Munkaila Mohammed Ussif, who hails from an underserved community in the Gushiegu District, defied the odds stacked against him to be named the Best Graduating Student at the University for Development Studies (UDS) with an impressive Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.84. His inspiring journey, one marked by resilience and academic excellence, culminated in his delivery of the valedictory address at UDS’ 25th graduation ceremony, where he represented his peers in extending gratitude and inspiring hope for a bright future.

In his speech, Ussif paid homage to the UDS faculty, whose dedication, he said, played an instrumental role in shaping the minds and futures of graduates. "On behalf of my fellow graduates, I extend our sincerest gratitude to our esteemed lecturers," he stated. "Their mentorship has been pivotal in preparing us not only for the job market but also for the responsibilities we hold in society as leaders and change-makers. We are products of their unwavering commitment to excellence and their belief in our potential."

Coming from a deprived family, Ussif’s academic journey was marked by numerous challenges, yet he demonstrated a steadfast resolve to succeed. Growing up in Gushiegu in a community with limited resources and opportunities, he had to make personal sacrifices, often studying by lantern light or helping support his family financially. However, his determination to pursue education, which he saw as a pathway to a better future, fueled his ambition and carried him through his studies with distinction.

In recognition of Ussif's stellar academic achievements, the Member of Parliament for Gushiegu and Deputy Minister of Transport, Hon. Alhassan Tampuli, has pledged to sponsor Ussif’s postgraduate studies. "It is rare to see such resilience and excellence in the face of adversity," Hon. Tampuli remarked. "Munkaila has not only made his family and community proud but has also shown the entire nation what hard work and dedication can achieve. It is my honor to support his future studies in any field he chooses."

The MP’s support goes beyond just tuition sponsorship. As Ussif embarks on his next steps, he has been posted to complete his national service as a Teaching Assistant at the Faculty of Sustainable Development Studies. In recognition of his achievements and to ease his transition, Hon. Tampuli has also committed to covering Ussif’s accommodation in Tamale, where he will reside for his national service.

Additionally, in celebration of his accomplishments, Ussif has been offered an all-expenses-paid trip to Dubai, a gesture intended to reward him for his hard work and inspire him to continue pushing forward. "This is just the beginning for Munkaila," Hon. Tampuli added. "I hope that this small gesture will give him a chance to experience more of the world and bring back ideas that will help him in his future pursuits."

Reflecting on his journey, Ussif expressed deep appreciation for the support he received along the way. "It hasn’t been easy," he admitted. "But I was blessed with mentors, family, and friends who kept reminding me of why I started. I am deeply grateful to my family for their sacrifices, to my lecturers for their guidance, and to Hon. Tampuli for his overwhelming support. I am committed to using this education not just for personal gain, but to uplift others in my community."

As Ussif’s story spreads across the nation, his journey stands as a powerful testament to the impact of perseverance, academic excellence, and the transformative power of education. The future looks bright for Munkaila Mohammed Ussif, who has emerged as an inspiring symbol of hope for young people in Ghana’s underserved communities.

Story by:
Abdul Hayi Moomen
(UDS Media)