Physiotherapist Turned Doctor, Meet Dr Irene Obeng

Irene Christiana Obeng attended Yaa Asantewaa Girls’ Senior High School in the Ashanti region between the years 2006 and 2009, where she was part of the Cadet and a science student. After venturing into physiotherapy for 1st degree, she later traveled to China to chase her dream of becoming a medical doctor. To celebrate her zeal, I’m having a conversation with her today.

Hi, I’m Alby Nana Cady and this is 10 Questions From Nana Cady season 6 episode 7.

Good morning Dr Obeng and welcome to 10QFNC

Good morning Alby and thank you for having me

You’re welcome. Let’s kick this off with some memories from SHS. Q1. How was the experience like being a cadet member? 

Being part of the cadet was awesome, it was like a sisterhood, family of some sort. And the added advantage of going out of campus every now and then was exciting. I quit during our final year because became a bit too demanding.

Q2. When you hear the name ‘Mrs Malik’, what comes to mind?

Oh I smile😅. It reminds me of the kenkey issue, hope you remember!. Those days, her name brought fear but looking back, I feel she did a very good job with us.

Not the kenkey issue again hahaha

Lol

Q3. Now life after Yagshs, what was the academic journey like?

Oh my! It’s been a long and a tough one😅. Sometimes I wonder how I was able to get this far but I know it’s by God’s Grace and determination.

Q4. Which uni did you attend before reading medicine?

Oh actually it’s a long story but I have a BSc. Physiotherapy degree from University of Ghana. I also studied a bit of geology/ earth science around that period

Q5. Did you practice professionally?

I did a one year internship/ national service at 37 military hospital

Q6. What was the biggest challenge reading medicine outside Ghana?

The language barrier was intense. Most of the local people don’t speak English so it’s hard to communicate with them when you go on the wards. But other than that, it was a smooth ride and my background in physiotherapy was of great help

Q7.Which specialty do you desire to go into in the near future?

Either anaesthesiology or gynaecology.

Q8. I know you have several (yes, I know someone who has serious crush on you) so, are you dating?

Oh really? Interesting! Yes please I’m dating

Q9. Which Bible verse keeps you going in your lowest moments?

1 Peter 5:7- cast all your cares upon him, for he cares for you!

Q10. What’s your take on the LGBTQI+ wanting recognition in Ghana?

Eish this is tricky. Well I believe people are entitled to live their lives the way they deem fit but as a Christian, it goes against my belief and in as much as I don’t condone the act, I also don’t think they deserve the hate and maltreatment they’re being subjected to.

Irene, it was great having you on 10QFNC. I wish you the very best in your medical career

My pleasure!! Thank you. Have a nice day