Rejected Achimota School 'rasta student' graduates from GIS
One of two Rastafarian students involved in the Achimota School admission saga in 2021, Oheneba Nkrabia, has graduated from the Ghana International School (GIS.
His graduation follows a widely publicised legal and social battle over his right to education while wearing dreadlocks as part of his religious identity.
In 2021, Oheneba was denied admission to Achimota School because of his dreadlocks, which he wears in accordance with his Rastafarian faith.
The case sparked national debate about religious freedom, discrimination, and access to education in Ghana.
Following the controversy, Oheneba was awarded a scholarship to GIS through the Article 17 Education Trust Foundation.
Speaking at the recent GIS graduation ceremony, the school’s CEO, Dr Mary Asabia Eshon, described Oheneba’s graduation as a proud moment.
In a video posted by CitiFM97.3 on X on July 3, 2025, she emphasised that his story was a reminder of the need to uphold equality regardless of one’s religion.
"At GIS, we have understanding of each other, and we accept everyone,” she stated.
Dr Eshon explained that Oheneba’s admission to GIS was made possible through the efforts of four individuals: Teuya Ado Ashong, Ekuya Owusunate, Julia Selman Ayite, and William Hackman.
These individuals helped establish the Article 17 Education Trust Foundation, named after Article 17 of Ghana’s Constitution, which guarantees equality and freedom from discrimination.
“We have watched this young man grow and we have been so privileged to be a part of his story here at GIS,” Dr Eshon said.
She invited Hackman, one of the trust's founders, to assist in robing Oheneba during the ceremony and also acknowledged Oheneba’s family for their support.
Oheneba’s graduation has been widely celebrated as a victory for inclusion and a reaffirmation of constitutional rights.
His journey through adversity to academic success is being hailed as a symbol of resilience and the importance of standing up against discrimination in all its forms.
Meanwhile, watch as woman who told ‘kidnappers’ to kill her brother expresses regret