A Nigerian student, Achunike Okafor, has been honoured after he made record at Science Park High School in Newark, New Jersey, the United States.
According to TapIntoNewark, an online newspaper, Okafor received an International Baccalaureate diploma with a record-shattering 4.625.grade-point average from the school.
The institution noted that his GPA is the highest among Newark’s 2,649 graduates in the Class of 2023, and highest-ever for the city public school district.
Some forty top universities including Columbia, Cornell, Dartmouth, Duke, Princeton, Penn State, Stanford, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Southern California, and Rutgers have made him scholarship offers following his sterling performance.
Reacting to his performance, Science Park principal, Darlene Gearhart said: “There’s absolutely nothing average him.
“Achunike is an extraordinary (person). He’s humble, driven, and industrious. He has always been a great kid. He is always eager to learn,” Gearhart said.
On his part, the 18-year-old who plans to study neuroscience degree at Harvard University said:
“I am grateful for the opportunities to attend such esteemed universities and to represent my family and community.
“I do not take lightly the privilege and responsibility to be among the few individuals selected for such honors.”
The Superintendent of Schools Roger León acknowledged Achunike’s exceptional performance as a source of pride for Science Park High, the school district, and the Newark community.
León said: “We are extremely proud of Achunike Okafor.
“His achievements are a testament to his perseverance, resilience, and dedication to excellence. We wish him continued success at Harvard, and look forward to more accomplishments from him in the future,” León said.
In the meantime, Achunike has five siblings, including two older brothers and three sisters who are pursuing computer engineering, pharmacology, nursing and law. Read more.
—