I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to a dear friend who has recently been conferred with a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree by the Senate of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in Zaria.
His journey to this remarkable achievement is both captivating and motivational, embodying a narrative of resilience, determination, and unwavering focus. It involved overcoming numerous challenges to realize his aspirations.
Below, I share his inspiring story, as recounted by him, with the hope of encouraging anyone facing similar circumstances to persevere until they reach their own promised destination:
Dr. Is'haq Idris Guiɓi
"I commenced my Ph.D journey in the 2008/2009 academic session at one of the Departments within the Faculty of Arts at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. Over the course of my studies from 2008/2009 to 2016/2017, I presented three different proposals during pre-data seminars in the same department where I had completed my undergraduate degree in 1991 and my Master's degree in 2006. Unfortunately, all three proposals were unsuccessful according to the committees responsible for evaluation. Recognizing the diminishing prospects for my academic future in that environment, I sought admission to Nasarawa State University, Keffi, and Umaru Musa Ƴar'Adua University, Katsina.
"During the admission interview at Nasarawa State University, I was informed that there were no qualified supervisors available for my research. At Umaru Musa Ƴar'Adua University, there was a delay in obtaining my transcript, causing me to miss the admission opportunity. Following the advice of a friend, I decided to apply for a Ph.D in Language Arts with a focus on Hausa, as I met the requirements, including a Postgraduate Diploma in Education from Federal University Minna.
"I applied for the 2018/2019 academic session and was granted admission. Consequently, I abandoned my initial Ph.D program from 2008/2009 and began anew in 2018/2019. On February 6, 2024, I successfully defended my thesis for my second Ph.D, which was supported by funding from Tetfund. The initial thesis that had not been accepted was later compiled into a book, for which Tetfund also financed the publication of 1,000 copies. I generously donated several copies to the department that had previously rejected my thesis, and in return, they provided a positive recommendation for the book.
"'Naci damben kuturu kuma kowa ya ci zomo ya ci gudu.'
"I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone, particularly Professors Sadiq Mohammed and Ramlat Jibir-Daura, as well as all staff members and students of the Faculty of Arts and Social Science Education, for their unwavering support in my academic journey.
"Thank you once again."
Tags
Tidbits