A Nigerian scholar, Abdulmalik Salman, has been recognised as the Most Outstanding Graduate in Secondary English Language Arts in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, College of Education, University of  Alabama, United States.

The honour was presented during the institution’s College of Education 2026 Honors Day, an annual event at which the college recognises graduating students with honours and those who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement within their departments.

Salman, a doctoral student in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialisation in literacy and language education in a recent interview described the recognition as both humbling and encouraging, saying it affirmed his journey as a scholar and educator.

“I saw it as a vote of confidence in my journey as a scholar and educator. It reminded me that the work we do, even when it feels challenging or unnoticed, can make an impact,” he said.

The scholar, who hails from Ejigbo in Osun State, earned his bachelor’s degree in Teacher Education and his master’s degree in Language Education from the University of Ibadan before proceeding to the United States for his doctoral studies.

Reflecting on his academic journey, Salman said the recognition represented years of commitment, perseverance and continuous learning, adding that it also came with a greater responsibility to contribute meaningfully to teaching, research and educational service.

“My work is driven by a desire to improve educational opportunities for learners from diverse backgrounds. While I am grateful for this recognition, I also see it as motivation to keep learning, keep serving, and keep pursuing work that can make a positive difference.”

His research focuses on literacy, language education, culturally relevant teaching, critical pedagogy and linguistic justice, with particular attention to how culturally and linguistically diverse learners experience education.

According to him, effective classrooms should recognise students’ languages, cultures and lived experiences as strengths rather than barriers to learning.
“Good-quality education is about giving every student the opportunity to succeed,” he said.

Beyond his academic work, Salman has held several leadership positions, including serving on the board of the Alabama-Mississippi Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (AMTESOL). He currently serves as co-chair of the Proposal Committee for the association’s 2027 conference.

Speaking on the growing influence of artificial intelligence in education, the Nigerian scholar said AI should be viewed as a tool to support, rather than replace, teachers.

“The future of education is not AI versus teachers; it is teachers using AI thoughtfully to improve learning.”

Offering advice to young Nigerians seeking postgraduate opportunities abroad, Salman urged them to remain intentional, build strong academic foundations, seek mentorship and remain persistent despite setbacks.

He also expressed confidence in the potential of Nigerian youth, saying they possess the talent and resilience to excel globally when given the right opportunities.

“I believe my journey reflects what many people already know about Nigerians. Nigerians are exceptionally talented, resilient, and hardworking. Given the right opportunities and supportive environments, we can thrive anywhere in the world,” he added.