Ghanaian Students in Serbia Cry Over Delayed Stipends

Some Ghanaian students in Serbia cry to the government of Ghana over the prolonged delayed payment of their stipends.

These stipends, essential for supporting their academic endeavors, have remained stagnant for over a year, severely impacting their studies and overall well-being as they navigate life in a foreign country.

According to testimonies from some of the affected students, their financial situations have forced them to resort to loans or low-paying jobs to make ends meet. Abdul Salam Mohammed, one of the students, lamented the lack of action from the Secretariat despite continuous engagement, highlighting the challenges they face in balancing academic responsibilities with the need to work menial jobs for sustenance.

Another student, speaking anonymously, shed light on the financial struggles they encounter daily, including difficulties in affording basic necessities and transportation to attend lectures on the main campus.

The issue of delayed stipends has gained momentum following an investigative report by The Fourth Estate, which uncovered instances of influential individuals and associates receiving scholarships, diverting resources from deserving students. This revelation has sparked public outrage, especially as struggling students abroad continue to be neglected.

Similar sentiments have been expressed by Ghanaian students studying in Hungary, amplifying the urgency of addressing the systemic issues within the Scholarship Secretariat.

Dr. Peter Anti Partey, the Executive Secretary of the Institute for Education Studies, has called the situation “unfortunate” and urged for Presidential intervention to enact reforms within the scholarship system. He emphasized the need for transparency and accountability to ensure that scholarship funds reach deserving beneficiaries, thereby preventing further hardships for students pursuing education both locally and internationally.

As the plight of Ghanaian students in Serbia underscores broader concerns about scholarship distribution and misuse of funds, there is a growing call for comprehensive reforms to address these challenges and uphold the integrity of educational support systems.

Ensuring the continued support and sponsorship of individuals who receive scholarships from the government and scholarship secretariats is paramount for several reasons. Firstly, investing in education through scholarships is an investment in the future of the nation. By providing opportunities for individuals to pursue higher education, governments contribute to the development of a skilled workforce and future leaders who can drive innovation, economic growth, and social progress.

Moreover, scholarships serve as a means of social mobility, offering access to education for talented individuals who may otherwise be unable to afford it. By supporting these scholars throughout their academic journey, governments and scholarship bodies can help level the playing field and promote equal opportunities for all citizens, regardless of socio-economic background.

Furthermore, sponsoring individuals on scholarships entails a commitment to their success and well-being. It is not enough to simply award scholarships and then leave recipients to fend for themselves. Continued support is essential to ensure that scholars can focus on their studies without having to worry about financial constraints or other challenges that may arise.

Additionally, maintaining ongoing support for scholarship recipients can help foster a sense of loyalty and gratitude towards the sponsoring entity. Scholars who receive consistent support are more likely to become ambassadors for their country or institution, promoting goodwill and strengthening international relations.

Overall, the need for government and scholarship secretariats to continue sponsoring individuals they send abroad on scholarships cannot be overstated. It is not only a matter of fulfilling a moral obligation but also a strategic investment in the future prosperity and development of the nation. By providing sustained support to scholarship recipients, governments can empower individuals to reach their full potential and contribute positively to society.