A graduate of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Magdalene Mawugbe, has been selected as a 2024 Rhodes Scholar for West Africa.
The Rhodes Scholarship is a prestigious international scholarship that allows exceptional students from around the world to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford.
As a young graduate with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Disability and Rehabilitation Studies, Magdalene is passionate about research in mental health among the Deaf population in Ghana and how accessibility to mental health could be improved for people in this space. She believes with the advancement of technology, the Deaf population could receive much assistance in fighting mental health challenges.
The Rhodes National Secretary for West Africa, Mr. Ike Chioke disclosed that Magdalene came first amongst the top 3 selected finalists shortlisted from 3,214 applications received this year for the 2024 scholarship.
Sharing her excitements, Magdalene said she was very grateful to the organisers for such an opportunity and also indicated gratitude for the prayers and support she got from her family and friends throughout the selection process.
“I’m super excited about this great achievement and would like to appreciate the organisers for such an opportunity given to us to study and give back to our society. For the prayers and support from my family and friends throughout this journey, I say God bless you all.”
Out of the total number of applications received, a selection committee reviewed 142 of the applications which they found qualified to proceed for consideration having met all the eligibility criteria. The committee upon review whittled the applications down to 54 and then further to 27. The 27 Shortlisted candidates were then interviewed virtually following which the Committee arrived at a 14 Finalists for the final round selection process for which 3 Finalists, including Magdalene Mawugbe (Ghana), Ewerechukwu Asaka (Nigeria) and Ayomikun Ayodeji (Nigeria) were announced as 2024 West Africa Rhodes Scholars on Saturday, November 11, 2023 at the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra.
The scholarship programme is a highly competitive one that seeks to identify individuals with outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Scholars are provided with financial support, mentorship, and a platform to further their education and contribute to their chosen fields. It’s an incredible opportunity for personal and intellectual growth.
As a 2024 Rhodes Scholar, Magdalene will begin a fully funded postgraduate studies at Oxford University in the U.K next fall.