The Rastafarian student, Tyrone Iras Marhguy, who was initially denied admission to Achimota School in 2021 due to his refusal to cut his dreadlocks, has recently announced that he has been awarded scholarships totaling $1.4 million from various U.S. universities.
After triumphing in his legal dispute with Achimota, Tyrone made notable strides.
He represented the school at the 2023 National Maths and Science Quiz and excelled with 8As in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
His achievements were further highlighted in December 2023 when he became the top scorer in the American Mathematics Olympiad, surpassing over 150,000 students worldwide.
On August 28, 2024, Tyrone shared on X that he has received a full scholarship to study computer engineering at the University of Pennsylvania (Penn).
He also secured additional scholarship offers from Franklin & Marshall College, Williams College, and Duke University, collectively amounting to $1.4 million.
“I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve been awarded a full scholarship to pursue Computer Engineering at the @Penn! 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,” he wrote.
Tyrone reflected on his journey to Achimota School, describing it as a transformative experience that has significantly impacted his life.
He expressed his gratitude to his parents and family for their unwavering support, as well as to Ekow Aikins, CEO of Aikins Consult, who not only assisted him with the SAT examination necessary for U.S. admissions but also provided coaching throughout his school application process.
View his post below:
I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve been awarded a full scholarship to pursue Computer Engineering at the @Penn! 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 @AchimotaSchool. 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, CEO of @AikinsConsult, 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. @fmquayson_1 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 @Ohenetheshark, your mentorship and support were invaluable.
I also want to acknowledge the broader community of supporters from Child Rights International, Mr. Bright Appiah, and my tireless lawyers, Esq. James Gawuga Nkrumah, BL, LLB, BA 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 @Penn, 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.