Tanor Hayford recounts how his appearance denied him education
But for 23-year-old Tanor Hayford, his physical appearance became an unexpected obstacle, exposing him to prejudice, misunderstanding and barriers that threatened his dream of getting an education.
For Tanor Hayford, his physical appearance became an unexpected barrier to education. After completing primary school, he was denied entry to junior high school by the headmaster who refused to admit him. Tanor, now 23, recounted his experience on Joy Prime’s Changes with Nikki Samonas. Growing up, his appearance was typical but changed over time, causing fear among his peers.
School authorities ultimately refused to enroll him in junior high school, ending his education journey abruptly. Despite repeated rejections from various schools, Tanor remained determined. He sought help from his father, who took him to a disability school in Kumasi but was rejected due to the headmaster's fear of losing his job.
Tanor eventually found acceptance at a Presbyterian school after providing a report from his previous school. The rejection and stigma he faced in his community left him deeply affected, prompting his father to shield him from seeing his former classmates. Tanor, despite his challenges, remains hopeful for a career in acting and running a provision shop for his parents.
He urges support from benevolent individuals and philanthropists, accepting donations via Mobile Money or a phone call.
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.