From Deprivation to Doctorate, The Inspiring Journey of Dr. Zuobog Philip Neri

Dr. Zuobog Philip Neri

Dr. Zuobog Philip Neri has etched his name into the annals of history as the first doctoral graduate from the Piina Community Day School in the Lambussie district of Ghana’s Upper West Region. From his humble beginnings in a deprived community to earning a Doctor of Philosophy degree, Dr. Zuobog's journey serves as a beacon of hope for many in similar circumstances.

Dr. Zuobog's academic prowess was first recognized at the University for Development Studies, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Technology. His relentless pursuit of knowledge propelled him to the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), where he earned a Master of Philosophy in Agricultural Economics. Furthering his education, Dr. Zuobog specialized in Rural Development and Food Security, completing a Master of Science in Management of Development at the prestigious Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands. He didn’t stop there; he also enhanced his expertise at Wageningen University and Research, underscoring his commitment to educational excellence and the betterment of his community.

Dr. Zuobog’s professional journey is equally impressive. He began as a teacher after attaining a Teacher’s Certificate ‘A’ from Tumu College of Education. His career has transcended various sectors, including national governments, international organizations, NGOs, and the corporate landscape. As a Policy Advisor on Cocoa and Agribusiness at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Accra, he provided crucial policy guidance, influencing major stakeholder discussions with institutions like the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.

Currently, Dr. Zuobog serves as the Programme Manager at Fairtrade Africa, where he spearheads a significant project funded by the German Government’s International Climate Initiative. His work focusses on creating deforestation-free cocoa supply chains, showcasing his dedication not only to agriculture but to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

Despite numerous calls to enter the political arena, Dr. Zuobog has chosen a different path. His heart lies in mentorship; he is committed to inspiring and supporting youth from challenging backgrounds. "My journey is proof that with determination and the right support, it is possible to change one’s circumstances," he shares.

Dr. Zuobog is not just a passive observer of change. He is actively involved in his community, having served as an elected Assembly Member for the Tapumu/Chetu Electoral Area. However, he believes that his current contributions can be more impactful outside of formal politics. "By sharing my education and experiences, I can address the root causes of poverty effectively and inspire the next generation to dream big," he emphasizes.

His dual role as a practicing farmer, managing farms in both the Upper West and Ashanti Regions, further exemplifies his commitment to agricultural advancement in Ghana. Dr. Zuobog embodies the spirit of resilience, proving that with hard work, dedication, and a focus on giving back, one can rise from humble beginnings to inspire others.

As Dr. Zuobog Philip Neri celebrates his remarkable achievements, he reminds us that every journey begins with a single step and that the pursuit of knowledge can change lives. His story is a testament to the power of education and the impact one person can have on their community and beyond. The road from deprivation to doctorate may be long, but for Dr. Zuobog, it is just the beginning of a new chapter — one filled with hope, inspiration, and continued commitment to the betterment of society.