Ms. Maryam Umar, a student at Gombe State University, is set to graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics after overcoming significant educational and financial hurdles. Her journey to university education was made possible by the intervention of the Academic Staff Union of the University (ASUU). Umar's story is one of resilience and determination, as she recounts the challenges she faced in pursuing her academic goals.
Umar began her primary education at the age of 11 at Hammadaji Primary School in Gombe metropolis. However, she could not immediately proceed to secondary school due to various challenges. She later attended Government Day Secondary School, Nasarawo, Gombe, where she obtained a senior school certificate. Despite her efforts, many people doubted her ability to attend university due to her physical and financial limitations.
Undeterred, Umar sat for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and National Examinations Council (NECO) examinations, passing both. However, she could not proceed to university due to lack of sponsorship. Her situation gained national attention, and ASUU subsequently offered her a scholarship. The union verified her educational credentials and provided her with the necessary support to pursue her university education.
As a limb difference student, Umar faced unique challenges in her academic pursuits. She writes with her toes during lectures, tests, and examinations, which often proved to be a major obstacle. During her first test, she couldn't finish within the allocated time and reported the matter to ASUU. The union chairman wrote to her Head of Department, requesting additional time for her during tests and examinations, which was granted.
Umar commended her lecturers for their support and understanding throughout her studies. When a journalist inquired about her academic performance, the records showed that she was more punctual than most able-bodied students. Umar expressed joy over successfully completing her degree program without any academic failures. She credits her success to her hard work and the support she received from ASUU and her lecturers.
Umar's story serves as an inspiration to people living with disabilities. She urges them not to allow their conditions to distract them from pursuing their dreams and to shun street begging. Umar's own experience with begging on the street did not deter her from achieving her goals. She is now on the verge of graduating and hopes to become a role model for others in similar situations.
As Umar prepares to graduate, she gives thanks for the support she received from ASUU and her lecturers. Her story highlights the importance of inclusive education and the role that organizations like ASUU can play in enabling students with disabilities to achieve their full potential. Umar's achievement is a testament to the power of determination and the impact that supportive institutions can have on students' lives.
Key points
- ASUU sponsored Maryam Umar's university education, enabling her to overcome physical and financial challenges and earn a degree in Economics.
- Umar, a limb difference student, faced unique challenges in her academic pursuits but successfully completed her degree program without any academic failures.
- Umar's story serves as an inspiration to people living with disabilities, urging them not to allow their conditions to distract them from pursuing their dreams.
