Gov’t settles arrears of Ghanaian students under scholarship in Britain

The Government of Ghana has released first-quarter funds to clear outstanding scholarship arrears owed to Ghanaian students studying in the United Kingdom.

A statement issued by the Ghana Scholarships Secretariat and signed by Director-General Alex Kwaku Asafo-Agyei said the funds are part of efforts to address delays in payments.

“The Government has released first quarter allocations to the Authority toward the settlement of outstanding scholarship arrears,” the statement noted.

It explained that the intervention forms part of “ongoing efforts by Government to progressively address delays in the payment of stipends and tuition fees,” acknowledging concerns raised by affected students.

The Secretariat further expressed regret over the situation, stating it “deeply regrets the inconvenience caused by these delays” and assured that authorities remain committed to student welfare.

The development follows mounting pressure over the past month, as Ghanaian students in the United Kingdom reported severe financial distress due to prolonged delays in payments. Many warned of possible academic dismissal and deportation risks.

The Minority in Parliament had also pushed for urgent action, citing arrears estimated at about GH¢56 million for PhD students alone in both the UK and the United States.

Several universities, including the University of Wolverhampton and De Montfort University, issued warning letters to affected students over unpaid fees. Some notices indicated that continued non-payment could lead to withdrawal from programmes and possible visa complications.

President of the UK PhD cohort, Prince Komla Bansah, had earlier warned that many students had endured up to 40 months without payments, describing the situation as widespread across more than 20 universities.

In its latest update, the Secretariat said it is “working diligently with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that these payments are processed promptly,” adding that steps are being taken to minimise future delays.

Students have also been urged to remain calm and continue their academic work while efforts are made to clear all outstanding obligations.

“The Authority appreciates the patience and cooperation of all affected students during this period and assures them of its unwavering support,” the statement added.

The release of funds is expected to ease immediate pressures, though concerns remain about the consistency and timeliness of future disbursements.