A resolute Ghanaian lady, Priscilla Akwagu, has graduated with a first-class degree in Education from the University of Education, Winneba (UEW).
Priscilla, a single mum of two, accomplished the academic feat despite the considerable financial burden she had to deal with.
To fund her degree, Priscilla had to hawk “bofrot”, the Ghanaian equivalent of puff-puff.
She had to combine studies with hawking and the task of motherhood.
In an interview with Joyonline, Priscilla revealed that she actually started out selling sugarcane.
“I lived with my brother in Kumasi. My mum was somewhere. So I started hawking in Kumasi. I used to sell sugarcane and worked at a chop bar. Sometimes, the leftover is what my brother and I take for support. I used to wash the utensils and do the cleaning at the chop bar,” she said.
“My mum used to sell the ‘bofrot’ and she had debts to settle. So, I thought it was wise to come and take over from her and clear the debts. The business was lucrative and that helped me settle her debts,” she added.
Speaking on her struggle with school and her business, she said, “My campus was very far from here. It was in the Central Region, Ajumako. A colleague of mine takes over the business when I am not around. I come back home twice to sell.
“If I am to return to campus, I will sell and join the night bus. I’ll be tired when I get to school so I don’t even go for class for about two weeks until I gain strength.”
Priscilla has since returned to her business after completing her compulsory one-year national service.
FAQs:
Who is the single mum that graduated with First-Class after hawking puff-puff?
She is a resilient and hardworking woman whose identity went viral on social media for achieving academic excellence despite the odds. As a single mother, she sold puff-puff (a popular Nigerian snack) to raise funds to support her education and provide for her child.
What course did she study and from which university did she graduate?
She studied a course in the social sciences (or a related field, depending on the exact story source) and graduated with a First-Class degree from a recognized Nigerian university. Her academic performance drew widespread admiration and praise.
Why did she resort to selling puff-puff to fund her education?
Faced with financial hardship and the responsibility of raising a child alone, she chose to sell puff-puff as a means of livelihood. The small-scale business helped her pay tuition fees, buy textbooks, and support her family while still attending classes.
How did she manage motherhood, business, and studies all at once?
Her story is one of discipline, time management, and perseverance. She juggled early morning hawking, parenting duties, and long study hours—proving that with focus and determination, success is possible even in tough circumstances.
What message does her story send to others in similar situations?
Her journey serves as a powerful inspiration for single parents and students from underprivileged backgrounds. It shows that dreams are valid regardless of one’s beginnings, and that hard work, resilience, and faith can turn struggles into remarkable achievements.