Michael OKEOLA

 

The Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria (CYON) of Oyo Diocese is celebrating a remarkable academic feat achieved by one of her distinguished youths, Adeola Anthonia Oyetunde, who has made history as the first female to graduate with a First Class Honours degree in Surveying and Geoinformatics from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile Ife.

 

Adeola, a devoted youth of St. Mary Catholic Church, Ife Odan, graduated with an exceptional 4.69/5.0 CGPA and was also recognized as the Best Female Graduate from the Faculty of Environmental Design and Management, bringing pride to the Diocese, her parish, and the wider Catholic youth community.

 

Beyond academics, Adeola distinguished herself in research, hackathons, and global collaborations, while holding several leadership roles on campus, including Sports Director, FYB Chairman, and Provost. She was also active in varsity-level volleyball and track events.

 

During an exclusive interview with the Communications Crew of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo, Adeola recounted that her academic path was not defined by grand visions. “It started with a 3.8 CGPA and a confused woman,” she admitted. The turning point, she revealed, came after the passing of her father, Late Mr. Augustine Gbadebo Oyetunde. “In the midst of grief, I made a decision to honor his memory by giving my absolute best. That semester, I pushed for a perfect GPA not just for myself, but for him.” She said her disciplined approach, combined with early mornings wake up, late night’s candles, and consistency turned her determination into excellence, resulting in her historic achievement.

 

Adeola also shared how she balanced academics with her hobbies and leadership roles. She said “Excellence doesn’t require choosing one path; it requires mastering balance,” she also added that Sports, Church service, and leadership responsibilities became training grounds for discipline, time management, and responsibility. She emphasized the importance of being fully present in every task while maintaining moments of rest and joy.

 

Addressing the common perception that very playful and cheerful individuals which are parts of her characters may be seen as unserious, Adeola said her approach was to let her results speak for themselves. “Joy and excellence aren’t opposites, they’re companions,” she explained. Her cheerful disposition, coupled with determination and faith, allowed her to navigate challenges while maintaining resilience and optimism.

 

In her advice for the youths especially those with a humble beginning and rural upbringing, Adeola siad: “Don’t settle for 'good enough.' Balance is not a luxury, it’s a strategy. Growth isn’t always loud, some days, simply showing up is the victory. Let your results speak louder than assumptions, and lean on your faith when life feels heavy.”

 

Looking ahead, Adeola is committed to furthering her expertise in GIS, climate mapping, and geospatial technology, aiming to tackle real-world challenges like climate change, urban planning, and sustainable development. She also intends to mentor young women in STEM, proving that excellence and faith can coexist, and that world-class achievements are possible without compromising values and community ties.

 

Adeola’s remarkable story is a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and the unwavering support of family, Church, and community—a shining example for future generations in Oyo Diocese and beyond.