By Mutalib Jibril
With ten awards and a CGPA of 4.88, Abdulsalam Ibrahim recently emerged as the best-graduating student of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Usmanu Danfodio University, Sokoto, for the 2022/2023 academic session. In this interview with Mutalib Jibril, after the Induction ceremony held on May 10, 2024, he speaks about his educational journey and how he achieved this feat.
Who is Abdulsalam Ibrahim?
Abdulsalam Ibrahim was born to the family of Alhaji Hussaini Abdulsalam and Hajiya Bashirah Ibrahim Abdulsalam in Minna, Niger state. I hail from Zungeru, Wushishi L.G.A of Niger State. I’m the fifth child of a family of six. I had my Primary and Secondary education at Minna before proceeding to the then School of Matriculation Studies, UDUS. I was admitted to study pharmacy at the most prestigious faculty of pharmaceutical sciences, UDUS.
With a Grade Index of 4.88, you emerged as the 2022/2023 best-graduating student of the faculty of pharmacy. How was this possible?
Alhamdulillah for the blessings of Allah upon me. Emerging as the best-graduating student is only possible because Allah has destined it to be so. Numerous factors contributed to this being a reality. Many of which are external and beyond my control. It couldn’t have been the hard work or the consistency. Many of my classmates were more hard-working and consistent. In summary, pray to the Almighty Allah always, try your best in a healthy manner and leave the rest. What Allah wishes for you will always prevail whether you like it.
Why did you choose to study Pharmacy?
I never chose pharmacy. Allah chose pharmacy for me. After completing the school of matriculation studies, UDUS (2016/2017 set). I was admitted to study medicine and surgery at the university. However, due to some challenges the university faced with JAMB, some of our admissions had to be changed to other courses. It was a bitter experience for me because I wanted medicine. After attending some lectures on the History and Ethics of Pharmacy, a course offered at 100 level. I became interested in the profession and decided not to write another JAMB. The rest is history.
Would you say you knew you were going to be the best–graduating student?
Not until some days before the induction did I know. Of course, the chances were high because I always had one of the best results in my class right from 100 level. The class was competitive with many hardworking, consistent, outstanding and intelligent scholars. Hence, the name “Mavericks” class of 2022”. The environment was encouraging because everyone contributed, and there was always much to learn. Alhamdulillah
What was your reading schedule like?
I don’t have a specific reading schedule. Pharmacy is overwhelming, with extended hours of lectures and practicals. The time available is always not enough. You keep studying even when you get tired. To pass a course with 50% as the pass mark is not for the lazy. Some courses even require a minimum of 60%. So, I was able to adapt to the system. The time at my disposal always determines my reading schedule for that particular time, except for my 100-level days when there was ample time to study during the day and sleep at night.
Which area of the course did you find most interesting?
Clinical pharmacy (therapeutics) and pharmaceutical microbiology.
How many awards did you receive? Please list them
10 awards, Alhamdulillah. These are:
– PCN award for the best-graduating student.
– Nigerian Association of Pharmacists in Academia (NAPA) award for the best graduating student.
– The faculty of Pharmaceutical sciences, UDUS award for best-graduating student.
– Award for the best-graduating student in clinical pharmacy and pharmacy practice.
– Board of Fellows of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria award for the best graduating student in clinical pharmacy and pharmacy practice.
– Award for the best-graduating student from Niger State.
– The faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences has a UDUS certificate of distinction.
– PSN, Kebbi state cash award for the best-graduating student.
– Centre For Advanced Medical Research and Training (CAMRET) cash award for the best-graduating student.
– Bioraj Pharmaceuticals cash award for the best-graduating student.
Did you engage in extracurricular activities or take up leadership roles during your stay at the university?
Yes, there were some leadership roles. I served as the Asst. Sec. Gen., Pharmaceutical Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (PMSSN). I also served as deputy Ameer, PMSSN. I was part of the Imams at the Masjid in Amanawa Hostel for two sessions. I served as deputy Ameer Association of Muslim Health Students(AHMS).
I was Organizing Secretary NANISS Health wing (National Association of Niger State Students). I served as Sec. Gen., PANISS (Pharmaceutical Association of Niger State Students). And also President PANISS.
What was your best and lowest moment while in school?
My best moment was at the 200 level, when I passed all my courses with distinction, while my lowest moment was at the 300 level.
What are your future aspirations in your field?
I want to be a specialist in cardiovascular therapeutics or psychiatry. This will help me give back to society in a community or hospital setting. If Allah so wishes, I would like to be a researcher and teacher in clinical pharmacy or pharmaceutical microbiology.
What would be your advice to students aiming to attain academic excellence?
Restrict yourself from toxic situations. Know your limits. Maintain your physical and mental well-being. In academic settings, the brain does the work. You can easily achieve a lot in little time with a healthy lifestyle.
Secondly, you need to start strong and be consistent throughout. Your academic performance is a cumulative result of your effort from the 100 level. Additionally, always start reading early to grasp the concepts efficiently. This also allowsfor repetitive study. Proper understanding always saves the day.
Finally, always pray to Allah in everything you do. Eat well, sleep well, work hard, and trust in Allah.