk's dedication, recounting how he often found him reading under a tree in the faculty of social sciences.
In one instance, Dr. Tade discovered Farouk with a chair tied to a tree on Ileya day, dedicatedly preparing for his studies. When asked about his unconventional study space, Farouk humorously replied that he had already taken care of his responsibilities for the day, ensuring his children had everything they needed.
Farouk's story serves as a testament to the idea that it's never too late to pursue one's passions and aspirations. His resilience, coupled with his academic success, inspires individuals of all ages to embrace the journey of lifelong learning. Farouk Sanni, the 60-year-old sociology graduate, stands as a beacon of determination, proving that age is no barrier to academic excellence.
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