Meet the First Female PhD in Mathematics from the University of Ghana
My name is Gloria Agyeiwaa Antwi Botchway. I am a product of God’s grace and hard work. I stand before you today as a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and God’s grace. My journey to becoming the first female PhD Mathematics graduate from the University of Ghana is a story of triumph over adversity, of hope in the face of despair, and of the unbreakable human spirit.
Born into a humble family, I knew firsthand the struggles of poverty and uncertainty. But my parents, Mr. Antwi and Mama Maggie instilled in me a love for learning and a refusal to accept limitations. When my mom pursued her education, I was left with relatives and had to hawk goods on the streets of Teshie at just six years old. But in those difficult moments, I discovered a spark within me – a spark that would ignite a fire of passion and purpose.
Despite the challenges, I persevered, fueled by a dream to rise above my circumstances. I remembered the words of my elective Maths teacher, who prophesied that I would become a Mathematics lecturer. I laughed it off then, but little did I know that God was orchestrating my steps towards greatness.
As I navigated the ups and downs of life, I learned valuable lessons:
- Making God first in your affairs must be a priority. Without him, we are nothing and we can do nothing.
- That our environment does not define us; it shapes us for what’s ahead.
- That our past should not cage us, but rather empower us to soar.
- That with determination and hard work, nothing is impossible.
- That family and love can be both a source of strength and a challenge to overcome.
- That grace and mercy can carry us through even the darkest of times.
Today, I stand as a beacon of hope for anyone who feels trapped, marginalized, or limited. I am living proof that you can rise above your circumstances and that you can achieve greatness despite the odds. My story is not just about me; it’s about the countless individuals who have supported me along the way – my family, teachers, mentors, and friends. Thanks also to the UG Carnegie NGAA and The BANGA Africa Project for their massive financial support throughout my journey. I cannot go on without mentioning the University of Ghana, Legon and the Department of Mathematics, who provided a very conducive environment for me to thrive.
As I celebrate this milestone, I want to leave you with a challenge: embrace your struggles, for they are the catalysts for growth. Believe in yourself, even when no one else does. And never, ever give up on your dreams.
I am Gloria Agyeiwaa Antwi Botchway and my story continues – I am unstoppable.
