Daughter of a Mechanic and Pure Water Seller Graduates with 3.96 CGPA as University’s Best Student

When Nancy Agyeman Duah was announced as the Overall Best Graduating Student of Ho Technical University’s 2025 graduating class, it marked the beginning of a celebration years in the making. Behind her outstanding achievement stood two hardworking parents whose modest occupations funded a dream they refused to abandon.

Nancy earned a Bachelor of Technology in Hospitality Management and graduated with a 3.96 CGPA out of 4.00, the highest academic record in the university.

Raised by hard work and sacrifice

Nancy grew up in Abuakwa, in Ghana’s Ashanti Region, where life revolved around honest labor. Her father repaired vehicles as a mechanic, while her mother earned a living selling sachet (“pure”) water.

Although their income was limited, they remained committed to ensuring their daughter received a quality education. As Nancy advanced through school, however, the financial demands became increasingly difficult, especially when she entered university.

With tuition, accommodation, and learning expenses mounting, her aging parents struggled to shoulder the burden. Yet Nancy remained focused on one goal: excelling academically despite the challenges around her.

“Even when things became difficult financially, I stayed committed to my studies,” she shared.

The scholarship that changed everything

Nancy discovered the MTN Bright Scholarship through a friend’s group chat, and with encouragement from her brother-in-law, she submitted an application.

Receiving the acceptance message became one of the most emotional moments her family had ever experienced.

“Between my tears of joy and my mother’s screams of thanksgiving, it became one of the happiest days of our lives.”

More than paying school bills, the scholarship lifted a heavy emotional and financial weight from her family. It allowed Nancy to devote her energy to learning instead of worrying about how each semester’s fees would be paid.

She describes the opportunity as a bridge between her potential and the future she dreamed of.

Finishing first in her university

By the time she graduated in November 2025, Nancy had achieved what once seemed nearly impossible. The young woman whose education had been threatened by financial hardship emerged as the best graduating student in her institution.

Her success became a proud victory not only for herself but also for the parents whose daily work with engine grease and pure water sales kept her educational journey alive.

Life after graduation

Nancy has continued building her future through entrepreneurship by running a beauty business specializing in hair braiding and lash services. While growing the business, she is also preparing for her next academic ambition: studying Law.

She hopes her journey will inspire young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to believe that difficult circumstances do not have to determine their destination.

“My story reminds young people in my community that determination, excellence, and the right support can make even the biggest dreams possible.”

About the MTN Bright Scholarship

The MTN Bright Scholarship, introduced in 2017, provides educational support to brilliant but financially disadvantaged tertiary students across Ghana. The programme covers tuition, accommodation, a laptop, and stipends for books and other study materials.

Since its inception, it has supported 1,220 students across 18 tertiary institutions, including universities, colleges of education, and health training institutions.

Its impact has also been reflected in academic excellence, with hundreds of beneficiaries graduating with first-class honours and several emerging as valedictorians and overall best graduating students.