A brilliant Nigerian lady named Kareemat Abdurrahman has obtained a first-class degree in Industrial Chemistry from the University of Lagos, Nigeria. Her outstanding performance earned her the best graduating student in her class.
However, she faced some challenges and delays during her academic journey. What was supposed to be a five-year journey stretched into seven due to academic union strikes and the global COVID-19 pandemic. But she stayed committed, refusing to let the delays derail her purpose.
Sharing her story on LinkedIn, she expressed gratitude and joy for being able to cross the finish line with excellence. She described her achievement as as surreal and deeply meaningful.
Looking back, Kareemat acknowledged how the journey shaped her in ways she never imagined. Beyond the lecture halls, she embraced growth through different experiences—from student leadership roles to industry-based internships.
These moments opened her eyes to the possibilities in research and innovation. Kareemat revealed that such an experience inspired her to produce glucose syrup from cassava.
For her final-year thesis, she tackled the issue of plastic waste by developing biodegradable plastic films from sawdust, showing a clear drive to create real-world solutions through science.
But Kareemat’s academic journey did not just transform her intellectually—it also helped her discover a passion for data.
Over time, she became data-driven, learning to harness the power of analytics to drive change. This newfound passion now fuels her ambition to promote a data-informed culture in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.
She hopes to one day contribute meaningfully to the industry, blending artificial intelligence with local production to solve pressing challenges.
Kareemat stated that this win is not hers alone. It belongs to her parents, siblings, friends, and coursemates—everyone who stood by her, cheered her on, and offered unwavering support during the difficult times.
She thanked her parents, who promised to support her fully through school, and kept that promise at every step.
Kareemat also expressed appreciation to her project supervisor, whom she described as the kind of lecturer every student hopes to have—always patient, always present, and always ready to help.
According to her, working under his guidance was one of the most fulfilling parts of her journey.
As she looks ahead, Kareemat is filled with hope and excitement. Her eyes are set on opportunities where she can blend chemistry, manufacturing, and technology to drive impactful solutions for her community and beyond.
