A 13-Year-Old Prodigy Enrolls as the Youngest Undergraduate at KNUST
At just 13 years old, Melchizedeck Adio Baafawiise has made history by becoming the youngest undergraduate student at the prestigious Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). Melchizedek is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Physics at the university, an impressive feat considering his age.
Melchizedek’s academic prowess was evident when he scored an outstanding A1 in five subjects, including Physics and Mathematics, in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). His passion for Mechanics shines through, although he finds Electricity and Magnetism a bit abstract for his taste.
“I love the calculations and the mechanics. When you perform experiments, you get to feel them. Even though with electricity, you perform experiments, you don’t see the electrons moving,” Melchizedek explained.
His parents, both teachers, played a significant role in shaping Melchizedek’s academic journey. Initially dreaming of becoming a pilot, he soon realized the limitations of that career path and decided to explore his interests by studying Physics at KNUST.
“If I study Physics, I’ll get to discover my true interest. By my third or fourth year, I’ll decide whether to specialize in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering,” he shared.
Attending St. Cyprian’s Minor Seminary SHS in Sawla Ghana, Melchizedek skipped Forms 2 and 3, demonstrating his exceptional academic abilities. Despite being among older peers at the university, he quickly adapted and felt at ease in his new environment.
Melchizedek follows in the footsteps of Ruth Ama Gyan-Darkwah, who also entered KNUST at the age of 13. Ruth, the daughter of a physics teacher, pursued Mathematics in her Bachelor’s degree and is currently pursuing her PhD at the University of New Mexico at the age of 18. These young prodigies continue to inspire the next generation of scholars with their exceptional achievements.
