Identical twins who travelled from Europe via Africa to study in Sunderland have had “twice the fun” at University and given the family a double cause for celebration after they both graduated.
Magnus and Evans Okoh, 22, originally from Nigeria donned the gowns and mortarboards to celebrate graduating from the University of Sunderland at the Stadium of Light today (Friday, July 11).
However, is not just their looks that ties the two brothers; they both studied the same course, Physiological Sciences, and have been a source of motivation and acted as mentors to each other throughout their three years in Sunderland.
The twins, who moved from Nigeria to Austria aged 13, have graduated with a first class degree and a 2:1 degree and are now looking at possible further education at the University.
Despite basing themselves in Wearside now and working at the Stadium of Light on match days while studying, the pair were born and lived in Benin City, Nigeria until they were 13 before moving to Innsbruck in Austria. They were both blown away the facilities and opportunities on offer at Sunderland and jumped at the chance to study there.
Evans said: “As soon as I knew what was on offer in Sunderland it was somewhere that I wanted to go. I have learned so much in the past three years, met so many amazing people from different backgrounds.
“I have met so many great different students and lecturers it has been enjoyable from start to finish. I know how hard everyone works, and this, along with my brother has motivated me throughout the past three years.”
Magnus added: “I have learned so much since studying at Sunderland and I’ve made so many friends, and great staff members. I have been taught so much and gained so many life skills, the university staff have also been very supportive and met some truly amazing individuals and thanks to Evans I’ve had double the fun throughout.”