There is a popular Ghanaian saying that goes, “The charcoal seller’s child will one day wear a white shirt,” often used to remind people that humble beginnings do not determine how far someone can go in life.

The proverb aptly reflects the story of Nancy Agyeman Duah, who, despite the financial challenges her family faced, has risen to become the Overall Best Graduating Student of Ho Technical University’s Class of 2025.

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According to a report by Graphic Online, Nancy, who grew up in humble circumstances in Abuakwa, did not allow her background to limit her ambitions.

Her father worked as a mechanic, while her mother sold sachet water. With the support of her parents and a scholarship that came “at the right time”, she remained focused on her education and pursued academic excellence.

She enrolled at Ho Technical University to pursue a Bachelor of Technology in Hospitality Management and graduated with a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 3.96 out of 4.0, the highest recorded at the university.

There were times when Nancy’s educational ambitions appeared difficult to achieve due to financial challenges. However, she said her parents encouraged her and helped ease her fears.

“My parents always encouraged me not to worry about finances but to trust that God would provide. Although the burden was heavy at times, I stayed committed to my studies,” she said.

By the time Nancy entered university, the financial pressure had increased. Her tuition and other expenses were a constant concern, while her parents, who were getting older, had limited means to support her tertiary education.

As fate would have it, Nancy heard about the MTN Bright Scholarship through a friend. The scholarship supports brilliant but needy students and, encouraged by her brother-in-law, she decided to apply.

She was subsequently selected, a moment Nancy described as one of the best moments of her life.

“Between my tears of joy and my mom’s screams of thanksgiving, I can truly say it was one of the best days for my family and me,” she said.

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With the financial burden eased by the scholarship, Nancy went on to graduate with top honours from the institution.

Beyond her academic achievement, Nancy has also ventured into the beauty industry, offering hair braiding and lash services.

MAG/MA

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