Dr Victoria Wosornu named top dental graduate with six major awards
On April 4, 2025, the University of Ghana held its 2023/2024 Vice-Chancellor’s Academic Awards. One standout achiever was Dr (Dent) Victoria Dovi Akpene Wosornu of the Dental School, who walked away with six prestigious prizes.
Each time she ascended the stage at the Great Hall to receive an award, she was met with thunderous applause—a testament to her remarkable performance. Her awards included:
University of Ghana Dental School Prize for Best Student in the BDS Final Part III, Christian Botchway Prize for Best Student in Oral Biology, Dr Barimah S. Adjei Prize for Best Student in Local Anaesthesia, Life Healthcare Centre Prize for Best Final Year Dental Student, Stephen Tettey Glover Prize for Best Student in Removable Prosthodontics and Dr Nana Kwame Asante-Appiah Prize for Best Student in Operative Technique.
In an interview with The Mirror, Dr Wosornu expressed her joy and gratitude.
"I am truly honoured and humbled to receive these awards. This achievement represents the culmination of years of dedication, perseverance and countless hours of study. I am especially grateful for the support of my lecturers, mentors and family, who have been instrumental throughout this journey."
Passion for dentistry
Dr Wosornu said her passion for dentistry continues to grow, and she is committed to improving oral health and well-being in communities across Ghana.
She explained what inspired her career path: "Dentistry is a unique field in health care that blends science with art. What truly drew me to it was seeing the relief and joy on my friends’ faces after visiting the dentist. Whether it was getting rid of pain, restoring a smile, or simply feeling more confident, the transformation was always heart-warming."
"I realised that dentistry goes beyond treating teeth; it restores comfort, confidence and self-esteem. That impact inspired me to pursue dentistry and meet the oral health needs of both the young and the old. I’m also passionate about preventive care and reducing health inequalities."
Background
Dr Wosornu is the youngest of four children, born to Alice Dedjoe-Djokotoe and the late Francis Wosornu. Though originally from Dabala in the Volta Region, she was raised in Takoradi, Western Region. She had her early education at Good Shepherd Academy and Lagos Town Basic School, and later attended Archbishop Porter Girls’ SHS, where she excelled in Science and Mathematics.
In 2018, she represented her school in the National Science and Maths Quiz, a milestone that cemented her desire to study dentistry at the University of Ghana. Six years later, she graduated top of her class with six of the 12 awards presented.
Future plans
Dr Wosornu said she was exploring several exciting opportunities but hopes to begin her career at a reputable dental practice in Accra to broaden her clinical experience.
"I see myself actively involved in clinical dental practice, providing high-quality, patient-centred care. Beyond that, I also have a strong interest in academia and research. I hope to pursue postgraduate studies and contribute to advancing knowledge in dentistry, particularly in areas that affect oral health behaviours and access to care.
Ultimately, I want a career that balances hands-on patient care with academic engagement and impactful research."
