Meet Dr Emmanuel Ahmadu: From 17 WASSCE attempts to leading a global mental health tour
Dr Emmanuel Ahmadu, a remarkable Nigerian graduate who faced and overcame extraordinary challenges, is set to lead the “Resilience Rise” Mental Health Awareness Tour across Northeast Ohio in the United States.
Ahmadu, who famously wrote the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) an astounding 17 times, is now turning his personal story of resilience into a beacon of hope for students across the region.
The tour, organised in collaboration with Triumphators LLC and supported by local educational stakeholders and the U.S. Department of Education, aims to tackle the growing mental health crisis among students. Ahmadu’s initiative will visit high schools and colleges, providing young people with the tools and inspiration they need to overcome personal challenges and achieve both academic and personal success.
Speaking about his motivation, Ahmadu reflected on his tumultuous journey. Despite attending 16 different primary schools and 14 secondary schools, and sitting for O’level exams 17 times, he persevered to earn a degree in Mass Communication from the University of Benin, where he graduated as an outstanding student.
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“My story is a testament to the power of resilience,” Ahmadu said. “Through the ‘Resilience Rise’ tour, I hope to instill this same spirit in the next generation of leaders and achievers. We want to ensure that students are equipped with mental resilience, supportive networks, and access to community resources.”
The tour is particularly timely, given that nearly one in five students in Ohio report persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness, with suicide being the second leading cause of death among Ohioans aged 10-24. Ahmadu’s efforts are backed by a dedicated team of educators, mental health professionals, and young advocates, all committed to making a difference in the lives of these students.
Ahmadu’s collaboration with Triumphators LLC, an organization based in Garfield Heights dedicated to empowering women and girls who have experienced trauma, further amplifies the impact of the tour. Coach Tonya Maxwell, CEO of Triumphators LLC, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “Partnering with him allows us to extend our reach and impact. His dedication to mental health awareness aligns perfectly with our vision.”
As the tour progresses, there are plans to expand it statewide and eventually across the entire United States, aiming to make a national impact on mental health awareness and resilience-building among students.
Dr Emmanuel Ahmadu’s journey from overcoming severe educational setbacks to becoming a global mental health advocate is an inspiring example of resilience and determination. His work is already receiving international recognition, including an honorary Doctorate Degree in International Affairs from Global Seminary University, New York, and a prestigious award as a Global Mental Health Advocate by the Marquis Who’s Who 2024 in America.
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