Bawumia: I Worked As A Taxi Driver And Cleaner Abroad So I Care About The Poor
In a heartfelt revelation, Vice President Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia shared the challenging journey he embarked on during his upbringing and university years. From walking to school in Moshie Zongo in Tamale to working as a taxi driver and cleaner, Dr. Bawumia’s experiences have shaped his deep understanding of the struggles faced by the less fortunate in Ghana.
During his time at the University of Oxford, Dr. Bawumia could only afford to pay for one term of school fees. Determined to pursue his education, he took on various odd jobs to make ends meet, including cleaning dormitories and driving a taxi. Despite the hardships, his resilience and perseverance led him to successfully complete his studies.
“It has not been an easy journey. It has taken a lot of hard work, discipline, and patience to get here. I walked to school growing up in Moshie Zongo in Tamale. I have been a day worker on farms during holidays in secondary school, a warehouse boy even after finishing university, and a minicab driver. I was only able to pay fees for one term during my studies at Oxford University and had to survive for the rest of my studies without paying fees, thanks to my College. I only settled my fees in arrears after I started work following the completion of my Ph.D. in Canada. I have also been a cleaner of dormitories in my university days in Canada,” Dr. Bawumia said.
Dr. Bawumia’s challenging background has instilled in him a strong sense of compassion for the disadvantaged and marginalized members of society. He expressed his unwavering commitment to addressing the issues faced by the poorest and most vulnerable individuals, such as lepers, the sick, the disabled, street children, and the unemployed.
“I care about the poor, the vulnerable, and the excluded. This is the true essence of life – to address the problems of the weakest among us and to help them lift themselves,” Dr. Bawumia affirmed.
His belief in the power of hard work and its transformative impact has been evident throughout his career. From his previous role as Deputy Governor at the Bank of Ghana to his current position as Vice President, Dr. Bawumia has consistently demonstrated dedication and honesty in serving the nation.
Dr. Bawumia’s personal experiences serve as a reminder that one’s upbringing and challenges can shape their commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. His story is an inspiration, highlighting the importance of empathy and the need to uplift the most vulnerable members of society.
