Richlove Oduro Fires Back After Neurosurgeon Compares Her to Harvard Graduate Francisca Lamini
A social media debate over the value of the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) has resurfaced after a Ghanaian neurosurgeon, Dr. Isabella Opoku, praised former NSMQ star Francisca Lamini while taking a swipe at Richlove Oduro, the former Nsein Secondary School House Prefect whose comments about the competition went viral several years ago.
In a lengthy social media post, Dr. Opoku celebrated Francisca Lamini’s academic achievements following her graduation from Harvard University with summa cum laude honors. She argued that the NSMQ played a significant role in projecting Francisca into the spotlight and creating opportunities that ultimately contributed to her success.
According to the doctor, educational competitions such as the NSMQ provide a platform for talented students to gain recognition and access life-changing opportunities.
She cited several examples of former contestants who have excelled in their respective fields, including technology entrepreneur Paul Azunre, whom she noted gained visibility through the NSMQ before going on to establish innovative projects.
Dr. Opoku also appeared to reference Richlove Oduro’s widely discussed interview with content creator Goshers, in which the former student leader questioned the value placed on elite schools and academic competitions. In her post, the doctor suggested that some critics of the NSMQ may be dismissive of opportunities that were beyond their reach.
“Don’t be deceived, all those who spoke ill of NSMQ wish they had a sister, daughter, cousin, or niece who got catapulted by NSMQ’s spotlight into Harvard,” she wrote.
However, the comments sparked mixed reactions online, with some social media users arguing that Richlove’s original remarks were broader criticisms of Ghana’s educational system rather than a direct attack on the NSMQ itself.
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Responding to the comparisons, Richlove Oduro, who is currently a Level 100 student at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), defended her personal career choices and called for an end to comparisons between individuals pursuing different paths.
“Stop comparing other people to me. We all know in this generation photographers earn more than medical doctors. I have chosen my passion to be a photographer, leave me alone,” Richlove said.
Her response quickly generated discussions across social media, with many users emphasizing that success should not be measured solely by admission to prestigious universities or participation in academic competitions.
Others pointed out that while Francisca Lamini’s achievements deserve celebration, individuals who choose different career paths can also make meaningful contributions to society and achieve success on their own terms.
The renewed debate has once again brought attention to differing views on the role of the NSMQ, academic excellence, and the broader purpose of education in Ghana.
While supporters of the competition view it as a powerful platform for identifying and nurturing talent, critics continue to argue that the country’s educational system should place equal emphasis on creativity, practical skills, entrepreneurship, and community development.
For now, the exchange between Dr. Isabella Opoku and Richlove Oduro has reignited a national conversation about how success is defined and whether educational achievements alone should be used as a yardstick for comparing individuals.
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