The National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) has expressed concern over the inauguration of the Scholarship Authority Board, criticizing its composition for the complete absence of student representation.
In a press statement released and signed by NUGS President Rashid Ibrahim and General Secretary Benedict Amelorku on 8th January 2026, NUGS described the exclusion of students from the Board as a serious breach of legitimacy, fairness, and democratic accountability.
The Union emphasized that students are central stakeholders in the scholarship framework, which exists to promote equity, expand access to education, and secure the academic futures of students, particularly those from vulnerable backgrounds.
According to NUGS, effective governance of education institutions requires inclusivity, transparency, and stakeholder participation, principles that are undermined when students, the primary beneficiaries are left out of decision-making.
The Union noted that the Scholarship Authority Board oversees critical matters such as eligibility requirements, selection procedures, disbursement mechanisms, monitoring, and grievance redress, all of which directly affect the welfare and academic progression of students.
NUGS, representing approximately 12.5 million Ghanaian students, argued that student representation in education governance has long been a democratic convention, ensuring credibility and effectiveness.
The Union warned that excluding students from the Board risks detachment from the realities of beneficiaries and could erode public confidence in the scholarship system.
In response, NUGS has:
- Rejected the current composition of the Scholarship Authority Board for failing to include student voices.
- Demanded urgent engagement between the government, the Scholarship Authority, and NUGS to correct the omission.
- Called on the President, Minister of Education, and relevant authorities to reconstitute the Board to include meaningful student representation nominated by NUGS.
- Advocated for an amendment to the Scholarship Authority Act to explicitly provide for student representation.
NUGS argued that while the Union remains committed to dialogue and cooperation, it will use all lawful means to ensure student voices are heard and respected.
Source: happyghana.com
