Science Park High School in Newark, New Jersey, USA, has bestowed an honor upon a remarkable Nigerian graduate, Achunike Okafor, for his [b]exceptional academic achievement.
According to TapIntoNewark, an online newspaper, Okafor achieved a truly remarkable feat by receiving an International Baccalaureate diploma with an astounding 4.625 grade-point average, setting a new record at the school.
His extraordinary GPA not only makes him the highest achiever among the 2,649 graduates in Newark's Class of 2023 but also sets a new record for the entire city public school district.
This outstanding accomplishment has led to Okafor receiving over 40 scholarship offers, including prestigious institutions such as Columbia, Cornell, Dartmouth, Duke, Princeton, Penn State, Stanford, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Southern California, and Rutgers.
Expressing his gratitude, Okafor 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 18-year-old prodigy has plans to pursue a neuroscience degree at Harvard University, an institution known for its academic excellence and rigor.
Science Park Principal Darlene Gearhart described Okafor as an extraordinary individual, highlighting his humility, drive, and industrious nature. She added, "He has always been a great kid, always eager to learn."
Superintendent of Schools Roger León expressed pride in Achunike's exceptional performance, emphasizing the significance of his achievements for Science Park High, the entire school district, and the Newark community. He stated, "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."
Achunike's father, Godfrey Okafor, also expressed immense pride in his son's accomplishments, emphasizing the family's high regard for education. He said, "We place a high premium on education in our home. Education, and continuing to learn in life, allows young people to provide for themselves and their families and build their future."
Godfrey Okafor further shared that his five other children, including two older sons and three daughters, are currently pursuing fields such as computer engineering, pharmacology, nursing, and law.
In addition to his academic achievements, Achunike was involved in various extracurricular activities at his school. He co-founded the Science Club, served as the vice president of the Junior Student Council and the Stand & Deliver Club, and held leadership positions as the president of the Future Educators Club and the Black Student Union. Furthermore, he contributed as the co-captain of the robotics team and the treasurer of the Environmental Club.