At the 15th Convocation Ceremony of Osun State University, Osogbo, the spotlight shone brightly on Miss Faidat Sonia Adetu, who emerged as the Best Graduating Student with a remarkable Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.86 from the Department of Mechanical Engineering. Her powerful speech captured the spirit of resilience, gratitude, and vision for the future, leaving the audience deeply inspired.
Addressing dignitaries, she acknowledged the presence of the University Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Professor Odunayo Clement Adebooye, as well as Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke. She also saluted the Principal Officers, members of the Senate and Faculty, alongside parents and families whose sacrifices, she said, formed the backbone of the graduates’ success stories.
In her words, the occasion was not just a celebration of academic achievements, but “the beginning of a greater journey.” She urged her fellow graduates to embrace the new chapter of their lives with courage, determination, and hope, noting that life beyond the university is filled with challenges but also opportunities.
Quoting the words of Isaac Newton, she reminded the gathering: “If I have seen far, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” According to her, the quote symbolises the importance of mentorship, guidance, and learning from those who have gone ahead. She stressed that progress is never made in isolation but is built upon the foundations already laid by predecessors.
Miss Adetu encouraged the graduating class to actively seek mentors, embrace teamwork, and draw strength from the wisdom of others. “We can go further by learning from others,” she affirmed, urging her peers to approach the future with resilience, gratitude, and the courage to dream without limits. She envisioned the Class of 2025 as future “giants” whose achievements would inspire upcoming generations.
Her heartfelt gratitude was a key highlight of the speech, as she recognized the roles played by her mentors, lecturers, and friends in shaping her journey. She expressed appreciation to the academic staff of Osun State University, particularly her Head of Department, Dr. Sean Oyelami, whom she praised for his unwavering commitment to the students of Mechanical Engineering.
She also extended her appreciation to Professor Tai Ozaide-Wale and Provost, Professor R. S. B. Akinde, for their roles in nurturing her growth. She acknowledged that without their dedication and guidance, her academic journey would not have been as impactful and successful.
In addition to her lecturers, Miss Adetu gave special thanks to her siblings—Mrs. Atinuke Ishola, Ajibola Ade Ishola-Ridwan, and Shyambala Adetu—for their consistent support and encouragement. She also appreciated her close friends and seniors, including Favo Adedeji, Amina Ade Boyo, Awosika Samson, and Mr. Ade Tai-Oriyomi. According to her, the bond of friendship and teamwork with classmates and colleagues made her university experience truly rewarding.
Perhaps the most emotional moment of her address was her tribute to her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Olawale Haruna and Titilope Latifat Adetu, whom she asked to stand for recognition. Fighting back tears, she acknowledged their love, sacrifices, and encouragement as the foundation of her success, describing them as her true pillars of strength.
Reflecting on her earlier journey, Miss Adetu recalled how she once struggled after winning the Best Female Science Student in Nigeria in 2020, during the same competition where she also emerged best in biology and top overall in technology nationwide. Despite the challenges that followed, she said the resilience and prayers of her parents gave her the courage to press forward.
She proudly dedicated her latest achievement at Osun State University to them, describing it as the fruit of their unwavering support. The dedication sparked loud applause from the audience, as many were visibly moved by her humility and sincerity.
Miss Adetu concluded her speech with a congratulatory message to her fellow graduates, encouraging them to continue chasing their dreams with integrity and purpose. “May the Class of 2025 carry resilience, gratitude, and courage to dream without limits,” she declared, affirming her belief in the bright future ahead for her colleagues.
In her closing words, she offered prayers for the continued growth of the university and for prosperity in Osun State. “God bless Osun State University and God bless Osun State,” she said, sealing her speech with a message of gratitude and hope.
Her inspiring words added an unforgettable dimension to the convocation ceremony, setting the tone for what many described as a celebration of excellence, resilience, and the promise of greater achievements ahead.
