My journey began in November 2001 as a Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) student at Tai Solarin College of Education, studying Mathematics and Economics. Today, I stand before the world wearing the gown of a PhD graduate in Educational Evaluation, proudly called Dr. Kayode Adewale.
This achievement is not because my parents had wealth or privileges, but because some extraordinary people saw potential in me as a youth and chose to invest, mentor, and support me. Their generosity, belief, and guidance metamorphosed into the celebration I am experiencing today.
From NCE to B.Sc. (Ed.), Master’s in Education, and now a PhD, my journey has been intentional. I refused to let my background—being “nobody’s child”—determine the heights I could reach. Along the way, I traveled to the USA twice and earned recognition both nationally and internationally, all because of determination, faith in God, and the mentors who believed in me.
I remember being a student at Abobi Comprehensive High School, Ago Iwoye, in 2001, when someone told me that the money my parents spent on my SSCE would be wasted. On that day, I promised myself—and even that person—that their investment would not be in vain. Today, I am proud to say that promise has been fulfilled.
One of the most important lessons I have learned is that prayers, divine positioning, and intentional mentorship are essential. God places people in our paths to open doors and guide us at the right time. I am forever grateful to all those who became instruments in my journey:
*Prof. Adesanya, the first person to tell me, “You can do it—go for it!”
*EduTAMS, the company that stepped in when all hope seemed lost at the University of Ibadan for my doctorate program. If EduTAMS had ignored the potential they saw in me, I may not have been called Dr. Kayode Adewale today.
* Dr. Ademola Adenubi, for your encouragement, mentorship, and support, both moral and financial.
* Prof. Adefunke Ekine and Prof. Olugbenga Oworu, for believing in me and recommending me to EduTAMS in 2019—your faith has produced this result.
* My supervisors, Prof. Olufemi Ajayi and Prof. O.J. Akorede, for your guidance and mentorship.
* My lecturers, principals, pastor, for your prayers, guidance, and unwavering support over the years.
* The Ogun State Government, whose support through my teaching salary enabled me to continue my first and second degrees.
* My parents, Chief and Mrs. Segun Adewale, my wonderful wife and children, and all my friends and family—thank you for the roles you played in this journey.
Today is a testament to intentionality, perseverance, faith in God, and the power of mentorship. To every young person reading this: where you are born, or how you are born, does not determine how far you can go in life. Your circumstances are not your destiny. Determination, focus, prayers, and seeking God’s guidance will move mountains.
To those with the capacity to support, mentor, and invest in young people: take a moment to see the potential around you. The life you change today may one day be a story like mine—someone wearing the academic gown and standing tall because someone believed in them when the world had not yet noticed.
I am Dr. Kayode Adewale today because I was intentional, determined, and surrounded by mentors, prayers, and divine guidance. I share this not to celebrate myself alone, but to inspire youth everywhere: with faith, focus, and support, nothing is impossible.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.