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Eliasu Yahaya Bansi, a graduate of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), has shared his remarkable journey from hardship to academic excellence. The BSc Real Estate student emerged as the best-graduating student at the 58th congregation of the College of Arts and Built Environment, achieving an impressive Cumulative Weighted Average (CWA) of 81.04.
As the first in his family to attend university, Eliasu faced immense challenges, including financial instability. Hailing from Bawku, he often lacked the resources to fund his education. To make ends meet, Eliasu worked as an illegal miner, or galamseyer, in the Western Region during vacations.
However, a tragic incident involving the loss of his friend, Abubakar, during an escape from mining authorities, changed his perspective. “With sadness, I remember my friend who lost his life. I hate galamsey, but had it not been for that, I wouldn’t have been here today,” he reflected.
Following this life-altering event, Eliasu gave up illegal mining, a decision supported by his siblings. His struggle caught the attention of friends, lecturers, and well-wishers who stepped in to help.
Eliasu credited individuals like Zinzi, who paid his fees during a critical moment, and others such as Andras Benewaa, Vicentia Gyamfi, and Mr. Gilbert Langu, the college counselor, who supported him with food supplies and other essentials.
In his valedictory speech, Eliasu urged KNUST to assist students facing similar challenges, emphasizing the importance of supporting underprivileged individuals to reach their potential.
The College of Arts and Built Environment graduated 2,003 students this year, comprising 1,237 males and 766 females. Eliasu’s story stands as a beacon of hope and resilience, inspiring many to persevere through adversity.
