By EHIGIMETOR IGBAUGBA

Offiong Edet, the best graduating student in the University of Calabar (UniCal) 38th convocation ceremony says he had no personal accommodation for 13 months.

Edet, a graduate of Business Education, made the disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the sideline of the convocation ceremony in Calabar on Friday.

He stated that during the period, he either slept in classrooms or stayed with friends who had accommodation.

“I had no money to secure personal accommodation because of my poor background.

“I was able to achieve academic success because I was determined and focused during this journey.

“Although I had no shelter, I maintained perfect academic commitment, I attended classes, and completed all assignments and tests,” he said.

Edet said that academic pursuit became easier when a student showed focus and determination.

He said that discipline and humility reduced academic stress, saying,” students who remain focused and committed are less likely to encounter difficulties during their studies”

“I approached my academic tasks with a huge sense of discipline, I saw school and learning as my master, I saw myself as the servant,” he said.

Edet identified late release of results, poor moral supervision, and lack of dedication by students as major challenges in the academic system.

“The authorities should be stricter in enforcing discipline. Students should be more determined, focused, and dedicated to achieving their academic goals,” he said.

NAN reports that UniCal graduated a total of 10,820 students at the ceremony, out of which 52 graduated with first-class honors.

A report released by the university further showed that 2,390 had second-class upper, 5,819 had second-class lower, 666 graduated with third-class, while 246 had pass degrees. (NAN)