eng Science and Education Publishing American Journal of Applied Mathematics and Statistics 2328-7292 2025-01-17 13 1 14 23 10.12691/ajams-13-1-2 AJAMS20251312 article Mary Ann Yeboah 1 Kwame Annin 1 Francis Yaw Anyan anyanfrancis@ymail.com 1 Ama Pokuah Obeng 2 Rosemary Abayase 3 Elizabeth Serwaa Koomson 4 Department of Statistical Sciences, Kumasi Technical University, Box 854, Kumasi, Ghana Department of Computer Science, Kumasi Technical University, Box 854, Kumasi, Ghana Department of Hotel, Catering and Institutional Management, Kumasi Technical University, Box 854, Ksi., Ghana Department of Procurement and Supply Chain Management, Kumasi Technical University, Box 854, Kumasi, Ghana Abstract The study examines the relationship between challenging factors and remedial factors effect on attainment of PhD by Ghanaian using structural equation modelling (SEM). The results showed that the majority of the PhD holders acquired a PhD to enhance their careers, specifically to fulfil job requirements. It was also observed that lack of commitment from supervisors, personal problems, and financial limitations were found to be major barriers to attainment of a PhD. These difficulties impair PhD students¡¯ mental and physical health, which invariably impedes their academic progress. It was also discovered that although remedial factors such as a positive outlook, effective communication, and supervisory assistance are vital in reducing these difficulties, the quality of the academic and research environment has a major impact on students¡¯ PhD achievement. This suggests that a resource-rich and encouraging environment is necessary for PhD programs to be completed on time. These findings are significant for PhD applicants and students as they embark on a PhD academic journey. https://pubs.sciepub.com/ajams/13/1/2/ajams-13-1-2.pdf PhD doctorate challenges mental health academia SEM