The Distance Learning Institute, University of Lagos, has lauded the effort of the 61-year-old Mr. Sobowale Babatunde as its overall best graduating student with a CGPA of 4.84.
Shobowale shattered stereotypes proving that age is just a number, as he emerged outstanding of the 2021/2022 academic session at the Distance Learning Institute (DLI), University of Lagos.
At 61, Mr. Sobowale has not only defied expectations but set a shining example for students of all ages with his remarkable academic achievement as the Institution marks her 54th convocation ceremony.
Hailing from Ogun State, Mr. Sobowale’s journey to academic excellence began in 2016 when he enrolled in the Department of Management Sciences (B.Sc. Business Administration programme) at the Institute.
The Director, Distance Learning Institute, Prof. Risikat Dauda joined other management staff to congratulate Mr. Sobowale on this feat, which according to her will continue to inspire generations of students to pursue their dreams with passion and commitment.
Dauda said that Sobowale throughout his studies, exhibited unwavering dedication and a thirst for knowledge, as he showcased his intellectual prowess that serves as a powerful message of hope and inspiration for individuals who may have doubted their abilities due to age or other perceived limitations.
“Those who know Mr. Sobowale beyond his academic achievements describe him as an unassuming, articulate, and outgoing individual with a gentle, serious, and hardworking nature. His dedication to his studies, coupled with his loving and disciplined personality, truly embodies the spirit of excellence that DLI strives to cultivate.
“DLI is the organ of the University of Lagos that operates and coordinates the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programmes as a veritable alternative to increasing access to higher education and life-long learning for desiring learners both in developed and developing countries, thereby providing unique higher education opportunities to all life-long learners.
These include the offering of flexible, accessible, quality, affordable, and cost-effective degree programmes; encouraging and supporting learners; monitoring retention; developing capacity-building processes; engaging in research and development of open distance practices; and contributing extensively to the national and international development of education for all,” she said
Mr. Sobowale’s academic achievements extend beyond his current degree. He holds qualifications from the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management, a Higher Diploma in Business Management Technology, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Management respectively.