Accra: The Ghana Scholarships Authority (GSA) has addressed concerns surrounding the Oath of Affirmation and Scholarship Validation Exercise currently underway for Ghanaian scholarship beneficiaries in the United Kingdom. The GSA has emphasized that this exercise does not introduce any new conditions for the beneficiaries.
According to Ghana Web, the GSA stated that the exercise aims to verify scholarship awards, update beneficiary records, and reaffirm commitments outlined in scholarship bonds signed by beneficiaries. These clarifications follow criticisms from the UK PhD Cohort regarding delays in tuition fee payments, stipends, and other obligations to Ghanaian students in the UK.
In a statement signed by Director-General Alex Kwaku Asafo-Agyei, the GSA explained that the exercise is conducted under the Ghana Scholarships Authority Act, 2025 (Act 1149), and the Oaths Act, 1972 (NRCD 6), in collaboration with the Ghana High Commission in the UK. The authority reassured beneficiaries that the exercise is lawful and part of efforts to ensure accurate records of government-sponsored students.
The tensions between the GSA and scholarship beneficiaries have been ongoing due to outstanding financial commitments. Earlier this year, the UK PhD Cohort had planned a demonstration at the Ghana High Commission in London to protest prolonged delays in payments. Some students reported going months without receiving living allowances, leading to academic and immigration issues.
The demonstration was suspended after the GSA announced partial release of funds to address arrears. However, students remained uncertain if the released funds would cover all affected beneficiaries. Concerns resurfaced in June and July, with plans for another protest due to continued payment delays.
The GSA maintains that the validation exercise does not change the conditions of existing scholarships. Beneficiaries agreed to specific obligations, including returning to Ghana within two months after completing their studies. The exercise reaffirms these commitments, ensuring beneficiaries are accurately recorded.
The GSA also addressed concerns about the Letters of No Objection issued to beneficiaries seeking to stay in the UK under the Graduate Route visa. The authority clarified that these letters were requested by beneficiaries and do not alter scholarship bond obligations. The Graduate Route offers professional experience opportunities, but the obligation to return to Ghana remains unless lawfully changed.
Regarding outstanding fees and stipends, the GSA acknowledged the difficulties caused by delays. It is engaging with the Ministry of Finance to resolve outstanding obligations and ensure legitimate payments to beneficiaries. However, the payment issues are separate from the validation exercise, and beneficiaries must fulfill their scholarship bond commitments.
The GSA emphasized that the validation exercise aims to strengthen accountability and ensure fairness in scholarship administration. It reiterated the importance of the state's investment in Ghana's human capital and the responsibilities of both the state and beneficiaries.
The GSA urged all beneficiaries to participate in the Oath of Affirmation and Scholarship Validation Exercise promptly, warning that non-participation could result in the forfeiture of scholarship awards.