CHAPTER 11 : Khalid's Crossroads

​The WAEC results were finally released, but Khalid's enthusiasm was tempered by his disappointing performance in English Language, a requisite subject for university admission. The pervasive failure in English and Mathematics among his schoolmates offered little solace, although Khalid's exceptional prowess in Mathematics provided a glimmer of hope. Undeterred by this setback, Khalid steeled himself for the forthcoming NECO examination, recognizing that a stellar performance was imperative to salvage his academic prospects. Meanwhile, Xeenat's affections for Khalid had become increasingly apparent, her subtle overtures and suggestive comments leaving little doubt about her romantic intentions. Khalid, having harbored similar feelings for Xeenat, finally mustered the courage to express his emotions in a heartfelt note. Xeenat's response was immediate and unequivocal, as she acknowledged his declaration with alacrity. Their inaugural meeting was a resounding success, with both parties reveling in each other's company. As their romance blossomed, they began to contemplate a future together, tentatively planning to tie the knot within four years, coinciding with Khalid's anticipated graduation. Sayyad, Khalid's father, pragmatically suggested that his son consider pursuing a diploma course as a fallback option, should his university aspirations falter. However, Khalid remained resolute in his determination to pursue a degree in Accounting, his sights firmly set on becoming a chartered accountant. The release of the JAMB results proved to be a source of consternation for Khalid, as two of his scores were withheld due to the earlier thumbprint verification issue. Sayyad, sensing his son's distress, promptly intervened, directing Khalid to accompany him to the JAMB headquarters in Abuja. Following a fervent appeal, the JAMB officials assured Sayyad that they would expedite the resolution of Khalid's issue. Six days later, Khalid received a correspondence from the JAMB office, informing him that his results were now available online. With bated breath, Khalid hastened to the nearest cybercafe, where he was relieved to discover that he had scored impressively, surpassing the requisite marks. Elated by this news, Khalid promptly notified his father, who shared in his son's jubilation. As Khalid eagerly awaited the release of his NECO results, he remained cautiously optimistic, recognizing that his academic fate still hung in the balance. Sayyad, seeking to mitigate any potential risks, endeavored to secure a provisional admission undertaking from the university, pending the release of Khalid's NECO results. Although the university authorities assured Sayyad that Khalid's admission was all but certain, they emphasized that English Language proficiency was non-negotiable, implying that Khalid's academic prospects would be jeopardized if he failed to secure a passing grade in NECO. Two months elapsed before the admission list was released, and Khalid's perseverance was rewarded as he secured a spot in the Accounting department. His relationship with Xeenat continued to flourish, with their bond growing stronger with each passing day. Their romance had become increasingly apparent to those around them, and it seemed as though their love was destined to conquer all. Sayyad informed Khalid that he would arrive the following week to accompany him to the school, where they would attempt to secure clearance pending the release of his NECO results. Khalid's anticipation was palpable as he eagerly awaited his father's arrival. Fate had it that the NECO results were released on the very day Khalid arrived at the school with his father. However, their jubilation was short-lived, as they soon discovered that Khalid was still missing a credit in English Language. The news sent Khalid into a state of distress, his body temperature soaring as he struggled to come to terms with the setback. ​Sayyad's words of wisdom served as a balm to Khalid's frazzled nerves: "Have you forgotten that the Prophet (PBUH) said, 'If Allah loves His servant, He tests him'? Who says this is the end? Your friends may think you're a full- fledged undergraduate, but little do they know you're still navigating the clearance process." Sayyad's chance encounter with an old friend who worked at the institution proved to be a blessing in disguise. The friend revealed that the only viable option was for Khalid to wait another year and retake the English Language exam, as the window for undertaking had been closed due to unresolved issues. However, Sayyad's friend was determined to find an alternative solution. "Why not enroll him in a diploma program under our consultancy unit?" he suggested. "That way, he can stay in the system instead of returning home without doing anything." Khalid's eyes lit up at the prospect, and he accepted the offer without hesitation. Sayyad was overjoyed by this turn of events and promptly transferred some funds to Khalid's account for registration and other expenses. As Sayyad prepared to return to Abuja, he left Khalid in the capable hands of his friend, who assured him that he would handle the admission process seamlessly. One year had elapsed since Khalid embarked on his academic odyssey, and his perseverance had yielded remarkable dividends. He had emerged as the paradigm of academic excellence, boasting the highest Cumulative Grade Point Average (C.G.P.A) among his peers. Their coordinator had kindled their hopes by promising automatic admission into the 200-level program for students who graduated with credits and above. This tantalizing prospect had instilled in Khalid an unwavering confidence in his academic prowess.