Empowering excellence: Zenith Bank rewards top WASSCE performer

Huda Suglo Suleman, a student from Legacy Girls’ College, has been named the Overall Best Candidate in the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examinations (WASSCE), earning her a prestigious recognition from Zenith Bank (Ghana) Ltd. The bank presented her with a cash prize of GH¢30,000 and a brand-new laptop during the annual WAEC Distinction Awards, marking another milestone in its long-standing support for academic excellence in Ghana.

The award ceremony, held recently in Accra, celebrates outstanding performance in the WASSCE, a critical examination that determines students’ progression to tertiary education. Zenith Bank has been a key sponsor of the “Overall Best WASSCE Candidate” category since its partnership with the West African Examinations Council (WAEC). This initiative aims to recognize and empower high-achieving students, providing both financial and technological support to help them pursue higher education and excel in their future careers.

James Wiafe Akenten, Divisional Head of Marketing at Zenith Bank, accepted the award on behalf of Managing Director Henry Onwuzurigbo. He emphasized the importance of investing in Ghana’s youth as a foundation for national development. “Recognizing academic excellence is not just about rewards—it’s about building a future where talent is nurtured and potential is realized,” he said. “We believe that by supporting top performers, we are contributing to a stronger human capital base capable of driving economic growth.”

Dr. Rosemond Wilson, Head of the WAEC National Office, used the occasion to highlight the value of integrity in academic achievement. “Success must be earned through hard work and honesty,” she stated. “We encourage all students to uphold the standards of the examination process and to serve as ambassadors of integrity in their communities.” She also commended the efforts of teachers, parents, and school administrators in shaping the academic success of students like Huda.

Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Apaak, praised the accomplishments of the WASSCE top performers. “These students have shown that excellence is attainable through discipline, dedication, and perseverance,” he said. “They are not only role models for their peers but also proof that Ghana’s youth have the potential to lead and innovate.”

With continued support from institutions like Zenith Bank, the WASSCE Distinction Awards serve as both an incentive and a celebration of academic excellence. As more students aim to achieve top marks, the program inspires a culture of academic rigor and personal responsibility. Moving forward, the collaboration between WAEC and private sector partners like Zenith Bank is expected to expand, with plans to introduce additional resources such as scholarships and mentorship programs to further empower high-achieving students.