A desperate appeal for educational support by Nafisa, a young girl from Kwamo in Kumasi, has received timely intervention from Nhyira FM’s Obra Show and kind-hearted listeners.
Nafisa, the second-born of four siblings, initially came to the station claiming that her father had refused to fund her education. According to her, she was due to be in JHS 3 at a government school, but the headmistress refused to promote her, citing truancy.
Nafisa explained that her irregular attendance was due to ill health during that academic term. Despite her father’s plea with the headmistress, the school maintained its stance, insisting she remain in JHS 2 – a decision Nafisa disagreed with.
“I just want to go to school and prove myself,” Nafisa told the Obra team. “I know I can do better if I get the chance.”
Seeking another option, Nafisa tried enrolling in a private school, but the admission and school fees of ₵100 and ₵400 respectively became a stumbling block, as her father said he could not afford the cost while also catering for her siblings.
When the Obra team followed up at her former school, records revealed that Nafisa had placed 124th out of 125 students in examinations and had been irregular in attendance.
It was further observed that she was unhappy at the school due to constant mockery from her peers.
The Obra team proceeded to her new school, where she was sailed through an examination and acceptance. Speaking off record, the headmistress of the new school expressed optimism about Nafisa’s future, saying: “She will do well; all she needs is to sit up and prove her mother and the other students wrong.”
During the live program, the host announced that a listener had donated to support Nafisa’s education. The donor, who lives abroad, sent a message encouraging her not to give up: “I was once like you, but with determination I became the breadwinner of my family. Don’t give up, Nafisa.”
Meanwhile, Obra host Ohemaa expressed disappointment at Nafisa’s mother, describing her as careless. “How can a mother like you be reluctant about your child’s education? Even if you don’t have money, can’t you follow your child to seek help?” she asked, after the crew’s attempt to engage the mother was met with resistance.
Panelists also weighed in. Evangelist Degraft Addae urged Nafisa not to give up, saying: “You can make it without your mother. Don’t give up.” Lady Gold White encouraged her to ignore mockery from peers and focus on her future: “Today’s life is about you and you only. Forget what other students are saying and focus on your dreams.” She further pledged to support Nafisa as part of her birthday celebration.
Through the intervention of Obra and its listeners, Nafisa’s hope of continuing her education has been restored, offering her a chance to rewrite her story.
Source: Hannah Addae
