Nancy Agyeman Duah has turned a difficult financial background into an inspiring academic success story after graduating as the overall best student of Ho Technical University.
Duah completed her Bachelor of Technology degree in Hospitality Management with an impressive cumulative grade point average of 3.96 out of 4.00, placing her at the top of her graduating class.
Her achievement is particularly significant because of the modest circumstances in which she was raised. Her father worked as a mechanic, repairing vehicle engines, while her mother made a living selling sachet water. Despite the financial limitations facing the family, both parents remained committed to ensuring that their children received an education.
Duah’s journey began in Abuakwa in Ghana’s Ashanti Region, where she grew up in a household where every available resource had to be carefully managed.
As she advanced through her education, the increasing cost of schooling became a major concern for her family. University education brought additional expenses, including fees, accommodation, books and other academic requirements.
Rather than allowing those difficulties to derail her ambitions, Duah remained focused on her studies. Her parents also continued to encourage her, reassuring her that financial challenges should not prevent her from pursuing her dreams.
A major turning point came when she secured support through the MTN Bright Scholarship.
Duah reportedly discovered information about the scholarship through a group chat shared among friends. Encouraged by her brother-in-law, she applied for the programme and was eventually selected.
The scholarship provided much-needed relief at a crucial stage of her education. With some of the financial burden removed from her family, Duah was able to concentrate more fully on her academic work.
The MTN Bright Scholarship was introduced in 2017 to support brilliant but financially disadvantaged students pursuing tertiary education in Ghana. The programme provides assistance covering areas such as tuition, accommodation, learning materials and other educational needs.
For Duah, receiving the scholarship was more than simply obtaining financial assistance. It meant that her parents could breathe easier while she continued working towards her academic goals.
Her selection became an emotional moment for her family, particularly her mother, who reportedly reacted with thanksgiving and joy after learning that her daughter had received the scholarship.
The support ultimately contributed to an academic journey that ended with Duah being recognised as Ho Technical University’s overall best graduating student in November 2025.
Her 3.96 CGPA placed her among the institution’s outstanding graduates and brought considerable pride to her family.
Duah’s story demonstrates how academic excellence can emerge despite difficult financial circumstances when determination is combined with the right support system.
Her parents’ modest occupations did not prevent them from encouraging their daughter to pursue higher education, while the scholarship helped reduce the financial obstacles that could have affected her studies.
Following graduation, Duah has begun exploring entrepreneurship while also preparing for her next academic ambition. She has started a beauty business offering services including hair braiding and lash extensions and is reportedly considering a future career in law.
Her journey has also become an example for students who face financial difficulties while pursuing higher education. Her experience shows that limited resources do not necessarily have to determine the outcome of a student’s academic journey.
The MTN scholarship programme has supported more than 1,200 students across tertiary institutions in Ghana since its establishment, with beneficiaries studying at institutions including the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and the University of Ghana.
Some beneficiaries have gone on to record exceptional academic performances, including graduating as valedictorians or best students at their respective institutions.
For Nancy Agyeman Duah, however, the achievement represents both the reward for years of hard work and the beginning of a new chapter.
From growing up in a family supported by engine repairs and sachet-water sales to becoming the top graduating student at Ho Technical University, her story illustrates the impact of perseverance, parental encouragement and educational opportunity.
As she looks beyond university, Duah hopes her experience will encourage other young people from financially challenged homes to remain committed to their goals and take advantage of opportunities that can help them realise their potential.
