Occupational therapy occupies this Nigerian

A federal constitutional republic, Nigeria is located in western Africa with borders stretched besides Republic of Benin in the west, Chad and Cameroon in the east and Niger in the north. The country is nestled in between Gulf of Guinea and Atlantic Ocean on its south.

Nigeria is the seventh largest country in the world and is roughly split between Muslims and Christians along with three most influential ethnic groups like Hausa, Lgbo and Yoruba. The name Nigeria was carved from Niger River running across the country. There are as many as 510 living languages. Archaeological evidence shows that human existence dates back to 9000 BC in the country.

A federal republic modelled after United States, the executive power lies in the hands of the President in Nigeria. It is a bicameral legislature. However, tribalism, ethnocentrism, religious prosecutions have played an important role in the Nigerian politics before andafter independence.

Olosunde Oluwatoyin from the land of extremes that reflects both greater wealth on one side and deep poverty on the other, is in India to study Bachelors in Occupational Therapy in Manipal College of Allied Health Sciences (MCOAHS). She is here since two years and speaks her heart out sharing her experiences with City Herald. Excerpts of the interview…

Why did you prefer coming India for your studies? 

I did not have any basic idea of the country where I would pursue my higher studies. However, I was determined to do bachelors. My school principal, where I did my diploma in Occupational Therapy was an Indian. She helped me to get a seat in Manipal.

Tells us something about the educational quality and the educational expenses here when compared to Nigeria?  

When compared to Nigeria, the expenses are some what similar. If I had gone to US, then obviously I had to pay more than what I am paying now. Education standard is good.

What are your experiences here?    

I had good experiences. India is wonderful. I feel India is the better option for me. In India, there are hard working and strong-minded people.

How do you find the culture over here?

It is totally different from Nigeria. I come across many new things. Parents here do care more about their children which according to me hampers the growth of individualism among children. The most liked aspect back at home is that children are trained right from the beginning in a way to be independent and look after themselves. Even I liked Indian culture and family system. Indian economy matches with Nigerian economy.

Did you like Indian food?  

Indian food is different. I knew it earlier. I was prepared to face the problem with food as I knew that I am going to a place far way from my home. I slowly got adjusted to it. Now I like idli, biriyani and parota very much.

Do you like sari?        

I like sari and I wear it. It was nice experience. I don’t like salwars.

Did you find any difficulties here?            

Absolutely no. People in the department and college make me feel at home. Language is not a problem as people here know English.

Which places did you visit?

I have visited only Goa and I liked it.

Do you watch Indian movies?

I only watch Indian movies back at home. I liked “Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gum”. I have seen it four to five times. It is wonderful. Most of the Indian movies show the culture and family system practiced in India.

What are your future plans?

I want to finish one year education here and go back home. I have plans of higher education, but not immediately.

Would you like to advise India for your friends?

Surely, but only to those who are hard working and committed. Academic demand is really high and quality of service good. It is hard to reach the expectations, if you are not firm with your goal. One has to be independent and dedicated. India is a beautiful place to live.