Name: Leticia Naa Adu Darko
Email: l.darko@alumni.alueducation.com.
Course of study: Computer science
Year of graduation: 2024
School: African Leadership University, Rwanda.
Country of origin: Ghana
Gender: Female
Profile: As a passionate educator and advocate for inclusive education, I’ve embarked on a journey to transform basic education in Ghana—one that my own experiences have deeply influenced. As a Mastercard Foundation scholar, I graduated with first-class honours in Computer Science from the African Leadership University, where my academic journey was fueled not just by a desire for knowledge but by a commitment to making a real difference in my community.
My love for teaching took root when I was just eight years old. I vividly remember declaring that I wanted to be a teacher, and from that moment, I felt a calling to inspire young minds. This calling led me to various roles within education. At age 15, I became a Mathematics and Science teaching assistant and discovered the joy of helping students navigate challenging subjects. The rewarding feeling I got from making a difference in their lives sparked my passion for mentorship, which continued to grow throughout my high school years as I took on the role of a student tutor.
Determined to expand my horizons, I joined the African Science Academy, earning a full scholarship to pursue an accelerated Cambridge International A-level course. This experience broadened my perspective on science and technology, and it was during this time that I also served as a student recruitment volunteer and mentor for gifted students. Sharing my journey with others was incredibly fulfilling, especially being able to encourage young girls and underrepresented minorities to pursue their passions in STEM fields.
While at university, I worked as a coding tutor for children with Velttech Ghana. This role reinforced my belief in technology as a powerful tool for empowerment. I saw firsthand how introducing kids to coding unlocked their creativity and problem-solving skills, showing them they could thrive in a tech-driven world.
My commitment to education goes beyond teaching; I’ve also stepped into roles that allow me to advocate for inclusivity in education. As a registered consultant for educational initiatives and the Communications and Social Media Officer at the David Suddens Foundation, I work to support institutions dedicated to creating equitable learning environments. I focus on amplifying voices from diverse backgrounds and advocating for innovative policies that open doors for all students.
My entrepreneurial spirit has also led me to launch an award-winning climate-smart initiative to empower women. Education and empowerment are firmly intertwined, particularly when addressing environmental challenges. This initiative reflects my dedication to providing holistic and inclusive educational opportunities, especially for those in underserved communities.
Looking to the future, I aspire to establish an institution that revolutionizes basic education in Ghana. My vision is to create a transformative learning environment that promotes academic excellence and nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. I want every child to feel valued, supported and inspired to chase their dreams, regardless of their origin.
Education is the most potent catalyst for change. By investing in the potential of every learner, we can build a brighter, more equitable future for Ghana and beyond. With unwavering dedication to educational equity, I’m excited to continue this journey—shaping lives, influencing minds, and transforming communities through the
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