Cheers To New Beginnings: Celebrating My Sister-In-Law's Convocation (11/07/2024).

Dear Diary,

Some days are special, and for celebrations, so was Thursday, November 07, 2024. I celebrated my sister-in-law's graduation convocation with her, and everything was just ok. Let me write in detail what happened that day, so stay tuned.

I woke up to my mom's call, who asked me to represent her well at the ceremony since she couldn't come. Raising early, I jumped off the bed, and went into the kitchen, juggling our breakfast while planning my outfit for the day ahead. My husband quickly got the kids ready for school and then dropped them at school. I showered and dressed up and then made my way to the venue, but I first picked my brother and sister-in-law up because their car broke down.

The day was bright, and excitement was everywhere! It was the 29th & 30th convocation ceremony at the University of Uyo, Nigeria. I was just eager to see the event unfold, I guess that was because I couldn't attend mine because it happened to fall on the day after I born my first son, hahaha😂.

We were among the early arrivals, so we took the opportunity to capture some photographs with the celebrant, my sister-in-law, adorned in her graduation gown, her joy was just contagious. I also snapped a few solo shots of her to preserve the beautiful memories that would last a lifetime. After that we headed to the designated area where the ceremony would take place, I could feel the energy of anticipation.

There was a wave of excitement at the venue, everywhere was crowded with graduates and their proud relatives, buzzing with excitement. The atmosphere was filled with joy, laughter, and chatter, punctuated by the occasional voice of the moderator, signaling an important guest's arrival.

The ceremony officially commenced at 10:20 AM with the singing of our national Anthem and the school Anthem. These create a heartfelt moment that unites everyone present. The MC, with charisma, poise, and demure, began the program by recognizing the dignitaries in attendance and inviting them to the high table. The Vice-Chancellor led the procession, followed by deans and professors, all dressed in their academic regalia. The most thrilling moment was when the first-class students, who had achieved a remarkable 4.50 GPA and above in their respective departments, were honored. Their pride and achievements filled the room with inspiration.

The Vice-Chancellor anchored the event, he shared a brief history of the University of Uyo, filled with milestones and achievements. The school was formally a College of Education and then an affiliate of the University of Calabar before it got its accreditation; that day marks its 30th convention ceremony; isn't that incredible, 30 years of excellence! His words resonated deeply, he encouraged the fresh graduands to harness their education and become employers of labor themselves, he also emphasized the need for them to implement what they had learned.

Other deans took turns to address the assembly, and discussions were held about excellence and ambition, culminating in the presentation of awards to the best-performing students. Outstanding among them was Emem Ekong, who graduated from the Medical science department with a GPA of 4.79/5.0; the beautiful, intelligent, and humble girl has made her parents proud!

After the ceremony, we drove down to my husband's office, and he treated us to lunch at one of the finest restaurants in Uyo. Well, I couldn't resist indulging in our local delicacy, fisherman soup, which was super delicious! I'm grateful to my husband for this treat; it makes her feel special, and may the Almighty God bless him abundantly for his generous heart.

Following our delightful meal, we visited my sister-in-law’s aunt, who welcomed us heartily. We spent some quality time together and had meaningful discussions. After that, I snapped a few shots of photos goodness! Before I knew it—the clock was ticking, and it was time for me to head home.

I left for home around 5:00 PM, my heart full from a day well spent. Upon arrival, my children greeted me with joyous laughter; they stole my heart with beautiful flowers and the plug for me on their way back home from school.

They were just eager to share their day’s adventures with me. But I first of all showered them and then gave them dinner. That night, I told them Bible stories and they retired to bed at 8:30 PM, I felt grateful for the successful day and cherished the beautiful moments with loved ones.

A shout-out to the latest graduate in town!!! Congratulations to you, @blessedbee. May this open doors of opportunities for you; you're blessed!