The Government of Ghana has announced plans to award more than 2,500 scholarships this year to both Ghanaian and ECOWAS students, with the full list of beneficiaries set to be published online from October 1, 2025.
Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, made the announcement during the Government Accountability Series at the Presidency on Monday, September 15.
Mr Ablakwa explained that the initiative, which began with President John Dramani Mahama’s April 2025 pledge to provide 1,000 scholarships to tertiary students across the ECOWAS sub-region, has now been expanded to include additional awards for Ghanaian students.
“More than 2,500 scholarships have been secured this year for Ghanaians and students from the ECOWAS sub-region. For the first time, we will publish the full list of beneficiaries online from October 1 to ensure transparency and fairness,” the Minister said.
He noted that the scholarships will target priority sectors such as medicine, engineering, agriculture, and technology, aligning with President Mahama’s agenda to link education with Ghana’s development goals.
Mr Ablakwa stressed that the move marks a decisive shift toward openness in scholarship administration.
“The era when scholarship awards were shrouded in secrecy is over. Every Ghanaian will be able to verify who has benefited and what they are studying. This level of openness is critical to restoring public confidence,” he stated.
Beyond its domestic impact, the initiative is expected to strengthen regional cooperation by allowing students from ECOWAS member states to study in Ghana, while creating opportunities for Ghanaian students to pursue programmes in neighbouring countries.
“This is about strengthening West African solidarity and nurturing a generation of skilled Africans ready to contribute to the region’s growth,” Mr Ablakwa added.