Tade Mustapha, a 28-year-old Nigerian, emerged as the best graduate of the Department of Information Systems, University of Fort Hare, South Africa with Cum Laude (first class) in the 2014/2015 academic session.
In this interview with Tunde Ajaja, she talks about her experience in the foreign institution.
Would you mind sharing with us why you preferred to have your higher education in South Africa?
The major reason for my decision was the difficulty I encountered while trying to secure admission into Nigerian universities. Besides, I wanted to learn in a society where academic programme run seamlessly; without disruption, having already had a robust education at NIIT after my high school education. I travelled in 2011 after obtaining my diploma at NIIT. I want to build a career in the Information Technology field, so obtaining a degree in that field was a good place to start.
How easy was it securing an admission into a university in SA?
It is usually relatively easier compared to trying to secure admission into Nigerian universities. I know this because I tried Nigerian universities before I travelled. There, the basic requirement is a school leaving certificate. However, they also require a post-secondary qualification such as ‘A’ levels. These results need to be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority. And then of course, there are non-academic requirements for foreign students such as visa requirements and medical insurance.
What are the major differences between the education systems in Nigeria and South Africa?
Since I did not attend a Nigerian university, my thoughts about Nigerian universities are not through first-hand experiences. However, a major difference I noticed is the relevance of the curriculum. Universities in South Africa regularly update their curriculum in line with changing industry standards. Another difference is that lecturers there are not bothered about their views being challenged by students. In fact, it is welcome. Students are encouraged to question lecturers’ views and opinions rather than just accepting them ‘because the lecturer said so.’ Also, students-to-lecturer ratio is small which makes learning effective and accessibility of lecturers is a factor because lecturers have open-door policy.
Did you face any challenge(s) there?
I faced mainly financial challenges, as I had to support myself by taking up part-time jobs within and outside the university. The language barrier was another challenge because I couldn’t speak Xhosa so I was ‘forced’ to learn. However, learning an additional language became an advantage for me in the long run.
Were there other Nigerians in your class?
No, I was the only one, but there were two other international students from Zimbabwe. However, I had a cordial relationship with other students; I made good friends and even though I am back in Nigeria, I still keep in touch with most of them. So, it was a nice experience altogether.
Was there a time you received special commendation as a Nigerian/foreign student?
Yes, as a matter of fact, I received numerous awards. In my first year, I was recognised as the Best Economics Student by the Economic Research Southern Africa, for exceptional academic performance in Business Management and as top Information Systems 1 student. In my second year, I was recognised as top Information Systems II student, an award sponsored by BSG. I was the top Information Systems student for three consecutive years. My final year group project was selected as the best 2014 Systems Development project. I also received awards for Information Systems Honours Top student and my research was awarded Best Honours research in 2015. In addition, I received the Vice Chancellor’s Merit Award for Excellence in the Faculty of Management and Commerce.
What was the grading system like?
Generally, course grades are based on percentages not GPA system as it is in Nigeria. A student can either graduate with a cum laude (first class) or with a pass. Any student with a cumulative average of 75 per cent and above has cum laude. I had 86 per cent, and that was the best in my class.
Do you think it is easier to pass in universities abroad than in Nigeria, maybe because of the flexibility and some other factors?
What I can say is that the learning conditions are more favourable to studying. I have friends in our universities here. For example, classes are not over populated and lecturers are more accessible. But, more importantly, it depends ultimately on the individual. A student needs to put in the work to pass.
How many of you had first class in your class?
I was the only one, both in my undergraduate and my Honours class (2014 and 2015 respectively). In my first year, I did 12 modules/courses and I had distinctions in 11 out of the 12, so I started well and I sustained the efforts.
What extra effort did you put in?
It was not easy having a first class, I had to work hard and I had a support system. Just like in my previous schools, I have always worked hard and I used to have above-average results. I spent less time studying while I focused on lecture attendance. I hardly missed lectures and this was because I found that understanding a concept is more important and I was able to ask questions during lectures. I strove for understanding, rather than memorising. When I understand a concept, I can apply it to scenarios and case studies. I particularly love the use of examples, especially with abstract concepts and I like to ask questions. When I struggled with certain topics or courses, I was not ashamed to seek for help. I liked to stand out from the crowd and I realised that to do this, I needed to do and go beyond what others did. I didn’t have to deny myself of sleep, and usually I read for not more than two hours at a time. I preferred taking short breaks rather than studying for long at a stretch. I also didn’t like studying in very quiet places, so I wasn’t the type to read in the library because I found it too quiet, unless when I needed resources that were only available there.
What kind of support system helped you?
My parents and my aunt always encouraged me; by believing in me and supporting me. I also received support from my department and the university. I pray God to keep my parents and grant them longevity in good health for their strides and sacrifice in raising my sisters and me. They believe so much in education and were willing to give their all.
Were there times you missed home and even Nigerian dishes?
Definitely, there were times I missed my family, friends and the local food here, especially suya in particular.
Did you consider staying back in South Africa to work?
Yes, definitely I did consider remaining in South Africa to work. As a matter of fact, I had two job offers after I completed my studies but I couldn’t take them because I couldn’t get work permit. I only had study permit, I tried to get but there wasn’t enough time to push it through.
Do you plan to go back?
I haven’t decided yet. It depends on opportunities available here or any other place.
Could you tell us about the course, Information Systems?
In the simplest terms, Information Systems is essentially about how businesses can make the best use of technology to provide the information needed to achieve their goals. It provides an understanding of how organisations can make use of technology to function effectively and efficiently.
Were you involved in other school activities?
Yes I was. I was a supplemental Instruction leader in my second and third year; I was a Student Assistant at the Teaching and Learning Centre. During my Honours year, I was a Student Mentor in the Information Systems Department as well as the Microsoft Student Partner for the University.
Is there any such part of their curriculum that you think Nigeria should adopt to have an improved education system?
I think Nigerian universities should regularly review and update their curriculum and this should be informed primarily by industry requirements, preferably with inputs from industry leaders, since, ultimately, students will be seeking employment in these industries. Also, soft skills such as effective communication, speaking, and presentation skills should be integrated into the curriculum while there should be provision and use of modern equipment and resources.
As the best student in your class and being a female, how did you manage gestures from male colleagues?
That wasn’t really an issue for me because such attention was usually out of respect. Most of the attention I got was laced with admiration and respect. Though, my friends usually referred to me as being too serious.
What is your ideal company like?
I would like to work in a progressive organisation that inspires and encourages growth, preferably an IT or consulting company that is known for excellence. My ideal company is one that offers flexibility, work-life balance and a culture of inclusiveness.
In your view, what should students do if they must succeed?
First, they need to learn not to make excuses based on their situations; rather, they should work towards achieving their goals. I would also encourage students not to settle for less. They should aspire to greater heights and dare to dream big.
What was your most memorable moment in school?
That was when I was informed that I had been nominated for the Vice Chancellor’s Merit Award, and I won’t forget when I received the excellence award.
