Parliament Reviews Bill to Establish Ghana Scholarships Authority
Ghana’s Parliament is reviewing a bill to establish the Ghana Scholarships Authority (GSA), a centralized body tasked with overseeing scholarships and educational funding nationwide.
Damian Owusu 
In a significant step toward improving access to education, Ghana’s Parliament is reviewing a bill to establish the Ghana Scholarships Authority (GSA), a centralized body tasked with overseeing scholarships and educational funding nationwide. The proposed legislation seeks to address inefficiencies in the current fragmented system, ensuring transparency, equity, and better alignment with national development priorities.
Currently, scholarship administration in Ghana is managed by multiple entities, including the Scholarships Secretariat, GETFund, and various ministries and private organizations. This decentralized approach has often led to inconsistencies, delays, and limited access for deserving students, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds.
The new Ghana Scholarships Authority (GSA) aims to consolidate these efforts under a single, well-regulated institution, ensuring:
Fair and Transparent Award Processes – Clear eligibility criteria and merit-based selection.
Efficient Disbursement of Funds – Reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks in scholarship distribution.
Increased Private Sector Participation – Encouraging corporate partnerships to expand funding opportunities.
Focus on STEM and High-Demand Fields – Prioritizing scholarships for students in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), and other critical sectors.
Key Provisions of the Bill
Unified Scholarship System – The GSA will serve as the primary agency for all government-funded scholarships, eliminating duplication and ensuring accountability.
Needs-Based and Merit-Based Awards – Scholarships will cater to both academically outstanding students and financially disadvantaged learners.
Digital Application and Tracking – A proposed online platform will simplify applications and allow beneficiaries to monitor their status.
Mandatory Post-Scholarship Service – Some awards may require beneficiaries to work in Ghana for a specified period, ensuring national benefit.
Regular Audits and Reporting – To prevent mismanagement, the GSA will undergo periodic reviews and publish annual reports.
The bill is currently undergoing committee review, with further consultations expected from educational institutions, civil society, and industry leaders. If passed, the GSA could become operational within the next academic year.
The establishment of the Ghana Scholarships Authority represents a major shift toward a more structured and inclusive education financing system. By centralizing scholarship management, Ghana aims to empower more students, reduce brain drain, and build a skilled workforce for future development.
