Eden Nana Obeng Kyei, the student who led Prempeh College to victory in the 2021 National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ), has taken an unconventional path after graduating from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). Obeng Kyei, who earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science, faced numerous job rejections despite applying for full-time roles as early as September 2025. His experience as an international student added to the uncertainty of his job hunt.
Obeng Kyei's journey from NSMQ champion to Caltech graduate has garnered significant attention from Ghanaians who followed his progress. After months of unsuccessful job applications, he decided to build something of his own. Alongside co-founders Emmanuel Antwi-Tuah and Keziah Aba Ghartey, Obeng Kyei launched CollegeWave, an EdTech platform designed to provide students with peer-reviewed study resources. The platform aims to cover materials ranging from college entrance examination preparation to professional licensing content.
CollegeWave is currently in its building phase, with students invited to join a waitlist for early access. The founders are working to shape the product, although a full public launch date has not been disclosed. In addition to building the startup, Obeng Kyei currently works as a Machine Learning Engineer at Qualcomm. His experience in ColorStack, a community supporting Black students in computing, also contributed to his network during his job search.
Obeng Kyei's update on his journey drew reactions from social media users, who expressed pleasure in seeing him thrive abroad. Some users commented on his appearance in photos taken during a tour of tourist sites in California. The story of the 2021 NSMQ champion has continued to attract attention from Ghanaians who followed his progress since his days at Prempeh College.
The challenges faced by Obeng Kyei highlight the difficulties international students may encounter in the job market. Despite these challenges, he has managed to create a new opportunity through CollegeWave. The EdTech platform aims to provide valuable resources to students, leveraging the experiences of peers who have used the materials.
Obeng Kyei's story serves as an inspiration to others who may be facing similar challenges. His determination to create something of his own has led to the development of CollegeWave, which may benefit students in the future.
Key points
- CollegeWave aims to provide students with peer-reviewed study resources, covering materials from college entrance examination preparation to professional licensing content.
- Obeng Kyei currently works as a Machine Learning Engineer at Qualcomm alongside building CollegeWave.
- Obeng Kyei's journey from NSMQ champion to Caltech graduate and EdTech startup founder has garnered significant attention from Ghanaians.
