Government Bans Political Appointees from Accessing State Scholarships
“No Political Appointee Should Apply for These Scholarships; They Must Pay” — Mahama
President John Dramani Mahama has announced a significant policy shift aimed at reforming Ghana’s scholarship system. In a national address marking his administration’s first 120 days, he declared that political appointees will be barred from accessing state-funded scholarships.
“To ensure fairness and transparency and eliminate political patronage and corruption in awarding government scholarships, we promise to lay before Parliament a new bill to streamline administration and prohibit political appointees from accessing government scholarships,” President Mahama stated during his address on May 7, 2025.
Establishment of the Ghana Scholarships Authority
The proposed legislation, which has received Cabinet approval, aims to establish the Ghana Scholarships Authority. This body will oversee the administration of scholarships, ensuring they are awarded based on merit and genuine need, particularly focusing on underprivileged students.
“Cabinet has given policy approval for the new Scholarships Authority Bill to be laid before Parliament to fulfill this promise. I hope Parliament will consider and pass this bill expeditiously when it resumes sitting,” President Mahama emphasized.
Addressing Past Mismanagement
This move responds to longstanding concerns about the misuse of scholarship funds. In August 2024, then-candidate Mahama criticized the existing system, stating, “Government scholarships have been fraught with a lot of ‘kalabule,’ meaning deceit. We want to streamline it.”
He further asserted, “No political appointee should apply for these scholarships; they must pay. Scholarships should be reserved for underprivileged children who truly cannot afford it.”
Public Support and Expectations
The announcement has been met with approval from various stakeholders, including civil society organizations and student groups, who have long advocated for a more equitable scholarship system. The proposed reforms are seen as a step toward restoring integrity and fairness in the allocation of educational resources.
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