Savelugu, Northern Region – June 11, 2025
The CEO of the Students Loan Trust Fund (SLTF), Dr. Hajia Saajida Shiraz, has brought hope and inspiration to candidates of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in the Savelugu Municipality by donating mathematical sets to aid their preparations. The intervention, made just days ahead of the national exams, reflects a deeply personal mission rooted in Dr. Saajida’s own journey from the modest classrooms of Savelugu to the commanding corridors of national leadership.
The donation was presented on her behalf by Chairman Toufic, Vice Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Savelugu Constituency, at a brief ceremony attended by students, teachers, and community leaders. Speaking during the event, Chairman Toufic conveyed a message of encouragement from Dr. Saajida, urging the students to embrace discipline, confidence, and critical thinking.
“Read and understand what you learn, and write what you read,” he advised, capturing Dr. Saajida’s belief that with focus and belief in one’s potential, success is attainable.
The gesture, while modest in material terms, resonates powerfully in a municipality where many pupils, especially girls, contend with limited access to educational resources. The donation of mathematical sets is more than just exam preparation support — it is a symbol of possibility from someone who once walked the same paths.
ZaaNews notes that this philanthropic act closely reflects sentiments Dr. Saajida recently shared on her official Facebook account following her appointment by former President John Dramani Mahama as Acting CEO of the Students Loan Trust Fund. In that post, she wrote:
“It is possible for a Savelugu girl like me to ascend to the heights of public office because of education, so it is a dream come true to be given the platform to facilitate access to quality tertiary education for Ghanaian students.”
Her post further expressed deep appreciation to President Mahama for the opportunity to serve, adding, “I am humbled by the confidence reposed in me, and will work assiduously to deliver on his government’s commitment to improving educational financing.”
Dr. Saajida’s success story continues to serve as a beacon for countless young girls in northern Ghana, many of whom face challenges such as poverty, early marriage, and limited access to learning materials. Her personal rise through education stands as evidence that the classroom can be the launchpad for leadership.
Her support for BECE candidates in Savelugu — especially girls from underserved schools — is therefore a deliberate and heartfelt effort to reach back and lift others. Community members have welcomed the gesture warmly, with teachers and parents praising her as not only a provider of educational resources but as a living embodiment of the power of perseverance and purpose.
“She’s not just giving mathematical sets,” said one teacher at the event. “She’s giving these children a reason to believe that their dreams are valid.”
As the candidates sit for one of the most decisive exams of their academic lives, they carry with them not only their pens and rulers, but the inspiration of someone who rose from their midst. In her own words, Dr. Saajida reminded supporters:
“My people, I have seen the many expressions of goodwill, and I am thankful. That so many people trust me and advocated for me is the reminder I need to continue to carry myself with confidence, grace, and humility. I hold this role in trust for all of us. Insha Allah, we will not disappoint.”
For the students of Savelugu, that trust may well be the first step on their own journey to greatness.
Source: Zaaghana.com//Issifu Alidu Laa-Bandow
