Heba Oyindamola Hamzat, a 23-year-old indigene of Ibadan, graduated from the Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Ilorin, with a First Class. In this interview, she recalls her road to that exploit.
Before the University of Ilorin, which other schools did you attend?
I attended Ronk New Age Nursery and Primary School, Akobo, Ibadan, and the Federal Government Girls’ College, Oyo.
Can you speak on your journey into Unilorin?
It was through the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in 2018. I tried securing admission earlier in 2017 but I didn’t succeed due to a wrong UTME subject combination.
How did you find studying Biomedical Engineering?
It was fascinating because of its interdisciplinary nature. Unlike other engineering departments, our curriculum was remarkably diverse. We moved between health and biological sciences, electrical and electronics engineering, and mechanical engineering often in the same semester.
What are your high points in the course of your study?
I am most proud of an innovation I made in the mobility aid with collision prevention mechanism for people living with mobility disabilities. It was recognised nationally, winning the regional championship and securing the second runner-up position at the Committee of Deans of Engineering and Technology of Nigerian Universities Engineering Students’ Project Competition in the group project category.
It addresses the safety and hygiene issues related to traditional mobility aids which require the users to put their hands in their footwear to propel themselves therefore exposing them to bacteria and germs and also strain in their body parts especially their arms, shoulder and back.
I also collaborated with my colleagues to develop an innovative timer switch for optimised energy utilisation and management. All these were accomplished while serving as the Vice President of my Faculty Students’ Association, where I learned how to balance leadership responsibilities with academics.
How influential or otherwise are your parents on the course?
My parents, particularly my father, played an interesting role. My father wanted me to study medicine, a common aspiration many parents have for their children. While I respected his wishes, I knew my passion lay more in engineering and innovation. When I got to know about biomedical engineering, I saw it as a perfect bridge between my father’s healthcare aspirations and my engineering interests.
The story became more interesting after my first unsuccessful attempt at admission. My father saw this as another opportunity to convince me about medicine. Also, my mentor and father figure Engineer Dr S.A Yahaya played a key role in his achievements and tenacity.
Did you set out deliberately to make First Class?
Yes, I did. I knew I wanted to graduate with a First Class from the very first day and I was willing to do everything right to get it.
Are there any of your siblings you observe who are more brilliant than you?
I can’t tell if any of us is more brilliant than the other. I think everyone is doing fine in their chosen fields.
What did it take to achieve this outstanding result?
This achievement was built on countless sleepless nights and unwavering determination. It was made possible by the unconditional love of my family, the steady support of friends, and the invaluable guidance of mentors and lecturers who believed in me every step of the way.
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