UDS graduate working as head porter gets second chance to return to University

The story of Salamatu Haruna, a University for Development Studies (UDS) diploma graduate who resorted to kayayei work in Accra to survive, has taken a positive turn after she secured an opportunity to return to the university.

Ms Haruna’s plight recently attracted widespread public attention after her story went viral, prompting the Vice-Chancellor of UDS, Prof. Mohammed Muniru Iddrisu, to initiate efforts to locate and support her.

Through the intervention of Prof. Sanatu Mustapha Alidu, Ms Haruna has now secured admission to return to UDS and pursue further studies.

The university has also arranged financial support covering her tuition and accommodation for the first year, easing the immediate financial pressure associated with her return to school.

While awaiting the reopening of the university, Ms Haruna has also been offered a decent part-time job to enable her to earn an income.

Prof. Iddrisu has assured her of further support through the university’s No-Fees-Stress policy and the Students Financial Aid Scheme when academic activities resume.

The development marks a major shift in circumstances for Ms Haruna, who had been forced to engage in kayayei work in Accra despite having obtained a diploma from UDS.

Her story has also highlighted the difficulties confronting some young graduates who, despite acquiring tertiary education, struggle to secure sustainable employment and improve their livelihoods.

What began as a story of a graduate battling to survive has therefore turned into one of renewed hope, with timely intervention creating another opportunity for Ms Haruna to continue her education and pursue her aspirations.

Her experience further underscores the impact that timely support and collective intervention can have when financial hardship threatens to derail a person’s educational journey.