The University of Lagos (UNILAG) celebrated academic excellence at its 55th convocation ceremonies, where Abdulafeez Olaitan was recognised as the Best Graduating Student from the Department of Physics.
Graduating with a First-Class Honours degree in Applied Physics (4.78/5.0), the outstanding student also clinched two prestigious awards—the Late Prof. C.O. Taiwo Prize for Best Graduating Student and the HOD Prize for Best All-Round Performance.
In a stellar academic record, Olaitan achieved 50 A’s, 9 B’s, and 3 C’s in 144 course units while balancing the demands of full-time work in digital media and communications. The graduate’s commitment to excellence was further rewarded with four scholarships for academic distinction and a nomination by the Vice-Chancellor to attend the 3rd Zenith Bank Tech Fair.
Beyond academics, Olaitan served as Editor-in-Chief of The Press Club, UNILAG, for three years, leading the team to elevate the quality of campus reporting and digital journalism. Demonstrating a passion for research and innovation, the graduate completed a research training program at the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, and excelled in the Asset & Resource Management Holding Company (ARM HoldCo) Young Talent Program.
A versatile storyteller, Olaitan has earned nominations for the Pushcart Prize and the Rhysling Award for literary works and conducted over 100 impactful interviews with students, edtech founders, and first-class graduates in 2023.
Reflecting on the journey, Olaitan expressed gratitude to mentors, family, and friends for their unwavering support. “Cheers to breaking boundaries and inspiring others on their journey,” Olaitan concluded.
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