The University of Ibadan (UI) Overall Best Graduating Student Basirat Rufai, with a CGPA of 6.9 on a 7.0 scale wins Full PhD Scholarship to Rutger University, Camden in the United States. Her extraordinary achievement in winning a full PhD scholarship in the United States is a testament to the incredible potential that exists within Africa’s education system. Her academic excellence has brought to the fore the immense talent pool that can be tapped into to create meaningful change and progress within the continent.
Rufai’s achievement is particularly noteworthy given the challenges that many African countries face in funding their education systems adequately. Despite these challenges, Rufai’s story demonstrates that when given the opportunity, African students can excel and compete on a global stage.
Although she “had low scores in two courses in my first two years” 100 and 200 level at the University and “that almost discouraged me. But, I kept on pushing”. According to Rufai in an interview with the Tribune Online Nigeria in 2021.
On how she was able to achieve Best Graduating Student she stated “I just made sure I did the right thing at the right time. I was determined and also consistent. During tests and exams, I go into hibernation mode. When it’s time to read, I read. When it’s time to rest or play, I do. I made sure I was always very prepared for any test or exam. I’m not much of a night reader, so I make use of my day judiciously. I’m also a fast writer, so I always note what every lecturer says in class. I try as much as possible not to miss out anything.
Rufai’s field of study, Center for Computational and Integrative Biology points towards the critical role that science and technology can play in driving Africa’s future growth and development. As the world becomes increasingly digitized and reliant on technology, Africa must harness these tools to leapfrog into a more prosperous future.
Rufai’s inspiring accomplishment is also a reminder of the need to invest in Africa’s young people, who are the continent’s greatest asset. As the African Development Bank President, Akinwumi Adesina recently highlighted “Africa is not as risky as you hear. It is a continent of opportunities, waiting to be tapped.” In a business forum held at the 7th Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation Ministerial Conference in Busan, Korea.
 Overall Best Graduating Student Basirat Rufai, wins Full PhD Scholarship to Rutger University, Camden in the United States. Her field of study, Center for Computational and Integrative Biology points towards the critical role that science and technology can play in driving Africa's future growth){kind=link}