In a heartfelt visit to her alma mater, Ghana National College, Dr. Rosemond Aboagye shared her remarkable life story on Friday, July 19, inspiring current students with her journey from humble beginnings to becoming Ghana’s first and only pediatric radiologist.
Dr. Aboagye, the eldest of five siblings, grew up in the impoverished neighborhood of Korle Gonno. Her journey began at the tender age of seven when she started selling kenkey (a traditional Ghanaian dish) to help support her family. Against all odds, she persevered through adversity, eventually gaining admission to the University of Ghana Medical School, where she earned her degree in medicine.
Now a senior specialist at Ridge Hospital in Accra and the CEO of Rand Medical Imaging and Health Systems, located at Adam Nana Junction in Kasoa, Dr. Aboagye’s achievements serve as a beacon of hope for many. During her visit, she recounted her struggles, including a time when financial hardships forced her away from school and made her rely on seed yams meant for planting to survive. Her family’s discouragement did little to deter her spirit; she resolved that her current circumstances would not dictate her future.
“I wanted to show my family and society that even in the depths of poverty, one can rise with determination and hard work,” Dr. Aboagye stated, as some students listened in captivated silence.
Her emotional recounting resonated deeply with both students and staff at the Ghana National College, many of whom expressed their awe at her resilience. Goosebumps spread through the audience as they realized her struggles mirrored their own, serving as a reminder that success is achievable through perseverance and grit.
Dr. Aboagye has also shared her story with various schools, including Ngleshie Amanfro SHS, Senya SHS, Fettehman SHS, Accra Academy SHS, Potsin T.I. Amass SHS, Christian Methodist SHS, and Odupong SHS, making an impact far beyond her own educational institution.
Reflecting on her days as a student, Dr. Aboagye shared poignant memories from her batch in 1999, including her struggles with basic necessities like food and soap. She often relied on friends for meals and even scavenged for soap to take home for her mother, highlighting the grave realities faced by many students in similar situations.
Among the attendees was Paa Kwesi Asare, a broadcast journalist from TV3 and a fellow alumni from the 2004 batch. His presence exemplified the power of shared experiences, as he too had faced challenges during his own educational journey.
As Dr. Aboagye concluded her visit, she left the students of Ghana National College with an empowering message: “No matter where you start, or how difficult the path may seem, your dreams and aspirations are valid. Believe in yourself and work hard. Your future is in your hands.”
Godwin Owusu Frimpong
