University of Lagos (UNILAG’s) overall best doctorate of Philosophy Ph.D student in Mathematics, Dr. Ige Aminat Olawunmi, has revealed how she experienced marital turbulence while pursuing her academic dreams.

Ige, who was cynosure of eyes during the 54th convocation ceremony held, on Thursday, disclosed how she suffered divorce and remarried during her academic voyage.

“On this Phd program, I got divorce, suffered depression, two armed robbery attacks, surgeries and several bouts of malaria. However, for every step backwards, I took three forwards recovery.”

“While the program was winding up, I started a mentorship community and the beautiful part of it all, while on the program I got married. This time around to the adorable man I think of. A man who supports my dreams and ambition,” she said.

The awardee narrated her ordeal, adding that she battled health challenges, but survived all during her pursuit of her Ph.D program, thanking her supervisors for their support.

“Well it was not all gloomy, while on the program. Amidst the trials with this nature of I no gree for failure, I started an NGO, and during these trying periods, my supervisor stood rightly by me,” she added.

However, she urged the federal government and state governments to support the education sector, calling for the proper welfare of university lecturers.

“It is not unpopular that university lecturers are poorly rewarded and students don’t want to like us when they grow up. I therefore appeal to president Bola Tinubu and governor of my state, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other state governors to look into the state of their academics and bring us renewed hope.

“The private sector is not left out. They are the highest beneficiary of the products of our institutions,” she added.

Earlier, the Vice chancellor, UNILAG professor Folasade Ogunsola congratulated the graduated students, urging to be good example to the society and solve problems

“As you move to the outside world, I want you to see the problems of our country Nigeria as opportunities calling for creative solutions rather than disasters from which to run to richer climes and greener pastures
I encourage you to dream big to be innovators. you can be anything you want!

“Finally, it is your responsibility to continue to exhibit the qualities of character and knowledge,” she added.