Aderinto Shalom Eniola, a Basic Nursing student of the Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences, Eleyele, Ibadan, has emerged as the leading student in her class, attaining an impressive aggregate score of 776.4. Her outstanding academic performance has earned her recognition as the best student among her peers, reflecting excellence, commitment, and diligence in the pursuit of nursing education.
The recognition took place during the Capping and Knotting of Tie ceremony held for National Diploma students of the College on Wednesday. The ceremony, which is one of the most symbolic milestones in nursing education, marks the formal transition of students from classroom learning to professional clinical practice.
During the event, the Provost of the College, Dr. Gbonjubola Owolabi, personally performed the capping for Aderinto Shalom, in recognition of her exceptional performance and leadership qualities. The Provost described her as “a shining example of what dedication and focus can achieve,” encouraging other students to emulate her academic discipline and commitment to excellence.
Dr. Owolabi also used the occasion to commend the entire set of National Diploma students for their resilience and hard work. She emphasized that nursing remains a noble and demanding profession that requires not just intellectual ability but also compassion, integrity, and service to humanity.
In her brief remark after receiving the honour, Aderinto Shalom expressed gratitude to God, her lecturers, and family members for their continuous support. She described the achievement as a motivation to strive even harder and to make meaningful contributions to the health sector after graduation.
The Provost further charged all students of the institution to remain focused on their academic goals and to uphold the high moral and professional standards expected of nurses. She also highlighted the College’s commitment to producing competent and ethical professionals who will strengthen healthcare delivery in Oyo State and Nigeria at large.
The Capping and Knotting of Tie ceremony was attended by members of the academic board, lecturers, parents, and well-wishers of the students. It featured prayers, inspirational speeches, and the symbolic presentation of caps and ties representing readiness for clinical responsibilities.
Dr. Owolabi reiterated that the College would continue to provide a conducive environment for learning and practical training, aligning its curriculum with global nursing standards. She noted that the government of Oyo State, under Governor Seyi Makinde, has continued to support the College through infrastructural improvements and academic upgrades.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to outstanding students in various academic and practical categories, with Aderinto Shalom receiving the overall best student recognition. The audience applauded her for setting a high standard for academic excellence within the institution.
The Provost concluded the ceremony by encouraging the students to remain ambassadors of the College wherever they serve, reminding them that their commitment to excellence will reflect not only on themselves but also on the reputation of the nursing profession in Nigeria.
