In a story of resilience and determination, Rebecca Oppong has emerged as the valedictorian of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), overcoming a challenging start with a D in Core Mathematics at her West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). The young scholar’s journey from academic struggle to academic excellence has captured the attention of the nation, earning her accolades as the Best Graduating Student for both her diploma and degree programs.
Oppong’s achievement was celebrated in a series of posts on X earlier today, where she shared images from her graduation ceremony and a list of academic awards. The list, proudly displayed by UPSA, highlighted her as the Overall Best Graduating Diploma Student and the top performer in her degree program within the Faculty of Information Technology & Communication Studies. Her success story, accompanied by a photo of her delivering a valedictory address, has sparked widespread admiration online, with users like @mikeackon and @malisecullen offering congratulations and calling her an inspiration.
A Turnaround Against the Odds
Oppong’s journey began with a humble D in Core Mathematics at WASSCE, a grade that once seemed to cast doubt on her academic future. However, her story aligns with recent educational trends in Ghana. According to the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), the 2024 WASSCE recorded a 66.86% pass rate in Core Mathematics (grades A1 to C6), the highest in four years, indicating that many students, like Oppong, face early challenges but can overcome them with perseverance. Her transformation challenges the notion that early setbacks predetermine success, a narrative further supported by the 2023 WASSCE International Excellence Awards, which recognized students who defied similar odds.
At UPSA, Oppong’s dual recognition as the best graduating student at both diploma and degree levels underscores her consistent excellence. This feat echoes the success of musician Rebecca Acheampong (known as Becca), who graduated as valedictorian with a 3.92 CGPA in 2022, suggesting a culture of high achievement among UPSA graduates. Oppong’s awards, sponsored by entities like Stanbic Bank and Forbes Digital, reflect the university’s reputation for producing top-tier professionals.
A Testament to Resilience and Support
In her X post, Oppong attributed her success to divine intervention, stating, “This can only be God ❤️.” Her story highlights the potential impact of personal determination coupled with institutional support. UPSA’s rigorous academic requirements, as outlined in its graduation regulations, demand regular enrollment, fulfillment of credit requirements, and confirmation by the Academic Board—standards Oppong clearly met with distinction.
The news of her achievement comes as female students continue to shine at UPSA. Web data from upsa.edu.gh reveals that in the 2022/2023 academic year, women claimed 25 of the 39 academic prizes, with Oppong adding to this legacy in 2025. Her success serves as a beacon for aspiring students, particularly those who face early academic hurdles.