The Rastafarian student who almost missed the opportunity to enroll in Achimota School because of his hair Tyrone Mag has earned a full scholarship to study Computer Engineering at the University of Pennsylvania.
The scholarship worth $1.4 million will take care of his education in the United States of America for the next four years.
In a post shared via social media announcing this feat, Tyrone recalled the challenges he had to go through to get Senior High School Education at Achimota School after authorities in the school almost denied him an education because of his hair
I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve been awarded a full scholarship to pursue Computer Engineering at the University of Pennsylvania! Joining the class of 2028 as a proud Quaker, this incredible opportunity comes after carefully considering breathtaking offers from #upenn, #duke, #Williams, and #F&M, all totalling $1.4 million over the next four years! 🎉🎉
As I reflect on this journey, I’m reminded of the challenges and triumphs that marked the past three years, starting right from Achimota School. My story, which I like to call “The Tales from Achimota School,” began with a significant hurdle: a tough decision between keeping my Rastafarian dreadlocks, a symbol of my faith, and attending high school. With my father and an entire country’s support, we challenged the school’s rules, fighting for my right to education and freedom to express my identity.”
My fight for the right to wear my Rastafarian dreadlocks to school sparked a national and global debate on individual rights and education. Through national and global media appearances, I developed my voice, advocating for equality and tolerance. After a two-month court battle, I won! Paving the way for inclusive education and inspiring others to stand against discrimination.
I owe immense gratitude to my family, especially my father, Mr. Tereo Marhguy, for his relentless support and sacrifice. To my mother, Mrs. Dorcas Fremarhguy, and my amazing sisters, Amrita Marhguy and Nikita Marhguy, thank you for being my rock and my inspiration.
A heartfelt thank you goes to Mr. Ekow Aikins Jnr of Aikins Educational Consult, who not only prepared me for the SAT but coached me through the college application and also opened his home to me, ensuring I had the best environment to succeed. To Mr. Ferdinand Quayson (YAF Ghana), you spent endless nights working with me on all aspects of my college application making sure that I was able to effectively convey my story. And to Mr. Abel Ohene Acquaye, your mentorship and support were invaluable.
I also want to acknowledge the broader community of supporters from Child Rights International, Ghana, Mr. Bright Appiah, and my tireless lawyers, Esq. Nkrumah Gawuga James and Esq. Francis Ontonyin, Dr. Kwadwo Gyarteng-Darkwa to every individual and organization that stood by me. Your support, whether through media advocacy, legal counsel, or moral encouragement, has been the wind beneath my wings.
As I embark on this new chapter at the University of Pennsylvania, I carry with me the lessons of resilience, advocacy, and gratitude. This is just the beginning of a journey where I hope to continue making a difference, not only through my studies in engineering but also by keeping my beloved Ghana close to my heart.
