College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science Students Tie the Knot

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Two postgraduate students in the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science (CAES) got married recently after meeting in 2013 through mutual friends and fellow students, and enjoying a common passion for the scientific fields in which they are studying.

Ms Olufunke Fajinmi, a postgraduate student in the School of Life Sciences, met Mr Olaoluwa Olarewaju Omoniyi, a postgraduate student in the School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences (SAEES), through a mutual friend in 2013.

It all began during Fajinmi’s postgraduate studies at UKZN when she shared some of the challenges she was facing with her friend and neighbour, who suggested she meet a colleague in SAEES who was doing similar research.

‘At first, I was sceptical because I had been determined not to mingle with men during my studies!’ said Fajinmi. However, her friend persevered and set a time to introduce Fajinmi to Omoniyi.

The two, both from Nigeria, hit it off immediately, with their common interest in the fields of Horticultural Sciences and Botany helping them form a bond as they supported one another through their research and the challenges of being international students.

‘Olarewaju was a source of encouragement while I was waiting for the outcome of the extension of my study permit I had applied for, which was taking longer than expected,’ said Fajinmi.

He proposed on the eve of Fajinmi’s birthday in 2014.

The couple, who live in Pietermaritzburg, are both still completing their studies. ‘Thanks to her, during the time I was completing the thesis for my Masters degree, I didn’t go hungry!’ said Omoniyi.

Fajinmi says they have brought out the best in one another, with their individual relationships with friends and family and God being enhanced by their union.

‘Olufunke is unlike any other person I have ever met,’ said Omoniyi. ‘She’s so loving, caring, humble, gorgeous, beautiful, kind, smart, and intelligent - in fact, she’s out of this world.’

Symbolic of the role that UKZN played in their union, the couple held their reception at the Colin Webb Hall on Pietermaritzburg’s main campus. Members of their bridal party included friends and classmates who have played a role in both their academic and personal journeys.