INTERVIEW: Govt should reward academic excellence more, says teenager who aced WAEC with 9 A’s — and scored 331 in JAMB

For Ucheagbu Obinna Johnpaul, where there’s a will, there’s a way. The 16-year-old has become a viral sensation since he aced the 2022 West African Examination Certificate (WAEC) with 9 A’s and scored 331 in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

In this Interview with CRISPNG’s Genevieve Aningo, Johnpaul reflects on what inspired his success and aspirations for the future.

Tell us about you and your educational background 

My name is Uchegbu Obinna Johnpaul. I am the last child of my parents, Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Uchegbu.  I am an indigene of Mgbirichi, Ohaji Egbema Local Government Area, Imo state. I reside in Imo state too.

I attended four primary schools in Imo State but completed my primary school education at The Good Shepherd Montessori School. 

However, my secondary education was in  Abia State where I attended Marist Brothers’ Juniorate, Uturu.

I held leadership positions both in my primary and secondary school. I was the Head Boy and Senior Prefect respectively. 

How does it feel scoring 9 A’s in your WAEC and then 331 in JAMB?

It feels wonderful. I am very proud of myself. I am grateful to God as well.

What were the habits you adopted to claim such academic excellence 

I became very prayerful. I also had to extend my reading hours and kill any form of distraction. I had to motivate myself constantly and tell myself that I could do it.

What do you want to become in future and why?

I want to become a medical doctor. After reading the Ben Carson novels, I just want to be like him. I find Biology very interesting and I see myself in no other profession.

As a child, what are your major challenges?

I did not really face any major challenges as a child. All my life, I have only strived for excellence. I don’t want to be a disappointment to my parents

So far Have you benefited from any financial assistance  or goodwill from your family and community as a result of your academic excellence ? 

Yes

Aside from academics, what other skills are you great at?

I love singing. As a matter of fact, I can sing very well and I write songs too. I love teaching others as well

What do you want other students to learn from your academic excellence?

Hard work, confidence and prayer is all you need to be successful in life.

Is there any advice you have for the government to increase academic performance of Nigerian students and the education sector?

The government needs to be aware of the seriousness of the strike. They should tackle it as if they are facing COVID-19 again; it is a sensitive matter. Also, it is important to reward academic excellence at all stages.