Ghanaian Gold Medalist Evans Yamoah Risks Expulsion Due to Unpaid Fees

2023 African Games: Ghana’s Gold Medalist Evans Cadman Yamoah Faces Expulsion Over Unpaid Fees

2023 African Games: Ghana's Gold Medalist Evans Yamoah Faces Expulsion Over Unpaid Fees — Ghanaian Gold Medalist – Evans Cadman Yamoah

In March 2024, Evans Cadman Yamoah, a 23-year-old Ghanaian athlete, captivated audiences by securing gold in the men’s high jump at the African Games in Accra. His impressive 2.23-meter leap drew roars from a supportive home crowd, with the Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif, presenting him with the medal and celebrating his victory as a memorable moment for the nation. However, six months after his outstanding achievement, Yamoah now faces a major obstacle: he may be expelled from the University of Central Missouri if he cannot settle his tuition fees, which total over $15,000.

Evans Yamoah transferred from the University of Ghana to the University of Central Missouri on a scholarship in 2022, following a successful collegiate athletic career in Ghana. Unfortunately, because he had already spent two years in the Ghanaian collegiate system, his NCAA scholarship eligibility ran out before he could complete his studies. This left Yamoah, now in his final year, without financial support to finish his degree. He took a campus job to cover some expenses, but it barely suffices for his living and boarding needs, let alone the remaining tuition.

“I’ve explored multiple avenues for help, but I haven’t had much luck,” Yamoah shared with Joy Sports. He had hoped to receive financial assistance from Ghana’s Ministry of Youth and Sports, even submitting an official request along with required documentation, such as his transcripts and account details. Despite these efforts, he has not received any responses from the ministry or other state agencies.

Yamoah’s parents, both civil servants in Ghana, are unable to assist with his hefty educational expenses. In a recent meeting with the university’s accounts office, he was informed that he must settle the outstanding balance by December 15 to avoid being withdrawn from the institution. Failure to comply would not only prevent him from graduating but would also result in his debt being sent to a collection agency, a step that could harm his financial future.

To make matters worse, the Ghana Athletics Association, the governing body for track and field in Ghana, is also limited in resources and unable to cover Yamoah’s financial needs. While officials are aware of his situation, their current support is limited to raising awareness of his plight and hoping others can step in to help.

In a heartfelt plea to the public, Yamoah has turned to the media to seek financial assistance from well-meaning Ghanaians, businesses, or any institution capable of supporting him. “I am humbly asking for help from anyone who can support me to graduate,” he expressed, adding, “When I represented Ghana, I gave my all to bring pride to the nation, winning gold at the African Games. I am appealing to the President, former Presidents, private citizens, and businesses to help me complete my education. I don’t want all my years in school to end without a degree.”

This situation highlights a concerning issue for athletes like Yamoah, who often have to balance their academic ambitions with their athletic commitments. Despite his dedication to representing Ghana on an international platform and making the country proud, he now faces the prospect of being denied his educational goals due to financial constraints. The lack of timely support for athletes like Yamoah, who demonstrate excellence and dedication, underscores the importance of a stronger support system for students excelling in sports and education.

The Ghanaian public, touched by Yamoah’s story, has responded on social media, with several individuals calling on corporate bodies and philanthropists to lend him a hand. Others have suggested creating a fund to support student-athletes who find themselves in similar predicaments.

With just a few weeks left before the university’s payment deadline, Yamoah’s future remains uncertain. Yet, his hope endures as he seeks help from any willing supporters. If successful, he would be able to complete his degree and continue inspiring the next generation of Ghanaian athletes. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of backing young athletes in their educational pursuits, ensuring their achievements are not just celebrated momentarily but supported sustainably for their long-term development.

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Source: Myjoyonline.com