Oyindamola Apampa, a 16-year-old student from Lagoon Secondary School in Lagos, Nigeria, transformed an initial setback into a triumph by achieving an aggregate score of 351 in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). Her journey began with a disappointing score of 158 in her first attempt, marred by technical glitches at her examination centre, which disrupted her performance. Undeterred, Apampa leveraged a second opportunity provided by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to resit the exam, where she delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 65 in English Language, 98 in Mathematics, 98 in Physics, and 90 in Chemistry.
Apampa’s success was not a product of chance but a result of meticulous preparation, unwavering determination and a supportive environment. She credited her achievement to a combination of divine favour, rigorous study routines and guidance from her family and mentors at a learning centre in Lekki, Lagos. The centre provided her with intensive UTME preparation classes and frequent mock examinations, which honed her time management skills and deepened her understanding of the exam’s structure and demands.
Her home environment played a pivotal role in her academic journey, offering a conducive space for learning. Equipped with a full library and a multimedia study room, Apampa had access to extensive resources that facilitated her preparation. This setup allowed her to engage in self-directed study, supplementing her formal education and coaching sessions with independent research and practice.
Apampa’s academic excellence extends beyond her UTME performance. In her Junior West African Examinations Council (WAEC) examination, she secured 10 As and one B, demonstrating her consistent brilliance across subjects. Her participation in international competitions, such as the Conrad Challenge, where she represented Nigeria on a global stage, further underscores her intellectual versatility and ambition.
Reflecting on her preparation strategy, Apampa emphasized the importance of discipline and structured study. She adhered to a strict timetable, dedicating specific hours to each subject while ensuring she balanced her academic commitments with adequate rest. Her approach included solving past UTME questions, which helped her familiarize herself with the exam format and identify areas for improvement.
The initial technical glitch that led to her low score in the first attempt was a significant setback, but Apampa viewed it as a learning opportunity. She analyzed her performance, identified weaknesses, and focused on strengthening her grasp of key concepts, particularly in Mathematics and Physics, where she later scored exceptionally high. Her ability to adapt and remain focused under pressure was a testament to her maturity and resilience.
Support from her family was instrumental in her success. Apampa’s parents provided not only emotional encouragement but also ensured she had access to high-quality educational resources and coaching. Their belief in her potential motivated her to push beyond the initial disappointment and aim for excellence in the resit examination.
The learning centre in Lekki played a complementary role, offering a structured environment where Apampa could engage with experienced tutors and peers preparing for the same exam. The mock exams conducted at the centre simulated real exam conditions, helping her build confidence and refine her test-taking strategies. These sessions were particularly valuable in improving her speed and accuracy, which were critical to her high scores in Mathematics and Physics.
Apampa’s aspirations extend far beyond her UTME success. She has her sights set on studying Software Engineering or Computer Science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), a goal that reflects her passion for technology and innovation. Her participation in the Conrad Challenge, a global competition that encourages students to develop solutions to real-world problems, has already given her a platform to showcase her skills in this field.
Her story has inspired many in her community and beyond, serving as a reminder of the power of perseverance and strategic preparation. Apampa’s journey from a score of 158 to 351 highlights the importance of resilience in the face of adversity and the value of a supportive educational ecosystem. She expressed gratitude to her teachers, family, and the JAMB authorities for providing her with a second chance to prove her capabilities.
