The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced plans by the government to increase allowances for Ghanaian students studying abroad.
While he did not specify exact figures, the minister disclosed that discussions would soon take place to review and enhance the allowances for students under government-supported programmes.
During an official visit to Cotonou, Benin, Mr. Ablakwa assured the Ghanaian community of the government’s commitment to ensuring that stipends are disbursed promptly, as students have expressed concerns about frequent delays.
Currently, Ghanaian students participating in a one-year exchange programmes in Benin receive a monthly stipend of CFA 45,000 (GHS 1,147), in addition to a one-time book allowance of CFA 60,000 (GHS 1,500) and another CFA 60,000 for medical expenses.
As of now, about 40 students from the University of Media, Arts, and Communication (UNIMAC) and the University of Ghana are studying French in Benin, with an additional 30 from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) set to join them next week.
The students voiced their concerns regarding a recent reduction in the programme’s duration, highlighting that the 12-month term has been cut to six months, which has made it challenging for them to fulfil academic requirements.
According to figures from Ghana’s mission in Benin, there are currently over 2,000 Ghanaian nationals residing in the country.
Mr. Ablakwa’s engagement with the Ghanaian community in Cotonou attracted more than 100 participants.
He stressed that this visit is part of a new policy to engage with Ghanaians abroad on a quarterly basis and to address their concerns proactively.
His travel schedule begins with Benin and Nigeria.
Story By Grace Tsotsoo Quaye
