In a significant move aimed at addressing the longstanding challenges faced by Ghanaian students studying abroad, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, under the directive of Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has established a special department in Ghana’s diplomatic missions to cater specifically to students’ needs.
Announcing the initiative, Hon. Ablakwa, who serves as both the Member of Parliament for North Tongu and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated that this measure is part of the Mahama administration’s broader commitment to ending the frustration and neglect often experienced by Ghanaian students, particularly those on government scholarships.
“Student Desks have immediately been created in 11 countries where data confirms a high number of Ghanaian students currently studying in those countries.
“Diplomatic missions where these Student Desks have been created are: Abidjan, Beijing, Belgrade, Cotonou, Havana, Lome, London, Moscow, Rabat, Rome and Ottawa”.
Hon Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, MP for North Tongu and Minister of Foreign Affairs
The Foreign Affairs Minister further disclosed that the latest initiative will soon cover all diplomatic missions following the pilot phase, emphasizing that the move seeks to ensure that Ghanaian students abroad receive timely and adequate support when facing difficulties.
In a commendable effort to ensure cost-effectiveness, Hon. Ablakwa noted that the initiative does not impose any additional financial burden on the Ghanaian taxpayer.
Instead of recruiting new personnel, the Foreign Ministry has reassigned consular staff within these missions to handle student affairs.
Hon. Ablakwa indicated that the officials responsible for these roles are mandated to submit monthly reports to the Consular and Humanitarian Affairs Bureau, which will then forward them to the Foreign Minister for further action.
“The creation of this special department would not come at an extra cost to the Ghanaian taxpayer, neither would it require additional recruitment since the initiative relies on reassigning consular staff”.
Hon Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, MP for North Tongu and Minister of Foreign Affairs
Prioritizing Student Welfare
Hon. Ablakwa reiterated the Mahama administration’s resolve to end the era where Ghanaian students studying abroad, particularly those on government scholarships, are left stranded and neglected when they require urgent assistance.
The new Student Desks will offer a range of essential services, including facilitation of assistance in ensuring tuition and other academic fees are settled on time and provision of students with guidance on visa renewals, residence permits, and legal immigration matters.
Hon. Ablakwa also indicated that the establishment of the Student Desks will cater for medical emergencies, ensuring students receive prompt medical attention and necessary consular assistance in times of health crises.
Additionally, the Student Desks would assist with academic document authentication and coordination with Ghanaian institutions and provide housing and accommodation support to help students secure safe and suitable living arrangements.
Lastly, Hon. Ablakwa indicated that the initiative would provide evacuations and legal aid to offer support in cases where emergency evacuations or legal interventions are required.
The Foreign Minister assured that this initiative is only the beginning of a series of reforms designed to revamp and modernize Ghana’s foreign policy approach toward student welfare.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to resetting Ghana’s approach to international education support, stating, “More institutional reforms to follow. Together, we shall reset Ghana.”
With thousands of Ghanaian students studying abroad in various fields, this initiative is expected to significantly improve their academic and social experiences, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance in times of need.
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