‘My father has always been my first mentor’ — Renowned scholar’s son on emerging overall best student from BUK

Ahmad Sharafudeen, son of renowned scholar Dr. Sharafudeen Gbadebo Raji, is the overall best graduating student from Bayero University, Kano at the 38th convocation ceremonies. He graduated from the department of computer science with an impressive cumulative of 4.94 out of a possible 5. He speaks with Edugist on balancing good grades with gaining knowledge. Excerpts 

Please share with Edugist, a little about yourself and your background.

I’m Ahmad Sharafudeen, a recent computer science graduate from Bayero University Kano. I’m honored to have emerged as the overall best graduating student at the just-concluded 38th convocation ceremony, achieving a CGPA of 4.94/5.00.

My passion lies in using software technologies to solve real-world problems, and I’m always eager to learn new things. Originally from Ogbomoso, Oyo State, I’m excited to see what the future holds.

What motivated you to pursue a degree in computer science?

Finishing secondary school, I was set on pursuing an engineering degree, with civil engineering initially attracting my attention. However, my friends, AbdurRaheem Yusuf (now VP Innovation and Technology at AFEX) and Yusuf Oguntola (now Chief Technology Officer at AFEX), were passionate programmers. Their collaborative approach and the innovative nature of their software projects truly fascinated me.

Witnessing their work sparked a passion in me for the creative problem-solving and tangible results software engineering offered. This shift in interest led me to pursue a degree in computer science.

Were there any courses that you found particularly challenging?

While courses like Algorithms and Data Structures and Compiler Construction initially presented a challenge, I was able to excel in them. One habit I have is to self-assess my progress at mid-semester and before exams for every course. This allows me to identify areas that might need extra focus, allowing me to excel in all my courses.

How do you balance reading to gain knowledge and to get good grades?

Balancing reading for knowledge and grades wasn’t particularly difficult for me because I found a lot of overlap between the two.

The recommended course texts often delved into real-life software development applications. This meant that by focusing on understanding the concepts thoroughly, I was naturally acquiring the knowledge needed for good grades.

Additionally, I supplemented my studies with relevant online resources or other materials to gain a broader perspective on the subject matter. This approach helped me solidify my grasp of the material and perform well academically.

What significant challenges did you encounter during your study?

One significant challenge I encountered during my studies was during a strike by non-academic staff in my third year. The library closed early at 5 pm and limited access to classrooms for reading due to the strike significantly impacted my usual study routine. Finding suitable reading spaces became a constant hurdle.

Did you participate in any internship during your study?

Absolutely! During my penultimate year at Bayero University, Kano, I had the valuable opportunity to participate in a 6-month internship as a Software Engineer Intern at AFEX.

I was among the first cohort of the company’s AFEX Tech Stars (ATS) programme. The internship provided me with real-world industry experience, allowing me to apply my knowledge in a practical setting. It also opened doors to collaboration, networking opportunities, and fostered valuable relationships within the field.

Did you win any scholarship for your study?

Yes. I received the Bayero University Scholarship for the Best Student in the Department of Computer Science for every session throughout my studies. This recognition consistently motivated me to excel in my studies and solidified my passion for the field.

Do you have any role models you look up to?

While my mentors guide my technical development, for academic excellence and Islamic knowledge, I look up to my father, Dr. Sharafudeen Gbadebo Raji, a distinguished scholar who graduated with highest honors from the Islamic University of Madinah.

He has always been my first mentor and motivator, setting a high bar with his own achievements. I specifically remember his advice when I got admitted into Bayero University Kano. He took the time to impress upon me the importance of aiming high and striving for excellence in both my academic pursuits and Islamic knowledge. These role models have provided me with invaluable guidance and motivation throughout my academic journey.

Has any lecturer contributed to your ease of navigating your academics?

Yes, definitely. In 200L, I was inspired by a lecturer by the name Mallam Sagir Tanimu. He told the story of the first time he had 5.00 and how he himself was happy and proud of himself before anybody else like his parents.

He took his time to motivate us saying “A” should be one’s target for each and every course but one should only settle for B as a worst case scenario. His story had a lasting impact on me.

What are your long-term career goals?

I aspire to continue learning and growing in my career as a software engineer and I aim to become a world-class Chief Technology Officer in a reputable company leading a team of professional engineers and working on products that make the world a better place in the nearest future.

Are you interested in furthering your education beyond undergraduate level?

I’m highly motivated to further my education beyond my undergraduate degree. In Shaa Allah, I aspire to pursue a Ph.D. in computer science to delve deeper into a specific area of research that interests me.

I believe a Ph.D. will equip me with the advanced knowledge and expertise to make significant contributions to the field.

After your bachelor’s degree, what next?

I am open to all the amazing opportunities out there including foreign roles that will enable me to work with world-class software engineers and on amazing projects.

Though I’m completing my one-year compulsory NYSC programme, I am also working as a professional software engineer.