UNILAG couple graduate together after balancing marriage, parenthood and years of academic disruption at the University of Lagos

Mr Olawale Olulaja and his wife, Blessing Chigozie, have graduated together from the University of Lagos after completing their degree programmes through the institution’s Distance Learning Institute, while raising three children and navigating years of academic disruption.

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The couple were among the graduands at the university’s recently concluded convocation ceremony for the 2024 and 2025 academic session, marking a rare milestone achieved through persistence and mutual support.

Mr Olulaja earned a degree in Business Administration, while Mrs Chigozie graduated from the Department of Accountancy. Both programmes were completed through the Distance Learning Institute, which allows working adults and parents to pursue higher education alongside family and professional commitments.

Speaking with The PUNCH, Mr Olulaja explained that although he enrolled earlier than his wife, unresolved academic requirements delayed his graduation.

He said he returned to complete his outstanding courses when his wife was approaching the end of her programme, resulting in their joint graduation.

The father of three described mutual understanding as the cornerstone of their success, noting that balancing academic work with family responsibilities required patience and sacrifice from both partners.

Mrs Chigozie said she began her academic journey in 2018 and only later discovered that her husband had not completed his earlier enrolment. She encouraged him to return to school, a decision that ultimately brought them to the convocation stage together.

She said their studies coincided with major life events, including the birth of their three children, the COVID-19 pandemic and prolonged industrial actions that extended the duration of the programme.

One of the most demanding moments, she recalled, was attending lectures and examinations shortly after childbirth, including a residential academic session she attended with her infant due to the absence of childcare support.

Despite the physical strain and emotional pressure, Mrs Chigozie said she was determined not to prolong the programme further and endured the challenges to complete her studies.

Reflecting on the experience, she urged Nigerians, particularly women, not to postpone education while waiting for perfect conditions, describing determination as a powerful tool against life’s obstacles.

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The couple described their achievement as a triumph of resilience, faith and partnership, adding that their journey reinforced the belief that education remains attainable despite the demands of marriage, parenthood and unforeseen setbacks.