From Selling Body Splash in UDS Hostels to Best Female Graduating Student: The Story of Hamdia Issahaku

Hamdia Issahaku's journey from selling body splash in UDS hostels to graduating as the Best Female Student in Nursing exemplifies resilience and transformation. Born in Gambaga, North East Region, Hamidia lost her mother at a young age and later faced severe financial hardships when her father retired. After her brother's medical emergency, the family struggled to cover costs, leading Hamidia to seek ways to support herself.

Hawking body splash between hostels provided temporary relief but limited her academic performance. She applied for the Tisungtaba Scholarship but required more support. Dr Umar Haruna, then Vice Dean of Students at UDS, directed her to the MTN Bright Scholarship. The scholarship covered her tuition, accommodation, and provided a laptop and stipend, eliminating the need to hawk body splash. This marked the happiest day of her life, allowing her to focus fully on her studies.

After graduating from UDS, Hamidia completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and earned the title of Best Female Graduating Student. Currently, she is pursuing national service at Tema General Hospital, gaining invaluable practical experience. Simultaneously, she started a small beverage business, producing and selling Sobolo and Zomkom.

Hamidia credits the MTN Bright Scholarship for enabling her to focus on her education and achieve her dreams. Her story highlights the profound impact of the MTN Ghana Foundation's scholarship program, which has supported over 1,220 students across various tertiary institutions since 2017.