The Minority in Parliament has demanded that the government immediately clear outstanding scholarship arrears owed to Ghanaian students studying in the United Kingdom.
According to the Minority, many students have been waiting for months without receiving their stipends, leaving them unable to cover basic living expenses and tuition fees. Lawmakers said the situation is unfair and could negatively affect Ghana’s reputation as a country that supports its students abroad.
The Minority’s spokesperson argued that the failure to pay the arrears on time has placed significant financial strain on affected students and their families. They stressed that many of the students rely entirely on these funds to sustain their studies and daily needs while overseas.
In pushing for immediate action, the Minority said the government should take responsibility and ensure that the arrears are settled without further delay. Lawmakers expressed concern that continued delays could undermine student morale and academic performance.
They also urged relevant ministries and agencies to provide a clear timeline for when the outstanding payments will be released, and to improve systems to prevent similar problems in the future.
The issue of scholarship arrears has been a recurring challenge, with students reporting difficulties in meeting rent, food and other essential costs due to delayed payments.
Some opposition members argued that prompt payment of these stipends is not only necessary for student wellbeing but also reflects Ghana’s commitment to investing in human capital through international education opportunities.
Government representatives have acknowledged receipt of the concerns and said work is ongoing to address the arrears, but no firm date has yet been given for when all payments will be completed.
The Minority said it will continue to follow up on the matter until all affected students receive what is owed to them.
