Liberia: 15-Yr-Old Sweeps High School Science Awards

15-yr-old Ms. Tyra Nettey with her academic awards 

 

In Liberia, female students are considered to be good at non-science subjects in school. But 15-year-old Tyra Nettey broke the records at the SOS Hermann Gmeiner International School for 2021/2022 as she topped her class in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Economics.

On September 23, Tyra Nettey completed secondary school and emerged as the salutatorian of her class, accumulating first-class honors in the top four (4) senior high subjects.

The 15-year-old student, who is supported by her single mother, Nornor Bee, was awarded certificates of excellence in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Economics.

She has always been a bright student throughout her academic career, becoming the dux for her class. Nettey’s ambition is to become a medical doctor. According to her, she has a passion to save lives and contribute significantly to the health sector. 

“Glory is to God and congratulations to my Tyra!” her excited single mother exclaimed. “You walk out with almost all the awards and I couldn't hold my tears back. I am overwhelmed and a very proud mother.” 

Recounting how she struggled to send her children to school, Madam Bee said “Julia K. Sandiman-Gbeyai this post is for you, Tyra mama. I present to you the little girl who walked in your care 11 years ago and you nurtured and molded her as your own. This is the result today and I [would] be so ungrateful if I don't give you your flowers.” 

“I appreciate you for building my kids’ foundations. I remembered when it used to get tough and school fees were due; you will tell me to let the children come to school and when you find the money you will pay. Thanks to you and your entire staff at ARC. Bravo to you, mama. Tyra Nettey brought you all these awards.”

Meanwhile, Nornor Bee, her single mother and others are calling on humanitarian and well-established individuals to help this teenage scholar pursue higher education at the Mother Pattern College of Health Sciences, where she wants to enroll. 

According to Bee, this will help her daughter to achieve her dream of becoming a Medical Doctor.

In their comments on social media, excited individuals said “This scholar needs to be hailed and even given a scholarship to further her education outside by the government as a means to encourage other young females to double up their studies and take education seriously.”

Others said: “The future is female and is manifesting daily with young Liberian women pushing for the top, both academically and professionally.”

“A time would soon come when every spectrum of society will have women seated at corners of decision making and impact. 15-year-old Tyra Nettey of the SOS International School again broke the glass ceiling and bagged 1st class honors in what most described as difficult subjects, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Economics,” they added.