University of Ibadan Graduate Turns 1.88 CGPA Setback into 2:1 Comeback Story
A graduate of the University of Ibadan (UI) has inspired many online after sharing how he rose from a Third Class standing in his first year to graduate with a Second Class Honours (Upper Division).
Idongesit Ime, who studied Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, described his academic journey as nothing short of a comeback story — one built on discipline, strategy, and resilience.
A rough start in 100 level
Ime revealed that his university journey began on a disappointing note. At the end of his first year (100 level), he had a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 1.88 on a 4.00 scale — placing him in the Third Class category.
Rather than allow the result to define him, he said it became a wake-up call.
According to him, that moment of academic shock was “the right and needed motivation” to reassess his study habits and refocus on his goals.
Gradual academic turnaround
By his second year, he began to see improvement. His CGPA rose from 1.88 to 2.29 — a modest but important step forward.
Determined to change his trajectory, Ime said he restructured his reading strategy, strengthened his focus, and became more intentional about understanding course material rather than studying only to pass examinations.
The breakthrough came in his third year (300 level). Out of 21 courses, he earned 17 A grades — a remarkable academic performance that boosted his CGPA to 2.81.
The dramatic improvement marked a turning point in his academic career.
Pressure in 400 level
However, the journey was not entirely smooth.
In his fourth year (400 level), academic pressure intensified. Ime admitted that anxiety began to creep in as he tried to maintain his upward momentum. That year, he earned five A grades and several B grades across 11 courses.
Though disappointed that he could not replicate his previous year’s 17-A performance, he chose gratitude over discouragement.
“Success isn’t a straight line,” he reflected, noting that setbacks are part of the process.
Final push in 500 level
By his final year (500 level), Ime said he approached his studies with greater calmness and maturity. While he aimed to match his earlier 17-A milestone, he secured 13 A grades out of 17 courses — enough to solidify his academic standing.
His consistency ultimately paid off.
When final results were released, he graduated with a Second Class Honours (Upper Division) degree.
Sharing the announcement on LinkedIn, he expressed gratitude for the strength to stay committed to his goal despite early struggles.
“To anyone staring at a result they aren’t proud of: dare to dream,” he wrote. “I did — and I worked for it.”
Looking ahead
Beyond celebrating his academic recovery, Ime also signalled his career ambitions. He revealed a strong interest in data analysis, particularly within the agribusiness supply chain sector.
He announced that he is open to collaborations and professional opportunities where he can apply both his technical skills and perseverance to drive growth in organisations.
A broader culture of academic excellence at UI
Ime’s achievement adds to a growing list of inspiring stories emerging from the University of Ibadan. Recently, another UI graduate, Oluwatunmise Awobajo, celebrated becoming the first in her family to earn a First Class degree in Law — a milestone she described as a long-standing personal goal.
Together, these stories highlight a broader narrative: academic journeys are rarely perfect, but determination and strategic effort can redefine outcomes.
For many students facing early academic setbacks, Ime’s experience serves as proof that a slow start does not determine the finish line.
