NDC plans overhaul of scholarship system to curb political exploitation -  Ablakwa

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) plans to introduce new legislation aimed at reforming Ghana’s scholarship system if it wins the upcoming elections, North Tongu Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has said.

This according to him, is to ensure that scholarships are reserved exclusively for the underprivileged, including brilliant but needy students, and those pursuing courses aligned with the party’s strategic national development objectives.

He made this known during the second edition of the a press briefing on the NDC Manifesto in Accra on Tuesday [September 3, 2024.]

The event was under the theme “ unpacking the good governance, infrastructure development and business development policies in the NDC’s 2024 manifesto.

Ablakwa criticised the current system, accusing it of being plagued by corruption and exploitation, where politically exposed persons, including ministers and MPs, compete with vulnerable citizens for scholarships.

He emphasised that under the proposed law, no government official or their relatives would be eligible for state scholarships, thus preserving these opportunities for the truly deserving.

“We are witnessing a disturbing trend where politicians and the elite are snatching scholarships meant for the poor and vulnerable,” Ablakwa stated.

“This corruption must end. We will enact a law that clearly prohibits politically exposed persons from benefiting from government scholarships.”

The proposed legislation, according to Ablakwa, marks a new dawn in the administration of scholarships in Ghana, ensuring that they reach those who need them most.