Why academic potential isn’t defined by a 2:1 — and how we can rewrite the script.
script.
Across many African universities, students graduating with a Second Class Lower or Third Class are often quickly dismissed. They’re seen as not scholarship-worthy, unfit for competitive internships, and underqualified for high-impact fellowships or jobs.
But here’s the truth: grades don’t always tell the full story.
In lecture halls, dorm rooms, and quiet study corners across the continent, countless students wrestle with invisible battles, battles that do not show up on a transcript.
When Grades Don’t Reflect Potential
For many students, academic performance isn’t just a measure of intelligence or commitment. It’s often a byproduct of:
- Financial pressure: working part-time jobs or hustling to pay tuition
- Limited access: lack of laptops, internet, or relevant study materials
- Mental health struggles: stress, anxiety, or undiagnosed conditions
- Family responsibilities: caring for siblings, sick parents, or managing a household
Despite these real-life obstacles, systems continue to limit opportunities by using academic success as the sole filter.
And this is where we lose something significant—not just numbers, but human potential.
The Problem With GPA Gatekeeping
When organizations, scholarship boards, and employers fixate solely on grade cutoffs, they unintentionally reinforce inequality.
A student with a 2:2 but a powerful story of resilience is often more resourceful, determined, and adaptable than one who aced their exams without barriers. Yet only one gets the call.
This mindset doesn’t just limit access; it limits innovation. Because talent doesn’t live exclusively in top GPAs—it lives in grit, growth, and goals.
How Tiptoptify Is Changing the Script
At Tiptoptify, we recognize that potential isn’t always reflected in academic transcripts. That’s why we’re building support systems that go beyond grades:
- Our scholarship initiative provides tuition waivers and mentorship for students with low GPAs who are struggling financially—because we believe they deserve to be seen, supported, and given a second chance.
- Through skill-based accelerator programs, we equip students with practical digital skills, AI literacy, and career-readiness tools—helping them become competitive beyond academics.
- And with our community of mentors and peers, we create space for overlooked students to grow with confidence, creativity, and a sense of belonging. Click to learn more about our scholarship programs.
“We don’t ask, “What’s your CGPA?”
“We ask, “What’s your capacity?”
The Future of Talent Is Holistic
If we want to build a future that’s more inclusive, resilient, and innovative, we need to rethink how we define potential.
Instead of asking:
“What was your grade?”
Let’s ask:
“What did you overcome?”
“What skills are you learning?”
“Where do you want to grow?”
It’s time we expanded our lens to include the brilliant minds that exist outside the 4.0 GPA. Because true impact isn’t made by those with perfect transcripts—but by those with purpose.
Final Thoughts
Academic records matter. But they are just one piece of the story.
Let’s open more doors, not just for the high achievers, but for the hidden ones. The ones who were never average, just underestimated.
The cost of ignoring them is too high. And the world needs what they have to offer.
