Uzor Arukwe Recalls His Mother’s Reaction After He Graduated With a Third-Class Degree in Economics

Nollywood actor Uzor Arukwe has revealed that he graduated with a third-class degree in Economics, admitting that his academic performance suffered because he was more focused on pursuing his passion for the performing arts.

Arukwe made the disclosure during an interview on the Tea with Tay podcast on Friday, October 9, 2026, where he reflected on his educational journey and his early determination to build a career in the entertainment industry.

The actor explained that his academic results were a source of disappointment for his mother, who feared how his father, an engineer, would react when he discovered that their son had graduated with a third-class degree.

According to Arukwe, his parents had expected him to take his education seriously and follow a more conventional career path. However, his interest in acting and other creative activities gradually took much of his attention away from his Economics studies.

He admitted that although he completed his university education, his final result fell below his family’s expectations, particularly his mother’s.

Speaking during the interview, the actor said his mother was worried about his father’s reaction when the family discovered his academic performance.

He said, “My first degree was in Economics. My mom was so upset; she felt my father was going to bring down the roof when they found out that my grades were not so good. I didn’t get a good grade—I don’t even want to say it, but it wasn’t a pass, it was a third class. That’s the honest first time I’ve actually ever admitted to it anywhere,” Arukwe said.

The actor’s admission provides a glimpse into the challenges he faced while trying to balance his academic responsibilities with his desire to pursue a career in entertainment.

During the same interview, Arukwe revealed that his passion for performing arts began in childhood, when he participated in singing, dancing and drama.

Despite his parents’ preference for a conventional career, he continued to nurture his creative interests while completing his education.

Watch the video from stamp time 10:47-11:00 HERE

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