Ghanaian in UK Says British Driver’s License Is More Valuable Than a Master’s Degree
Desmond, a Ghanaian living in South East London, currently works in the UK health sector as an ambulance driver. In an interview with DJ Nyaami on SVTV Africa’s Daily Hustle Worldwide, he shared his inspiring journey from Ghana to the UK and how he carved out a path to success.
Desmond studied Political Science at the University of Education, Winneba. During his time there, he became active in student politics, built networks, and eventually worked as a teaching assistant. However, he felt unfulfilled and decided to travel abroad. A bad experience at a hospital in Ghana, where he was denied treatment despite having money, pushed him further to seek better opportunities overseas.
“I noticed that most of my mates back home were doing nothing meaningful. That pushed me even more,” he explained.
Desmond moved to the UK three years ago. He applied to the University of Westminster and paid £4,000 upfront for tuition while still in Ghana. He entered the UK on a student visa, which allowed him to work 20 hours a week — just enough to support himself and pay part of his fees.
He credits much of his early stability to the woman who hosted him when he arrived. She gave him free accommodation and refused to take money for food, insisting he save and prioritize school. “She helped me a lot,” Desmond said. “Even her husband and kids supported me. Friends of mine also came over to eat there sometimes.”
Desmond pointed out that most job interviews in the UK don’t focus heavily on academic degrees but rather on the skills you can demonstrate. He later studied diplomacy and eventually got a call for an interview as an ambulance driver — and was hired.
He says, “Getting a British driving license can be more valuable than a Master’s degree. It opened doors for me.”
Though trained in political science, Desmond is now studying paramedics and learning to operate ambulances, including using blue lights in emergencies. He works long hours — sometimes more than the required 48 hours — but maintains a balanced life. On Friday nights, he chills. Saturdays, he plays football, and Sundays, he goes to church.
He observed that while some Ghanaians abroad tend to stay in their comfort zones, others from African countries are more willing to start small, learn, and grow. “That mindset makes a big difference,” he said.
Now well settled, Desmond has no regrets. “Life abroad isn’t boring. I have many friends. And as for women — they’re plenty in the UK. Choosing a wife? That will depend,” he laughed.
Watch The Video Below:
About The Author
