Fine, I am a proud son of Kishi, a community at the far end of Oyo State, close to the border with Kwara and some Northern states. It is a place where development is still slowly picking up, unlike cities like Ibadan, Oyo, and Ogbomosho, where opportunities are everywhere. But I promised myself that my environment would never hold me back. For those who think that is a barrier or an impediment, if you believe where you come from can stop you, then you clearly haven’t met determination before.
After finishing my secondary education at Iba High School, it took me some years to find my way into higher institutions for many reasons, one being that there was no one to guide me or some of my friends. But I refused to waste time crying over the delay. I eventually gained admission into then Emmanuel Alayande College of Education, Oyo, where I studied Economics and Geography.
For those who know me, I am someone who never backs down from my best choices, no matter the risks involved. I gained admission into the country’s best institution of knowledge, the University of Ibadan, for my first degree in Educational Management and Economics, where I graduated with Second Class Honour Division. Gratefully, I returned again for my master’s in Personnel Administration.
Whether the journey is slow or fast, it doesn’t matter, as long as you keep moving forward. And I moved. Today, I am super excited because the waiting, the stresses, the determination, and the good support I received from kindhearted family members and benefactors have yielded positive results.
Today, I am proud of myself and pleased to share the good news that I graduated with the highest honours, PhD grade, and my dissertation was rated excellent. For anyone who knows the University of Ibadan, you will understand — this place is not for the weak. It pushes you, tests you, and only the strongest minds survive. I survived. And I did it with grit, focus, and a little prayer on the side.
Education has given me confidence, a voice, many opportunities, and the ability to stand tall wherever I am. It has shown me that your background, delays, or lack of mentors cannot define your future.
Education is not just about classrooms or certificates; it is about learning, growing, and being ready to face life with wisdom and courage. Through my journey for excellence, I passed through many hurdles, but today, it is a thing of joy.
Join me as I celebrate this milestone with joy and gratitude. I appreciate my family, friends, and benefactors who supported me, encouraged me, and believed in my dreams. Your prayers, advice, and support made this journey possible.
From Kishi to the University of Ibadan, from waiting years to finally wearing the nicely fitted academic gown, smiling to the gallery, and walking the convocation stage, this achievement is proof that patience, hard work, faith, and determination always pay off.
I am also open to opportunities from anyone who can help me grow, gain experience, or add value to my profile. To me, education is beyond the four walls of a classroom — it is about impact, exposure, and using knowledge to create a difference.
Congratulations HASSAN TAIWO ISHOLA ADESHOLA ADEWUYI OMO-OBA GBONBURUKU.
I remain Hassan Popoola
(The Kishi-Man ♥️)
