Nigerian graduate gets 40 scholarship offers after record-breaking GPA in Newark

Achunike Okafor, a Nigerian graduate, has received recognition from Science Park High School in Newark, New Jersey, for his exceptional academic performance.

According to TapIntoNewark, an online newspaper, Okafor achieved a remarkable 4.625 grade-point average, setting a new record for the International Baccalaureate diploma at the school.

Okafor’s GPA surpasses that of the 2,649 graduates in the Class of 2023 in Newark, making it the highest ever recorded in the city’s public school district.

As a result of his outstanding achievement, he received over 40 scholarship offers from prestigious universities, including Columbia, Cornell, Dartmouth, Duke, Princeton, Penn State, Stanford, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Southern California, and Rutgers.

Expressing his gratitude, Okafor stated, “I am grateful for the opportunities to attend such esteemed universities and to represent my family and community. I do not take lightly the privilege and responsibility to be among the few individuals selected for such honors.”

His plans include pursuing a neuroscience degree at Harvard University, furthering his academic journey.

Describing Okafor, Science Park principal Darlene Gearhart said, “There’s absolutely nothing average about him. Achunike is an extraordinary person. He’s humble, driven, and industrious. He has always been a great kid and is always eager to learn.”

Superintendent of Schools Roger León acknowledged Okafor’s exceptional accomplishments, emphasizing the pride they bring to Science Park High, the school district, and the Newark community.

“We are extremely proud of Achunike Okafor. His achievements are a testament to his perseverance, resilience, and dedication to excellence. We wish him continued success at Harvard and look forward to more accomplishments from him in the future,” said León.

Okafor’s father, Godfrey Okafor, also expressed pride in his son’s achievements, highlighting the family’s strong emphasis on education.

“We place a high premium on education in our home. Education, and continuing to learn in life, allows young people to provide for themselves and their families and build their future,” he shared.

Okafor, a high school math teacher, mentioned that his other children are pursuing various fields such as computer engineering, pharmacology, nursing, and law.

In addition to his academic achievements, Achunike Okafor actively participated in extracurricular activities at his school. He co-founded the Science Club, served as vice-president of the Junior Student Council and Stand & Deliver Club, and held positions such as president of the Future Educators Club and Black Student Union, co-captain of the robotics team, and treasurer of the Environmental Club.

NAN