The access to health is a fundamental human right. However, in the case of Rubben, an attempt
to seek for an emergency health care ended a vulnerable young child in a state of disability and he
has to live with this condition to date.
Narrating his sad condition to the Coordinator of Rural Farmer Care Initiative (RFCI), Ruben’s
mother said that at a very young age, Rubben convulsed and was rushed to a local clinic for
medication attention. On arrival at the facility, the Health Personnel in Charge was not round and
was attended by a supporting staff. The staff in attempt to save the life of little Rubben injected
him multiple times. The mother continued that after some days, little Rubben paralysed and this
affected this movement and speech. After numerous medical attention, Rubben was able to walk
and speak with serious difficulties. As to why, the issue was not pursued legally, the mother did
not comment apparently due to reasons best known to the family. When asked how he attended
and completed his basic education, Rubben said he went through hell in those days since assistance
was not available. Interestingly, according to Rubben, family and friends assisted him and he
expressed his great appreciation.
Sadly, Rubben said, his family and himself had to contend with stigmatizations from diverse angels.
However, he did not give in to the negativity but progressed since he knew what his aspirations
were. Finally, Rubben completed his Basic Education in 20. With his condition, he gained an
admission to the Abetifi Senior High School (ABSEC) and studied General Arts with Economics,
History, Geography and Twi as his electives. When asked how he successfully completed his
secondary education, he answered by saying that he was assisted by staff, course and roommates.
As Rubben completed his secondary education, team RFCI identified him during their one of their
home visits. Upon further discussions, team RFCI took a video of him and posted it on it social
media (WhatsApp) to seek for help for Rubben. Fortunately, Dr. Salomey Afrifa showed interest
in Rubben plea for help, assisted him to gain admission, and paid his tuition fees at The University
of Education, Winneba where he is studying Bachelor of Science in Political Education. Recently,
the Coordinator of RFCI met Rubben after successfully completing Level 100. Rubben shared his
experiences at UEW and he is now very happy and motivated. Rubben’s story is an inspiration to
people who are in his condition and tells them not to give up since they will one day meet their
angels. However, Rubben just like Oliver Twist is asking for diverse support to enable him
successfully complete his tertiary education and contribute to building Ghana at large
