21 Year-Old Nigerian Student, Nana Skari graduates from University of Kent as the Most Outstanding Graduating Student in Engineering

It’s always wonderful to hear news of Nigerians doing great things at home and in the diaspora. That is why at BellaNaija.com, we are very proud of Nana Skari. A 21 year-old Nigerian recently graduated from the University of Kent, UK with a First Class degree and an outstanding award in Engineering.

At her graduation, Nana recieved an award as the most outstanding graduating student on an IET accredited course in the University. IET (Institute of Engineering and Technology) is a body that accredits all Engineering, Computing, Multimedia, and IT undergraduate and postgraduate courses in the UK.

Her field of study was Computer Systems Engineering (BEng).

In an exclusive chat with BN after her graduation, Nana who was born in Borno state recalled growing up in Nigeria and attending Primary and Secondary schools in Kaduna.

“I attended Tender Care in Kaduna where I did my Kindergarten, Nursery and Primary. Then I went to Danbo Int’l College in Kaduna as well for secondary education. After that I attended David Game College London for my A-levels; then University of Kent where I just graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Computer Systems Engineering.“

She intially wanted to study paediatric neurosurgery “but the years were just too much“. So she decided to study something she enjoys doing. “I love maths. It’s the best thing in the world. So I chose to study engineering.“

Speaking on her social life and relationship with her course mates at the University, Nana said many people underestimated her abilities because of her playful side. ”I’m not your typical geek. I’m often late for lectures, I sit at the back of the class, and I never answer questions asked in class voluntarily unless it’s directed at me. Many people underestimate my abilities because of my playful side. But God has blessed me to be a focused, optimistic, autonomous, and enthusiastic person. I’m the most serious person when it’s time to work and I play hard when it’s time to play. If I want something, I work hard to get it. Settling for less is not even an option.“

Looking ahead, she is preparing to start an MSc in International Oil and Gas Management. “I don’t want to limit myself to the engineering field. I want to broaden my horizon,” she says about her preferred course.

Her dream is to make a fortune, build an empire, and impact as many people’s lives as possible, in any positive way she can.

Although Nana has been in the UK for five years now, she says she speaks Hausa fluently and comes back to Abuja every now and then. She would love to return back upon completion of her Masters.

“I believe Nigeria is a blessed nation. We are going through a lot at the moment but I believe in redemption. I do hope our parents and grandparents can rest, and give we the future leaders a chance to restore hope to our nation. Yes I’ll move back home at the completion of my masters. Get married, gain some work experience, learn how to apply my knowledge to the real world, and continue my journey to being the Oprah Winfrey of my generation.“

Her first class degree and most outstanding student award means a whole lot to her, she says, and makes her more motivated to further her studies. “And guys find it attractive so it’s cool.” she adds with a smile.

Well done Nana!

 

Tags: Great Nigerian in the Diaspora, Nana Skari, UK, University of Kent

Filed under: Inspired!, News & Features