For close to three years, I toiled day and night to document the events in the lives of a cross section university undergraduates with a view to identify the practices and activities that leads to a successful university career.
The passion with which I pursued this project zealously was born of my discovery that most anti-success vices found amongst students are a result of peer influence, thus channeling this influence positively can rid the society of the identified vices and help undergraduates have a fulfilling university career, ready to contribute their developmental quota to the society upon graduation.
The product of my toil is “STUDENTS’ SURVIVAL KIT” a book written in simple English and with the twin aims of providing guidance for freshly admitted undergraduates and a worthy companion for all undergraduates throughout their stay in the university.
Below is a synopsis of the book
1. The University in Nigeria
The book opens with a brief but concise description of the evolution of the University system of tertiary education in Nigeria.
2. University administration
A detailed description of officers and processes that ensures the smooth running of the university
3. Important terms
There are several jargons that stares a new comer in the face upon arrival in the university and in this chapter I attempt an explanation of all of such terms and by so doing introduce the typical reader to the university. The chapter closes with a tale of my confusion with some of these terms when I arrived at the university newly.
4. Personal study habits
In this chapter I introduce and describe my adaptation of the traditional SQ3R method of studying favored by educators and educational psychologists the world over.
The chapter is divided into 3 Units thus:
Unit 1: Guidelines to effective personal study
Unit 2: The traditional SQ3R studying method
Unit 3: Taking notes from a text book.
5. Tips for studying in groups
Having noted that it is common for students to study and undertake several academic activities in groups, I have in this chapter shared my thoughts and experiences on what makes such endeavors a success. The chapter is broken into two sizable chunks thus:
Unit 1: general tit bits
Unit 2: factors that contribute to a good study group.
6. Location of study
In this chapter I dwell on factors that affect the location of one’s study such that studying there can be a delightful and exciting experience. I also highlighted the need to use the Library and emphasized the role of proper conduct in using the library and library resources.
This chapter is divided into two units thus:
Unit 1: the essentials
Unit 2: using the library.
7. Time management and Study
Here I explained the fundamental fact that time is a limited resource that must be put into meaningful use for any one to achieve success in any endeavor.
I described my experience at arriving at time schedules each semester to allow for a meaningful use of my time.
I also expressed the need to prioritize and suggested tips I have found useful in arriving at an effective personal time plan.
8. Taking Examinations
Here I suggested tips for preparing for and passing examination while examining the several erroneous approaches to examination popular amongst students with a view to discourage those practices.
9. Calculating your G.P.A. and C.G.P.A
Here I disclosed the rudiments of calculating GPA and the CGPA and the relation of these measuring tools to the final grade of degree obtainable in the university, so students can monitor their academic standing as they progress in their study. In the event that errors are discovered between what is calculated by a student and what is published by the authorities, the necessary steps to take in ensuring the errors are corrected are described.
10. Managing your finances
This chapter exposes the typical freshman to some of the financial commitments and traps on the university campus viz:
Unit 1: meeting living costs
Unit 2: the habit saving
Unit 3: raising extra cash
11. Managing your health
How do I handle ailments?
Where do I go to get medical attention?
What do I do to prevent me from taking ill?
I attempted to answer these and many other questions relating to an undergraduates health issues.
I close the chapter with a story from my early days in the university that chronicles the need to report sickness to the right authorities.
12. Socials
Described the social setting of the university and I identified the need for moderation.
This chapter is broken into sizable units thus:
Unit 1: the SUG and other associations
Unit 2: clubs and partying
Unit 3: on dressing well
13. Cultism
The ugly evil on campus is stripped and the activities and methods of its’ perpetrators exposed so as to help “freshers” avoid these nefarious groups.
14. The final word
A series of general advice for the freshman and stalite alike aimed at expressing the overall aim of the book.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Friday, November 24, 2006
She has a heart of gold!
She will pass for any ordinary student, Oluwatimilehin (Timi) Onafeso,21 from a family of several children born and raised in the city of Ijebu-ode in the heart of Ijebu land, Ogun State crossed my path in the month of May this year when she paraded 20 orphaned children she has devoted the last 2 years to cater for. The event was a leadership training programme organized by the Theophilus Cornerstone led NSSIE-Nigerian Society of Student Investors and Entreprenuer- at the main auditorium Olabisi Onabanjo University mini campus.
I caught up with her recently (10/10/2006) in her room on campus and here are excerpts from a moving and, very emotional interview:
Me: where are the kids?
Timi: the kids are refugees who had lost their parents in the Liberian war. They are presently putting up with the camp pastor at the Oru refugee camp. The camp pastor provides them shelter while I clothe and feed them as well as provide for their schooling.
Me: what do you do?
Timi: am an undergraduate in the Dept. of Botany, Faculty of science Olabisi Onabanjo University. Am in 400level and working on my final year project and seminars as well as my final exams.
Me: So how do fund all of these? I mean clothes, food and stationery…
Timi: Oh my pocket money and gifts from friends
Me: For how long have you done this?
Timi: Since 200level, that is sometimes in 2004
Me: So how large is your pocket money?
Timi: (smiles)…N3, 000
Me: Ah?
Timi: Yeah my parents aint millonaires and they in fact had to increase it (pocket money) to that amount when they got wind of my vision.
Though it was not easy at first mummy complained bitterly but became supportive along the line
Me: What do your parents do?
Timi: My father, retired from the civil service a couple of years back…
Me: And now lives on pension?
Timi:…no, not exactly, he has a small building materials concern and mummy is a small scale poultry and fish farmer.
Me: So how do you live on N3,000 monthly?
NOTE: N3,000 is approximately $24
Timi: I spend all the money less my tithe on the children.
I live close to school so I trek to class daily, I share food stuffs with my roommate and I keep a low profile and am not extremely fashion conscious so I don’t really spend money on clothes and other fashion trappings.
I spend my pocket money and gifts from my few friends who know am doing this to get food stuffs(tubers of yam, garri-local grain, beans, rice), stationeries ( exercise books, pencils and biros) and clothes for the children though most times I get old clothes from people…
Me: So what does your typical day look like?
Timi: I attend classes between 8:00am and 1:00pm daily, rest between 1:00pm and 3:00pm or work on school assignments within that time frame then at about 4:00pm I go to the camp and spend time with the children till say 7:00pm.
Me: You see the kids daily?
Timi: Yeah…everyday.
I really want them to feel loved and cared for, so I hang out with them helping the with home work, teach them to do their laundry, cook their meals with them and a few other things…you know korede everything their parents would have done for them were they alive
Me: Timi what gives you the push?
Timi: (Smiles) I just cant stand seeing children suffer especially when it can be helped.
So am helping those I can and hope to do more in the future… I will also suggest other people do stuffs like this for kids.
Me: So after school what next?
Timi: I have volunteered to work with a catholic mission working to improve the living condition of children in a particular village on the outskirts of Ijebu-ode in Ogun state
Me: What’s the pay like?
Timi: I volunteered so I don’t expect any pay but will accept anything offered by the mission to cover basic costs like transport, accommodation…
Me: Do you plan having a facility of your own…?
Timi: Later! Not now… I don’t have the means to support such, besides I will like to learn all I can about social services like this, settle down and raise a family before commitiing TOTALLY to the cause so for now its’ going to be just what I do.
Me: Have you been on any Show…TV, radio, campus…to show the world what you are doing?
Timi: That is not the purpose. It is all about making the children happy and not about…. (rave reviews)…though I had to be part of Cornerstone’s programme earlier this year but it had never been for the show. It is all about… (service).
Me: Timi, you are doing this generation proud and I will spread the news of your work and service to humanity.
Timi: Thank you korede. Hope to see more of you
Me: Thank you for your time.
With meagre resources Timi has catered for these children for the past two years. She has proved to us all that one can find fulfillment in SERVICE.
In my opinion she should be encouraged, she can be reached on her mobile phone: +234 805 228 8018.
N.B I regret all errors in earlier post.
I caught up with her recently (10/10/2006) in her room on campus and here are excerpts from a moving and, very emotional interview:
Me: where are the kids?
Timi: the kids are refugees who had lost their parents in the Liberian war. They are presently putting up with the camp pastor at the Oru refugee camp. The camp pastor provides them shelter while I clothe and feed them as well as provide for their schooling.
Me: what do you do?
Timi: am an undergraduate in the Dept. of Botany, Faculty of science Olabisi Onabanjo University. Am in 400level and working on my final year project and seminars as well as my final exams.
Me: So how do fund all of these? I mean clothes, food and stationery…
Timi: Oh my pocket money and gifts from friends
Me: For how long have you done this?
Timi: Since 200level, that is sometimes in 2004
Me: So how large is your pocket money?
Timi: (smiles)…N3, 000
Me: Ah?
Timi: Yeah my parents aint millonaires and they in fact had to increase it (pocket money) to that amount when they got wind of my vision.
Though it was not easy at first mummy complained bitterly but became supportive along the line
Me: What do your parents do?
Timi: My father, retired from the civil service a couple of years back…
Me: And now lives on pension?
Timi:…no, not exactly, he has a small building materials concern and mummy is a small scale poultry and fish farmer.
Me: So how do you live on N3,000 monthly?
NOTE: N3,000 is approximately $24
Timi: I spend all the money less my tithe on the children.
I live close to school so I trek to class daily, I share food stuffs with my roommate and I keep a low profile and am not extremely fashion conscious so I don’t really spend money on clothes and other fashion trappings.
I spend my pocket money and gifts from my few friends who know am doing this to get food stuffs(tubers of yam, garri-local grain, beans, rice), stationeries ( exercise books, pencils and biros) and clothes for the children though most times I get old clothes from people…
Me: So what does your typical day look like?
Timi: I attend classes between 8:00am and 1:00pm daily, rest between 1:00pm and 3:00pm or work on school assignments within that time frame then at about 4:00pm I go to the camp and spend time with the children till say 7:00pm.
Me: You see the kids daily?
Timi: Yeah…everyday.
I really want them to feel loved and cared for, so I hang out with them helping the with home work, teach them to do their laundry, cook their meals with them and a few other things…you know korede everything their parents would have done for them were they alive
Me: Timi what gives you the push?
Timi: (Smiles) I just cant stand seeing children suffer especially when it can be helped.
So am helping those I can and hope to do more in the future… I will also suggest other people do stuffs like this for kids.
Me: So after school what next?
Timi: I have volunteered to work with a catholic mission working to improve the living condition of children in a particular village on the outskirts of Ijebu-ode in Ogun state
Me: What’s the pay like?
Timi: I volunteered so I don’t expect any pay but will accept anything offered by the mission to cover basic costs like transport, accommodation…
Me: Do you plan having a facility of your own…?
Timi: Later! Not now… I don’t have the means to support such, besides I will like to learn all I can about social services like this, settle down and raise a family before commitiing TOTALLY to the cause so for now its’ going to be just what I do.
Me: Have you been on any Show…TV, radio, campus…to show the world what you are doing?
Timi: That is not the purpose. It is all about making the children happy and not about…. (rave reviews)…though I had to be part of Cornerstone’s programme earlier this year but it had never been for the show. It is all about… (service).
Me: Timi, you are doing this generation proud and I will spread the news of your work and service to humanity.
Timi: Thank you korede. Hope to see more of you
Me: Thank you for your time.
With meagre resources Timi has catered for these children for the past two years. She has proved to us all that one can find fulfillment in SERVICE.
In my opinion she should be encouraged, she can be reached on her mobile phone: +234 805 228 8018.
N.B I regret all errors in earlier post.
…finally!
Or how else do I tag this blog?
Maybe not exactly finally!
Because this, really is just transiting from one level of existence to another-or is it from one stage of life to another-and really there may not be any note of finality.
But come to think of it, when one’s path is constantly troubled and each time one attempts progress, one obstacle or the other evolves in the path (or so it seems) that causes time dilation, the END becomes elusive and the MEANS becomes uncomfortable.
Ok enough all this philosophical jabbering!
A few days back, precisely 17th Oct. 2006, I was invited to the Head of Department’s office (as an undergraduate, Olabisi Onabanjo University Ago-Iwoye Ogun State, Nigeria, reading Physics) to fill the NYSC Mobilization form. NYSC-is short for National Youth Service Corps-a compulsory and not ‘voluntary’ one year service to the fatherland which all freshly graduated (from all tertiary institutions) under the age of 30 are required to undertake else …ok! I will do a blog on the NYSC, later on.
Yeah filing the form was emotional!
Finally after 6 instead of 41/2 years, I am graduating - 9 months pre-degree + 31/2 years full time study.
My mind reeled to my 1st time at this University having earlier applied to study Chemical Engineering at a neighbouring University. I was finally accepted into the pre- degree program of the OOU to study Geology. That was 2001- a year of self-discovery-at least partial.
That year, I discovered my innate skills, interests and capabilities and finishing one of the best 100 students of 2700 or thereabout and considering the events prior to my admission and the 1st few days of school, that was a feat!?*
I opted to study Physics with the believe that there lies the explanation for the existence of life and possibly the hereafter but was I shocked?
Yeah shocked with the stark abstractness of modern Physics-Quantum mechanics-while still contending with the reality of Newtonian mechanics.
In retrospect! I honestly, may not have found fulfillment anywhere else, the challenges here though nerve wrecking has contributed in making a strong and resolute person of me.
Though it is clear am not making a 1st class (as it is a battle between a 2nd upper and a 2nd lower) I hope it shall be a upper. I wont be shocked with whatever the reality eventually begets as I have over the years done the SWOT analysis and have my mind prepared for the worst, while confidently working and hoping for the best.
While I’m not the extremely bookish person, I have my fair share of “exceptionality”.
While on campus I won several laurels and served the community. Yeah-(remind me to put this in my CV) I got involved with the Directorate of students affairs and was invited thrice (only honoured two) to deliver orientation lectures to freshly admitted undergraduates. (These were great moments when I attempted to put into force my believe in ‘peer partnership’ and positive peer pressure to work)
The laurels included:
2002: 1st place essay competition: National Association of Science Students, OOU Chapter, and was presented the award by the deputy speaker of the Ogun state House of Assembly (I wrote on the immerse benefits of Science & Technology to our collective existence).
2003- Outstanding Student of the Year, Faculty of Science OOU (NASS)
2004-Exemplary studentship (OOU Governing Council, 2004 Convocation Awards)
I had challenges- had to write Chemistry 102 twice, which translated to 4 units carry over and I scored a number of Ds and Es where I believe I should have done better considering the level of work I put into preparation and the quality of answers I supplied-Oh! That’s a common excuse on campus.
I completed the forms amidst shouts and screams of celebration, amidst my other colleagues. I humbly left the office for the library to continue preparation for my final exams.
A tear dropped
N.B.
Somebody please remind me to:
* Do a thank you blog for all lectures who had taught me.
* Do an analysis on my experience on campus
* Kabiyesi- the Almighty lecturer.
Maybe not exactly finally!
Because this, really is just transiting from one level of existence to another-or is it from one stage of life to another-and really there may not be any note of finality.
But come to think of it, when one’s path is constantly troubled and each time one attempts progress, one obstacle or the other evolves in the path (or so it seems) that causes time dilation, the END becomes elusive and the MEANS becomes uncomfortable.
Ok enough all this philosophical jabbering!
A few days back, precisely 17th Oct. 2006, I was invited to the Head of Department’s office (as an undergraduate, Olabisi Onabanjo University Ago-Iwoye Ogun State, Nigeria, reading Physics) to fill the NYSC Mobilization form. NYSC-is short for National Youth Service Corps-a compulsory and not ‘voluntary’ one year service to the fatherland which all freshly graduated (from all tertiary institutions) under the age of 30 are required to undertake else …ok! I will do a blog on the NYSC, later on.
Yeah filing the form was emotional!
Finally after 6 instead of 41/2 years, I am graduating - 9 months pre-degree + 31/2 years full time study.
My mind reeled to my 1st time at this University having earlier applied to study Chemical Engineering at a neighbouring University. I was finally accepted into the pre- degree program of the OOU to study Geology. That was 2001- a year of self-discovery-at least partial.
That year, I discovered my innate skills, interests and capabilities and finishing one of the best 100 students of 2700 or thereabout and considering the events prior to my admission and the 1st few days of school, that was a feat!?*
I opted to study Physics with the believe that there lies the explanation for the existence of life and possibly the hereafter but was I shocked?
Yeah shocked with the stark abstractness of modern Physics-Quantum mechanics-while still contending with the reality of Newtonian mechanics.
In retrospect! I honestly, may not have found fulfillment anywhere else, the challenges here though nerve wrecking has contributed in making a strong and resolute person of me.
Though it is clear am not making a 1st class (as it is a battle between a 2nd upper and a 2nd lower) I hope it shall be a upper. I wont be shocked with whatever the reality eventually begets as I have over the years done the SWOT analysis and have my mind prepared for the worst, while confidently working and hoping for the best.
While I’m not the extremely bookish person, I have my fair share of “exceptionality”.
While on campus I won several laurels and served the community. Yeah-(remind me to put this in my CV) I got involved with the Directorate of students affairs and was invited thrice (only honoured two) to deliver orientation lectures to freshly admitted undergraduates. (These were great moments when I attempted to put into force my believe in ‘peer partnership’ and positive peer pressure to work)
The laurels included:
2002: 1st place essay competition: National Association of Science Students, OOU Chapter, and was presented the award by the deputy speaker of the Ogun state House of Assembly (I wrote on the immerse benefits of Science & Technology to our collective existence).
2003- Outstanding Student of the Year, Faculty of Science OOU (NASS)
2004-Exemplary studentship (OOU Governing Council, 2004 Convocation Awards)
I had challenges- had to write Chemistry 102 twice, which translated to 4 units carry over and I scored a number of Ds and Es where I believe I should have done better considering the level of work I put into preparation and the quality of answers I supplied-Oh! That’s a common excuse on campus.
I completed the forms amidst shouts and screams of celebration, amidst my other colleagues. I humbly left the office for the library to continue preparation for my final exams.
A tear dropped
N.B.
Somebody please remind me to:
* Do a thank you blog for all lectures who had taught me.
* Do an analysis on my experience on campus
* Kabiyesi- the Almighty lecturer.
Monday, November 20, 2006
NOW WE CAN CONFIDENTLY FACE THE FUTURE
Fellow Nigerians, it has been a tumultuous period for us all but we thank God for seeing us throughWhen we took over governance of this country a few years back the nation was in a state of monumental disarray. Poverty reigned supreme and corruption was our second nature. All public offices and departments were non-functional and our people did not have access to the basic necessities of life e.g. portable water, good roads, good education and good health care, despite the billions of dollars purportedly spent on those areas by successive governments. Ethnic militia groups reigned supreme and our police became a weapon of the state against the masses.
The Int’l World began to introduce all forms of restrictions on our country and her citizenry, the Great Britain refused our youth entry visa into her borders, the United States aerospace agency banned all flights taking off from our airports from landing anywhere near her airports, they subjected our travelers to all forms of painful experiences because of our notoriety as great drug traffickers and advance fee fraudsters.Some of our Governors and other top officials were detained overseas for different nefarious offences which they couldn’t disapprove.
The nation was in a total state of disrepair and was nearly collapsing.However, on assumption of office we identified that our major problem was that of VISION-not Visions like Vision 2010-which was just a national rip-off but real VISION, really seeing where we want to get to and reaching for that destination.For us, our VISION was a better Nigeria-the Nigeria of our dreams, the Nigeria of the dreams of our freedom fighters long gone.The tasks were set, and work commenced, though Herculean and monumental, we craved and got your supports.Today we are all living witnesses to the transformation that our great nation has undergone.We set about a true national rebirth, we decidedly determined to renovate the public service and return trust to governmental institutions, we did not only pay lip service to DUE PROCESS, but implemented it at every level of government and through partnerships with organized labor and the organized private sector, we ensured that the policy was fully and totally entrenched in our daily lives.
Fellow Nigerians, I am proud to say that with our commitment to excellence and your support, we have finally arrived at the Promised Land - that has remained promised until now. Today we have an educational system that is the envy of other countries of the world-Our Minister of Education and that of the European Union recently signed an agreement to train European scholars interested in the African cultural practices at several of Universities.Our scholars were recognized by several Int’l groups and institutions-as 5 of our Professors are Nobel Prize nominees -we pray they eventually win. This is a testimony of our restructured educational system which provides a balance between academic & professional training.Our health sector has also recorded a laudable boost as ailments that had previously been untreatable locally can now be catered for within the confines of our borders-our expertly trained specialists who left the shores of this nation during the dark days have returned and are helping with the evolution of the New Nigeria.Our people and public infrastructure has once again returned to their place of glory, the economy can now favourably compete with that of some developed nations and the fact that the exchange rate of the Naira to the dollar is now N5 to $1 and with the successful execution of the final phase of theeconomic plans of this administration, the rate will be close to N0.50k to $1We have left the bottom of the ladder as the most corrupt nation in the world and we are now the 2nd most uncorrupt nation in the world.
Fellow Nigerians, we are where we hope to be and we got here by collective efforts.Now to retain and even improve our collective standing, requires collective efforts-please don’t go to sleep just yet.With this New Nigeria, we can confidently face the future and answer truthfully the many questions I am sure our unborn children will askThank You!
…and suddenly I woke up.It was only a dream.
The Int’l World began to introduce all forms of restrictions on our country and her citizenry, the Great Britain refused our youth entry visa into her borders, the United States aerospace agency banned all flights taking off from our airports from landing anywhere near her airports, they subjected our travelers to all forms of painful experiences because of our notoriety as great drug traffickers and advance fee fraudsters.Some of our Governors and other top officials were detained overseas for different nefarious offences which they couldn’t disapprove.
The nation was in a total state of disrepair and was nearly collapsing.However, on assumption of office we identified that our major problem was that of VISION-not Visions like Vision 2010-which was just a national rip-off but real VISION, really seeing where we want to get to and reaching for that destination.For us, our VISION was a better Nigeria-the Nigeria of our dreams, the Nigeria of the dreams of our freedom fighters long gone.The tasks were set, and work commenced, though Herculean and monumental, we craved and got your supports.Today we are all living witnesses to the transformation that our great nation has undergone.We set about a true national rebirth, we decidedly determined to renovate the public service and return trust to governmental institutions, we did not only pay lip service to DUE PROCESS, but implemented it at every level of government and through partnerships with organized labor and the organized private sector, we ensured that the policy was fully and totally entrenched in our daily lives.
Fellow Nigerians, I am proud to say that with our commitment to excellence and your support, we have finally arrived at the Promised Land - that has remained promised until now. Today we have an educational system that is the envy of other countries of the world-Our Minister of Education and that of the European Union recently signed an agreement to train European scholars interested in the African cultural practices at several of Universities.Our scholars were recognized by several Int’l groups and institutions-as 5 of our Professors are Nobel Prize nominees -we pray they eventually win. This is a testimony of our restructured educational system which provides a balance between academic & professional training.Our health sector has also recorded a laudable boost as ailments that had previously been untreatable locally can now be catered for within the confines of our borders-our expertly trained specialists who left the shores of this nation during the dark days have returned and are helping with the evolution of the New Nigeria.Our people and public infrastructure has once again returned to their place of glory, the economy can now favourably compete with that of some developed nations and the fact that the exchange rate of the Naira to the dollar is now N5 to $1 and with the successful execution of the final phase of theeconomic plans of this administration, the rate will be close to N0.50k to $1We have left the bottom of the ladder as the most corrupt nation in the world and we are now the 2nd most uncorrupt nation in the world.
Fellow Nigerians, we are where we hope to be and we got here by collective efforts.Now to retain and even improve our collective standing, requires collective efforts-please don’t go to sleep just yet.With this New Nigeria, we can confidently face the future and answer truthfully the many questions I am sure our unborn children will askThank You!
…and suddenly I woke up.It was only a dream.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
THE NIGERIAN FACTOR
It dawned on me that power (electricity) is of extreme importance to communication (and existence!).
I was recently planning a wireless internet access in a community that greatly needs the service. All was well, until suddenly, the fact that I have to power my servers, routers, radios and other network components, stared me in the face. While one can easily run on petrol or diesel powered generator at the operational base, how do you power your on-site or is it off-site equipments?*!
Power generation and distribution has been a twin calamity threatening our national development, while some nations of the World has achieved several decades of no power outage (even it is rumored that certain African countries have celebrated 2-5yrs anniversary of uninterrupted power supply to their citizens) it has remain a major challenge to Nigeria.
With several power generating plants dotting our national geography, abundant oil reserves and available technical no-how, one wonders why this ‘giant’ of Africa cannot provide uninterrupted power for 1 day for at least 50% of her citizens.
Oh the Nigerian factor.
The Nigerian factor takes different shapes depending upon the context in which it is considered, but it generally implies that things don’t work in this country, or that things are not right in this country.
The ‘Nigerian factor’ is akin to a curse, - so blessed yet impoverished.
The Nigerian factor is the reason why our youths queue up everyday for VISAS to foreign lands- and they keep going back after several refusals - they sometimes even take destiny in their own hands and attempt to swim across the red sea (or is it the pacific now) between Morocco and Spain.
The Nigerian factor is the reason why our universities turn out …………. graduates every year (fill the blank !).
The Nigerian factor is the reason why NITEL the teleco behemoth of Nigeria could not live up to expectations (and still does not!) and one wonders what her past directors (now owners of private telecos) are doing at their PTOs that they didn’t do with NITEL.
The Nigerian factor is the reason, why Nigerians are specially frisked for drugs at foreign airports.
The Nigerian factor is the reason, governors name every street, building and NEPA poles in their state, after themselves and presidents give themselves national honors.
It is the Nigerian factor that encourages every occupant of an office - especially public officers - to divert funds into their oversea accounts - ask Govs. Fayose Alayemusiga … etc.
I could go on!
Until the Nigerian factor is eliminated and a new national image, orientation and mentality is arrived at, nothing - I mean N-O-T-H-I-N-G will work in this country.
I was recently planning a wireless internet access in a community that greatly needs the service. All was well, until suddenly, the fact that I have to power my servers, routers, radios and other network components, stared me in the face. While one can easily run on petrol or diesel powered generator at the operational base, how do you power your on-site or is it off-site equipments?*!
Power generation and distribution has been a twin calamity threatening our national development, while some nations of the World has achieved several decades of no power outage (even it is rumored that certain African countries have celebrated 2-5yrs anniversary of uninterrupted power supply to their citizens) it has remain a major challenge to Nigeria.
With several power generating plants dotting our national geography, abundant oil reserves and available technical no-how, one wonders why this ‘giant’ of Africa cannot provide uninterrupted power for 1 day for at least 50% of her citizens.
Oh the Nigerian factor.
The Nigerian factor takes different shapes depending upon the context in which it is considered, but it generally implies that things don’t work in this country, or that things are not right in this country.
The ‘Nigerian factor’ is akin to a curse, - so blessed yet impoverished.
The Nigerian factor is the reason why our youths queue up everyday for VISAS to foreign lands- and they keep going back after several refusals - they sometimes even take destiny in their own hands and attempt to swim across the red sea (or is it the pacific now) between Morocco and Spain.
The Nigerian factor is the reason why our universities turn out …………. graduates every year (fill the blank !).
The Nigerian factor is the reason why NITEL the teleco behemoth of Nigeria could not live up to expectations (and still does not!) and one wonders what her past directors (now owners of private telecos) are doing at their PTOs that they didn’t do with NITEL.
The Nigerian factor is the reason, why Nigerians are specially frisked for drugs at foreign airports.
The Nigerian factor is the reason, governors name every street, building and NEPA poles in their state, after themselves and presidents give themselves national honors.
It is the Nigerian factor that encourages every occupant of an office - especially public officers - to divert funds into their oversea accounts - ask Govs. Fayose Alayemusiga … etc.
I could go on!
Until the Nigerian factor is eliminated and a new national image, orientation and mentality is arrived at, nothing - I mean N-O-T-H-I-N-G will work in this country.
Saturday, September 30, 2006
about my book
ABOUT THE BOOK
For the typical FRESHMAN (fresh undergraduate), who is free for the first time the need for guidance cannot be over emphasized, as one false step can amount into several irreversible negative consequences.
SURVIVING THE ODDS is written especially to help the FRESHMAN settle into school quickly viz identifying priorities on campus.
Based on the author’s experience, SURVIVING THE ODDS offers tips and counseling on :
§ Evolving a practical time plan
§ Making your time plan work
§ Calculating your GPA & CGPA
§ Raising extra cash
§ Partying & Clubbing
No doubt you will be better prepared for the challenges of campus life upon reading this book, keep your copy and continue to refer to it through out your stay on campus and you will have no regrets.
THE AUTHOR
Born in Lagos in the early ‘80s, Oluwakorede Asuni, is an avid reader, a prolific writer, and passionate public speaker, he has addressed numerous youth gatherings and presented a number of papers all aimed at raising public consciousness for the numerous ills that plague the youth.
He is presently a 400 Level student of the Department of Physics, Olabisi Onabanjo University (formerly Ogun State University), Ago Iwoye, Ogun State and hopes to become an expert Telecommunications Engineer in a few years.
For him there is a need to rehabilitate, re-orientate and empower the young to adequately prepare them for the challenges ahead.
For the typical FRESHMAN (fresh undergraduate), who is free for the first time the need for guidance cannot be over emphasized, as one false step can amount into several irreversible negative consequences.
SURVIVING THE ODDS is written especially to help the FRESHMAN settle into school quickly viz identifying priorities on campus.
Based on the author’s experience, SURVIVING THE ODDS offers tips and counseling on :
§ Evolving a practical time plan
§ Making your time plan work
§ Calculating your GPA & CGPA
§ Raising extra cash
§ Partying & Clubbing
No doubt you will be better prepared for the challenges of campus life upon reading this book, keep your copy and continue to refer to it through out your stay on campus and you will have no regrets.
THE AUTHOR
Born in Lagos in the early ‘80s, Oluwakorede Asuni, is an avid reader, a prolific writer, and passionate public speaker, he has addressed numerous youth gatherings and presented a number of papers all aimed at raising public consciousness for the numerous ills that plague the youth.
He is presently a 400 Level student of the Department of Physics, Olabisi Onabanjo University (formerly Ogun State University), Ago Iwoye, Ogun State and hopes to become an expert Telecommunications Engineer in a few years.
For him there is a need to rehabilitate, re-orientate and empower the young to adequately prepare them for the challenges ahead.
Friday, September 29, 2006
THE NIGERIAN QUEEN
THE NIGERIAN QUEEN
Many times I wonder if am truly Nigerian. I don’t even know how much love I have for the country and how much I trust she has in me. I am an African woman, a Nigerian woman for that matter. As much as I know that there is a special image to be protected by me I still find it difficult to totally submit to that fact. I guess it’s because of the many things I go through as a Nigerian in my own father’s country.
O.k., lets be precise, the Nigerian woman has a face or ought to have a face and a voice; a mind strong enough to cause and see change happen. Some are of the opinion that the men have failed woefully (I don’t totally agree with that). But don’t you think it takes two to tango? Every failed man has the support and push of a woman, so that difficult general may have a terrible lieutenant.
It’s our month of independence and all you may have to do to show love to our beloved country is to keep up a good face and voice for us. Women have been used to pass across wrong messages. When you watch video or musical clips that ought to be x-rated, you find a lot of faceless women. I call them faceless because many of them do not mind dancing and acting nude. A woman with a face of sound morals and integrity will not do such. It is easy for men to generalize and insult women because of the three of four they met at different times who could not prove them wrong. Even politicians are having a good time with enough young girls to carry around. When will you say NO?! I mean an affirmative NO! Many think they are saying no but their faces and actions are screaming YES!
I don’t want to begin to mention names or call any woman a model that can be imitated because there are so many leaders/models on the outside whose secret escapades cannot be taken after. You are an African queen, a woman of strength and great inner ability and potential. The power to change the world lies quietly within you. There are o many things you need to say NO to, say NO to your family’s bad history or background; say NO to those friends who wants to lure you into unprofitable activities; say No to those boys or men who think you are nothing but a sex tool; say No to father or family who wants to trade your beauty and life for the sake of family gratification. You may have to say No to yourself too because there are time you feel like giving up by damning all the consequences of making it.
There is a great king at the other end. The guy is at he airport waiting for your great arrival. Please make him proud. Raise up the right voice that would make you a legend whose husband and children will call blessed!
Catch yah!
Adetutu
Many times I wonder if am truly Nigerian. I don’t even know how much love I have for the country and how much I trust she has in me. I am an African woman, a Nigerian woman for that matter. As much as I know that there is a special image to be protected by me I still find it difficult to totally submit to that fact. I guess it’s because of the many things I go through as a Nigerian in my own father’s country.
O.k., lets be precise, the Nigerian woman has a face or ought to have a face and a voice; a mind strong enough to cause and see change happen. Some are of the opinion that the men have failed woefully (I don’t totally agree with that). But don’t you think it takes two to tango? Every failed man has the support and push of a woman, so that difficult general may have a terrible lieutenant.
It’s our month of independence and all you may have to do to show love to our beloved country is to keep up a good face and voice for us. Women have been used to pass across wrong messages. When you watch video or musical clips that ought to be x-rated, you find a lot of faceless women. I call them faceless because many of them do not mind dancing and acting nude. A woman with a face of sound morals and integrity will not do such. It is easy for men to generalize and insult women because of the three of four they met at different times who could not prove them wrong. Even politicians are having a good time with enough young girls to carry around. When will you say NO?! I mean an affirmative NO! Many think they are saying no but their faces and actions are screaming YES!
I don’t want to begin to mention names or call any woman a model that can be imitated because there are so many leaders/models on the outside whose secret escapades cannot be taken after. You are an African queen, a woman of strength and great inner ability and potential. The power to change the world lies quietly within you. There are o many things you need to say NO to, say NO to your family’s bad history or background; say NO to those friends who wants to lure you into unprofitable activities; say No to those boys or men who think you are nothing but a sex tool; say No to father or family who wants to trade your beauty and life for the sake of family gratification. You may have to say No to yourself too because there are time you feel like giving up by damning all the consequences of making it.
There is a great king at the other end. The guy is at he airport waiting for your great arrival. Please make him proud. Raise up the right voice that would make you a legend whose husband and children will call blessed!
Catch yah!
Adetutu
THE NIGERIAN FACTOR
It dawned on me that power (electricity) is of extreme importance to communication (and existence!).
I was recently planning a wireless internet access in a community that greatly needs the service. All was well, until suddenly, the fact that I have to power my servers, routers, radios and other network components, stared me in the face. While one can easily run on petrol or diesel powered generator at the operational base, how do you power your on-site or is it off-site equipments?*!
Power generation and distribution has been a twin calamity threatening our national development, while some nations of the World has achieved several decades of no power outage (even it is rumored that certain African countries have celebrated 2-5yrs anniversary of uninterrupted power supply to their citizens) it has remain a major challenge to Nigeria.
With several power generating plants dotting our national geography, abundant oil reserves and available technical no-how, one wonders why this ‘giant’ of Africa cannot provide uninterrupted power for 1 day for at least 50% of her citizens.
Oh the Nigerian factor.
The Nigerian factor takes different shapes depending upon the context in which it is considered, but it generally implies that things don’t work in this country, or that things are not right in this country.
The ‘Nigerian factor’ is akin to a curse, - so blessed yet impoverished.
The Nigerian factor is the reason why our youths queue up everyday for VISAS to foreign lands– and they keep going back after several refusals – they sometimes even take destiny in their own hands and attempt to swim across the red sea (or is it the pacific now) between Morocco and Spain.
The Nigerian factor is the reason why our universities turn out …………. graduates every year (fill the blank !).
The Nigerian factor is the reason why NITEL the teleco behemoth of Nigeria could not live up to expectations (and still does not!) and one wonders what her past directors (now owners of private telecos) are doing at their PTOs that they didn’t do with NITEL.
The Nigerian factor is the reason, why Nigerians are specially frisked for drugs at foreign airports.
The Nigerian factor is the reason, governors name every street, building and NEPA poles in their state, after themselves and presidents give themselves national honors.
It is the Nigerian factor that encourages every occupant of an office – especially public officers – to divert funds into their oversea accounts – ask Govs. Fayose Alayemusiga … etc.
I could go on!
Until the Nigerian factor is eliminated and a new national image, orientation and mentality is arrived at, nothing – I mean N-O-T-H-I-N-G will work in this country.
I was recently planning a wireless internet access in a community that greatly needs the service. All was well, until suddenly, the fact that I have to power my servers, routers, radios and other network components, stared me in the face. While one can easily run on petrol or diesel powered generator at the operational base, how do you power your on-site or is it off-site equipments?*!
Power generation and distribution has been a twin calamity threatening our national development, while some nations of the World has achieved several decades of no power outage (even it is rumored that certain African countries have celebrated 2-5yrs anniversary of uninterrupted power supply to their citizens) it has remain a major challenge to Nigeria.
With several power generating plants dotting our national geography, abundant oil reserves and available technical no-how, one wonders why this ‘giant’ of Africa cannot provide uninterrupted power for 1 day for at least 50% of her citizens.
Oh the Nigerian factor.
The Nigerian factor takes different shapes depending upon the context in which it is considered, but it generally implies that things don’t work in this country, or that things are not right in this country.
The ‘Nigerian factor’ is akin to a curse, - so blessed yet impoverished.
The Nigerian factor is the reason why our youths queue up everyday for VISAS to foreign lands– and they keep going back after several refusals – they sometimes even take destiny in their own hands and attempt to swim across the red sea (or is it the pacific now) between Morocco and Spain.
The Nigerian factor is the reason why our universities turn out …………. graduates every year (fill the blank !).
The Nigerian factor is the reason why NITEL the teleco behemoth of Nigeria could not live up to expectations (and still does not!) and one wonders what her past directors (now owners of private telecos) are doing at their PTOs that they didn’t do with NITEL.
The Nigerian factor is the reason, why Nigerians are specially frisked for drugs at foreign airports.
The Nigerian factor is the reason, governors name every street, building and NEPA poles in their state, after themselves and presidents give themselves national honors.
It is the Nigerian factor that encourages every occupant of an office – especially public officers – to divert funds into their oversea accounts – ask Govs. Fayose Alayemusiga … etc.
I could go on!
Until the Nigerian factor is eliminated and a new national image, orientation and mentality is arrived at, nothing – I mean N-O-T-H-I-N-G will work in this country.
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