Science Park High School in Newark, New Jersey, has honored Achunike Okafor, a remarkable Nigerian student, for his outstanding performance.
Okafor received an International Baccalaureate diploma from the school, boasting an extraordinary grade-point average of 4.625.
According to online newspaper TapIntoNewark, his GPA stands as the highest among the 2,649 graduates in the Class of 2023 in Newark and is the highest ever recorded in the city’s public school district. This achievement has garnered him over 40 scholarship offers from renowned universities, including Columbia, Cornell, Dartmouth, Duke, Princeton, Penn State, Stanford, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Southern California, and Rutgers.
Expressing his gratitude for the opportunities presented to him, Okafor stated, “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 plans to pursue a neuroscience degree at Harvard University.
Science Park principal Darlene Gearhart described Okafor as an extraordinary individual, highlighting his humility, drive, and industriousness. She stated, “There’s absolutely nothing average about him. He’s humble, driven, and industrious. He has always been a great kid. He is always eager to learn.”
Superintendent of Schools Roger León acknowledged Achunike’s exceptional achievements as a source of pride for Science Park High, the school district, and the Newark community. He commended Okafor’s perseverance, resilience, and dedication to excellence, expressing best wishes for his future success at Harvard and anticipating further accomplishments from him.
Achunike’s father, Godfrey Okafor, expressed the family’s pride in his son’s accomplishments, emphasizing the importance they place on education in their household. He shared that his five other children, including two older sons and three daughters, are currently pursuing studies in computer engineering, pharmacology, nursing, and law.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Achunike actively participated in various extracurricular activities. 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 president of the Future Educators Club and Black Student Union. Additionally, he contributed as co-captain of the robotics team and treasurer of the Environmental Club.