In an inspiring story of resilience and teamwork, Mr. Olawale Olulaja and his wife, Blessing Chigozie Olulaja, have both earned university degrees from the University of Lagos (UNILAG) — all while raising their three children and navigating years of academic disruption.
The couple were among the graduands at UNILAG’s recent convocation ceremony, where Mr. Olulaja received a degree in Business Administration and Mrs. Olulaja graduated from the Department of Accountancy through the university’s Distance Learning Institute.
In a conversation with journalists, Olawale explained that although he initially enrolled in the programme before his wife, he was unable to complete it earlier due to outstanding courses. “I enrolled before her. I had some references which I came to complete, that is why we are graduating at the same time,” he said, reflecting on the unique timing of their achievements.
He added that mutual understanding played a key role in their journey: “We understand ourselves. I understand her when it is time for studying… and I did not need to get annoyed.” Olawale noted the couple sometimes struggled to balance family duties with academic requirements, including late meals and childcare, but they persevered.
His wife, Blessing, said her own academic journey began in 2018 and extended over seven years due to disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic and extended university strikes. “I started mine, and it was along the line that I knew, and I urged him to complete the programme. That was what we both did last year. It was not easy with the children,” she shared.
Blessing also described the challenge of attending classes and writing exams shortly after childbirth as one of the toughest parts of their academic path, underscoring the couple’s dedication to their goals.
Their story has captured the admiration of many on social media and beyond, as a testament to the power of persistence, teamwork, and family support in the face of life’s demands.
