Gov’t releases funds to clear scholarship arrears for Ghanaian students abroad

The Ghana Scholarships Authority has announced the release of first-quarter funds to settle outstanding scholarship arrears owed to Ghanaian students studying abroad.

In a statement issued on April 16 and signed by its Director-General, Alex Kwaku Asafo-Agyei, the Authority said the funds will be used to address delays in the payment of stipends and tuition fees, particularly for beneficiaries in the United Kingdom and other countries.

The Authority explained that the intervention forms part of broader government efforts to progressively clear the backlog of unpaid obligations and restore stability to the scholarship scheme. It acknowledged the challenges faced by affected students and expressed regret over the inconvenience caused by the delays.

Recent reports indicate that several Ghanaian students abroad, especially in the UK, have experienced prolonged delays in receiving financial support, with some facing academic and financial difficulties as a result . In some instances, students have raised concerns about unpaid fees and stipends, prompting calls for urgent government intervention.

According to the statement, the released funds will undergo the necessary administrative and public financial management processes before being disbursed to beneficiaries. The Authority assured that it is working closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure that payments are processed promptly and that similar delays are minimised in the future.

“The Authority is working diligently with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that these payments are processed promptly and that such delays are minimised going forward,” the statement noted.

Beneficiaries have been encouraged to remain calm and continue their academic activities while efforts are made to resolve all outstanding obligations.

The Authority further reaffirmed government’s commitment to the welfare of Ghanaian students abroad, emphasising that the release of funds demonstrates a renewed focus on addressing the longstanding challenges within the scholarship system.

It also expressed appreciation to affected students for their patience and cooperation during the period of delay, assuring them of continued support.