Chibok girl, Mary Katambi, has graduated from the American University of Nigeria (AUN) with a 2.1 degree in accounting.
“I could not graduate with first-class honours, but I am delighted to say my determination, consistency and hard work has paid off. I have graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting (2’1),” Katambi writes in a post on her Linkedin page.
Hers is an amazing story of conquering adversity and coming out triumphant, the story of strength, resilience and hope for me and Chibok, is how she captures it.
Her story, as she tells it, began seven years ago when she came to AUN as one among the first set of Chibok Girls after being kidnapped by Boko Haram in 2014
“When I came to AUN, I did not know how to speak English nor read well.
AUN created a program called ‘New Foundation School’ for the Chibok Girls and the purpose was to prepare us for the future. It was tough, rough and challenging to me because coming from a poor background to receive that level of education, seemed impossible. I stayed in the program from September 2014 and then took my JAMB, WAEC and NECO in 2016,” Katambi writes on her Linkedin page.
She says her dream was to study to become a pilot but God had a different plan for her as she enrolled in the AUN Fall 2016, where she studied accounting.
“It came with challenges and difficulties, sleepless nights because I had to do extra study for me to improve my English and other things.
My determination didn’t allow me to give up on my study, despite the challenges and difficulties,” she adds.
Karambi, who travelled to Italy for the 2020 spring semester, for study abroad to explore socially and academically, even though COVID-19 shortened the trip, says that life always starts somewhere. “Thus, don’t be unashamed of your story or your current condition. Yet, life might seem hard or meaningless due to your current situation but do not give up. I can tell you that whatever you set your mind on, you can achieve. Although, you might fail, but failure is the route to success”.
Wake up, she says, believe in yourself, have determination, be consistent with the process, work hard and you will succeed.
“I take this opportunity to thank God for his unconditional love, protection, provision, given ability and strength for me to achieve my degree.
“For my beautiful parents, you two are priceless blessings in my life. I would not make it without your inspiration and love. I really appreciate and I will forever remain grateful for all your guidance.
“I am using this medium to express my profound gratitude to my sponsors’ kindness and generous donations and funding for education since 2014 till 10th of July, 2021. “Thank you all for making my dream into reality. I never imagine myself getting a degree. However, because of your magnanimity, support and kindness, I have learned and received a quality education. I don’t know how to show my gratitude but from the depth of my heart, I am really grateful for everything I received. I pray God continues to grant his love, mercy and protection to you all. Once again, I am greatly thankful for your generosity, and support in my journey.
“To my best friend, AUN, JCU friends, I want to say a big thank you to you all for the time we spent together. #graduation2021# AUN”.
