UNILAG’s Badekale Sets Record,Wins European Scholarship

In a monumental achievement for Nigerian academia, Samuel Akinade Badekale, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) 2023/2024 academic session’s Overall Best Graduating Student, has been awarded the highly coveted Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s scholarship. Badekale, who stunned the nation by graduating with a perfect 5.00/5.00 CGPA in Cell Biology and Genetics, will pursue advanced studies in biomembranes across three prestigious European universities: Université Côte d’Azur (France), University of Genoa (Italy), and University of Osnabrück (Germany), over the next two years.

Badekale, celebrated as the only Nigerian and West African recipient in this year’s cycle, announced the joyous news on his social media, expressing gratitude and reflecting on his journey from Mushin, Lagos to the global stage. In his words:

“Pleased to announce the next step in my journey: selected as the only Nigerian and West African for the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s in Biomembranes, studying across three world-class universities in France, Italy and Germany.
As I look back, I see a young boy from Mushin, with a big dream: to explore the world and make a positive impact on the world.
And today, by God’s faithfulness, that dream is gradually becoming a reality. Truly, ‘with God, every dream is achievable, even those that seem impossible.’”

Badekale’s achievement goes beyond personal triumph; he urges young Nigerians to embrace education with determination. He advises:

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“To my younger self and every student out there: Trust God.
Hold your education tightly. Come out with the best grades possible, strive for excellence, because education is still one of the most powerful keys to move from your local community to the global stage.
Education isn’t a scam. It’s a weapon. Use it.”

His selection places him in advanced courses covering Membrane Biology, Neuroscience, and Experimental Medicine, preparing him to join a new generation of global researchers and innovators.

The UNILAG alumni’s story has resonated widely, highlighting the power of dreams, hard work, and faith, especially for those coming from humble backgrounds. As UNILAG celebrates this historic feat at its 55th Convocation ceremony, Badekale stands as a beacon of possibility for every Nigerian student striving for excellence.