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Tag: GETFund

  • Prof Akosa slams MPs over GETFund allocations amid economic hardships

    Prof Akosa slams MPs over GETFund allocations amid economic hardships

    A former Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Professor Agyeman Badu Akosa,Renowned pathologist and former Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Professor Agyeman Badu Akosa, has criticised the recent allocation of GETFund resources to Members of Parliament, describing it as unjustifiable amid the country’s economic challenges.

    According to Prof Akosa, Parliament recently disbursed GH¢200,000 to each MP for the execution of GETFund projects in their constituencies, alongside an additional GH¢150,000 strictly for monitoring those same projects — a move he labelled as excessive and unprecedented.

    “Last Friday, Parliament gave each Member of Parliament GH¢200,000 for GETFund projects and an additional GH¢150,000 to monitor those projects. There is nowhere in the world where you are given 75% of what you receive just to monitor a project. No, nowhere,” he stated.

    Prof Akosa expressed disappointment over the silence of MPs regarding the allocation, insisting they have failed to show the leadership required to ease the burden on ordinary Ghanaians.

    “Yet all the parliamentarians remained silent. They got the money; they got their ex-gratia; they got their car loans,” he remarked.

    He urged lawmakers to reflect on their responsibilities and realign their focus with the pressing needs of their constituents, who are grappling with the harsh effects of the current economic climate.

    “These are the people’s representatives, and meanwhile, the people are choking to death,” he lamented. “So please, our representatives, look back. Think about us. Think about us, and let’s all work together to move this country forward.”

    Prof Akosa’s comments come at a time when Ghanaians continue to raise concerns about the use of public funds and the accountability of elected officials. has criticised Members of Parliament for prioritising their personal interests over the welfare of their constituents.

    Speaking at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) Public Lecture Series on Friday, April 11, 2025, he stated, “Nobody is prepared to help anybody. Everybody is prepared to help themselves. And I know an Honourable Member is here, but let me say something.”

    “Last Friday, Parliament gave each Member of Parliament GH¢200,000 for GETFund projects and an additional GH¢150,000 to monitor those projects. There is nowhere in the world where you are given 75% of what you receive just to monitor a project. No, nowhere. Yet all the parliamentarians remained silent. They got the money; they got their ex-gratia; they got their car loans.”

    He urged MPs to reflect on their responsibilities and prioritise the needs of their constituents.

    “These are the people’s representatives, and meanwhile, the people are choking to death. So please, our representatives, look back. Think about us. Think about us, and let’s all work together to move this country forward,” he added.

  • Finance Minister vows to secure GETFund support for Swesco’s teacher accommodation

    Finance Minister vows to secure GETFund support for Swesco’s teacher accommodation

    Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has pledged to secure financial support from the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) to address teacher accommodation shortages at Swedru Secondary School (Swesco).

    Speaking as the guest of honour at the school’s 66th-anniversary celebration on Saturday, March 22, Dr. Forson acknowledged the dire need for improved housing for teachers. He assured the school’s leadership that he would push for GETFund intervention to resolve the challenge.

    “One of the challenges I observed here, and the headmistress also confirmed, is accommodation for teachers. Headmistress, I have heard your concern, I will talk to GETFund to complete the teacher accommodation,” he stated.

    Beyond addressing housing concerns, Dr. Forson also committed to enhancing healthcare facilities at Swesco. He announced his personal decision to fund the refurbishment of the school’s infirmary, promising to provide essential medical supplies and beds to improve student healthcare.

    “Headmistress, the school’s infirmary—I will personally support its completion. I will also provide beds and other medical equipment,” he assured.

    Encouraging students to stay committed to their studies, Dr. Forson emphasized the role of education in shaping their future, urging them to strive for academic excellence and contribute positively to society.

  • Govt uncaps GETFund, NHIL, Road Fund to increase investment in health, educational, road sectors

    Govt uncaps GETFund, NHIL, Road Fund to increase investment in health, educational, road sectors

    The Mahama-led government has removed expenditure restrictions on the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL), and the Road Fund to strengthen financing for critical sectors, including education, healthcare, and road infrastructure.

    Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson announced this policy shift while presenting the 2025 Budget Statement to Parliament on Tuesday, emphasizing the government’s commitment to improving essential public services.

    “Mr. Speaker, we have uncapped the National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL). An amount of GH¢9.93 billion has been programmed for the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS),” Dr. Forson stated.

    He explained that the NHIS funds would cover claim payments, essential medicines, vaccine procurement, Free Primary Healthcare, the newly introduced Ghana Medical Care Trust (MahamaCares), and bridging the USAID financing shortfall.

    As of July 2024, GH¢5.4 billion had been disbursed to support the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) programme, the School Feeding Programme, the Capitation Grant, and the NHIS since January 2023.

    On education, Dr. Forson highlighted a significant boost in funding for the Free Senior High School (SHS) programme, with GH¢3.5 billion allocated in the 2025 budget.

    “Mr. Speaker, this year, the budget for the free secondary education programme is GH¢3.5 billion. By uncapping the GETFund, we will be making available an additional GH¢4.1 billion to the GETFund,” he disclosed.

    The government aims to assess the state of Ghana’s education system and introduce evidence-based reforms, prompting a call for a National Education Conference.

    As of November 2024, the previous government had spent over GH¢12 billion on implementing the Free SHS policy since its inception in 2017.

    Dr. Forson also announced increased funding for road maintenance to improve the country’s road infrastructure.

    “Mr. Speaker, we have also uncapped the Road Fund. An amount of GH¢2.81 billion has been programmed for the Ghana Road Fund to be used solely for road maintenance. This represents an increase of 155.5% over the 2024 allocation of GH¢1.1 billion,” he stated.

    Addressing challenges in the road sector, the minister revealed that by the end of December 2024, total central government arrears/payables had reached GH¢67.5 billion, representing 5.2% of GDP, with the road sector alone accounting for GH¢21 billion.

    Upon assuming office on January 23, the Ministry of Finance was inundated with payment requests from government contractors and suppliers. To determine the total outstanding claims for all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), the Finance Ministry formally requested, on January 28, that MDAs submit information on all arrears/payables as of the end of 2024. The ministry then held special hearings with MDAs to validate the submitted figures.

    The removal of expenditure caps on these funds is expected to enhance the government’s ability to address financing gaps in key sectors, ensuring uninterrupted services and improved infrastructure.

  • GETFund financed my PhD – Justice Srem-Sai

    GETFund financed my PhD – Justice Srem-Sai

    The nominee for Deputy Minister of Attorney-General and Justice, Justice Srem-Sai, has revealed that the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) sponsored his doctoral studies at the University of Leeds.

    He stated that the government covered approximately £20,000 annually for his tuition costs.

    During his testimony before the Parliamentary Appointments Committee on February 26, 2025, he added, “My PhD abroad was funded by GetFund. GETFund has on record all the people and how much they have paid, I will recommend that GETFund can provide.”

    This follows previous reports indicating that various lecturers, including Srem-Sai, received GETFund scholarships to pursue advanced degrees.

    Meanwhile, the nominee for Deputy Minister of Attorney-General and Justice has advocated for an amendment to Article 71 of the 1992 Constitution as a potential solution to eliminate ex-gratia.

    He suggested that an alternative method, involving regular legislation, might offer a quicker resolution.

    “Abolish the payment of ex-gratia and cut out waste and ostentation in government. Address the disparities in the remuneration of Article 71 officeholders and the broader public service,” Mahama declared while launching the NDC’s manifesto in Winneba, Central Region, on August 24, 2024.

  • Sports Minister proposes allocating bet take Tax for Sports devt

    Sports Minister proposes allocating bet take Tax for Sports devt

    Sports Minister Kofi Adams has proposed that revenue from the betting tax be allocated to a dedicated sports fund to support the growth and development of the country’s sporting sector.

    He emphasized that directing a portion of the tax into this fund would ensure long-term sustainability for sports in Ghana.

    Additionally, the Buem constituency MP revealed plans to introduce a sports lottery as another means of generating revenue to further strengthen the sector.

    “I believe the time has come for this to be done. A percentage of the bet stake tax should be allocated to the sports fund. We will introduce a sports lottery,” he told Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

    Mr. Adams further highlighted the need for a structured sports fund, drawing comparisons to past government initiatives such as the GETFund for education and the Health Fund established during President Rawlings’ administration.

    “We established GETFund for education and the Health Fund to support health issues during President Rawlings’ era. We must recognize the importance of sports. Investing in sports can reduce diseases by promoting physical exercises and other activities,” he explained.

    Meanwhile, various stakeholders are advocating for greater financial investment to enhance sports infrastructure, athlete development, and overall management of the sector.

    However, this proposal differs from the Mahama administration’s position, as Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has announced plans to abolish the betting tax in the upcoming budget presentation to Parliament.

  • Over 3,000 educational projects completed in 8 years – Govt

    Over 3,000 educational projects completed in 8 years – Govt

    The government has announced the completion of over 3,000 educational projects across Ghana since 2017, underscoring its commitment to improving infrastructure and ensuring access to quality education for all citizens.

    In a statement by the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), the projects were highlighted as key achievements in addressing the nation’s educational needs. The completed initiatives include the construction of new classroom blocks, the renovation of existing facilities, and the establishment of modern science laboratories, libraries, and ICT centers.

    According to the Ministry of Education, these projects span all levels of education, from basic and senior high schools to technical institutions. The government’s focus on STEM education has also led to the creation of specialised facilities for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to equip students with skills for future careers.

    Some parents, teachers, and local communities have lauded the progress, noting significant improvements in students’ academic performance and overall school experience.

    The government has pledged to sustain these efforts, with plans for additional projects to meet the growing demands of the educational sector.

    GETFund_GENERAL_FACT SHEETDownload
  • GETFund will be uncapped to help NDC fund ‘No-fees policy’ for university freshers – Ablakwa

    GETFund will be uncapped to help NDC fund ‘No-fees policy’ for university freshers – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has revealed that a future National Democratic Congress (NDC) government plans to use the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) to finance its proposed ‘No-fees policy’ for first-year university students.

    This policy, announced during the launch of the NDC’s Youth Manifesto, aims to alleviate the financial burden on parents by covering the tuition fees for Level 100 students.

    Addressing concerns about the funding of the policy, which have emerged following criticisms of NDC’s 2024 flagbearer, John Mahama, Ablakwa clarified how the initiative would be supported.

    Critics have questioned the feasibility of the policy given Ghana’s economic conditions, suggesting it might be an unrealistic promise to secure votes.

    In an interview on Joy FM’s Newsfile on August 17, Ablakwa outlined that the Mahama administration plans to uncap GETFund as a key measure to generate the necessary funds.

    He explained that preliminary estimates suggest the policy would cost between GH₵250 million and GH₵300 million annually.

    Ablakwa emphasized that reversing the capping law, which currently limits the funds available to statutory bodies, would free up this amount.

    “We are advocating for two major changes to GETFund,” Ablakwa stated. “First, we need to uncap the fund. Second, we must stop the Daakye Bond and its collateralisation effects.” He criticized the incumbent government’s capping law, which has imposed ceilings on funds for statutory agencies, including GETFund.

    Ablakwa provided an example, noting that despite GETFund accruing GH₵7 billion, only GH₵3 billion was accessible due to the capping and obligations associated with the Daakye Bond. He assured that removing the cap and eliminating the collateralisation would unlock an additional GH₵4 billion, which would then be allocated to support the policy.

    In a related statement, John Mahama addressed funding concerns during a Youth Town Hall Meeting at Ho Technical University. He assured that the policy would be financed by redirecting funds from wasteful government expenditures.

    The NDC’s approach seeks to enhance access to tertiary education by eliminating fees for new university students, contingent on the party winning the upcoming elections.

    Meanwhile, a staff member of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Legal Directorate, Kingsley Amoakwa-Boadu, has affirmed the party’s support for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) proposal to scrap academic fees for all first-year tertiary students.

    He acknowledged that any policy aimed at improving access to tertiary education is welcomed by the NPP, as Ghana requires educated minds to drive its development.

    While expressing the NPP’s overall support for the policy, he emphasized that their primary concern lies with the practical implementation and financing of the NDC’s proposed initiative.

    He questioned how the policy would be executed effectively, noting inconsistencies in the NDC’s communication.

    “Our issue is how it is going to be implemented and financed,” Amoakwa-Boadu said.

    “The NDC is not speaking from one script. You have someone say this and the other say that. You get someone say it is for all public universities, and what about technical universities?”

  • Foreign scholarships by GETFund should be suspended – CSOs

    Foreign scholarships by GETFund should be suspended – CSOs

    Civil society organizations (CSOs) within the education sector are demanding an immediate halt to all foreign master’s program scholarships.

    Their stance is a direct response to an advertisement by the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) inviting applications for foreign master’s program scholarships, which the CSOs view as a misuse of scarce taxpayer resources.

    According to CSOs like Africa Education Watch (Eduwatch) and the Institute for Education Studies (IFEST-Ghana), GETFund’s actions are deemed illegal, deviating from its original mandate and contradicting its limited role in scholarship provision.

    Quoting Section 2(b) of the GETFund Act, 2000 (Act 581), CSOs emphasize that the fund is intended to supplement the National Scholarship Secretariat’s efforts in awarding scholarships to deserving yet financially needy students within Ghana, rather than directly managing foreign scholarships.

    IFEST strongly believes that financial accessibility is increasingly becoming the primary barrier to tertiary education due to the Student Loan Trust Fund’s (SLTF) unresponsiveness to student needs.

    The SLTF’s inadequate funding has resulted in around 30 percent of applicants being denied financial assistance for tertiary education.

    The average annual student loan amount of GH₵2,250 is insufficient to cover the expenses associated with tertiary education in Ghana, leaving students with limited options for managing their finances.

    Despite these challenges, GETFund is willing to cover the average cost of a one-year foreign Master’s scholarship, amounting to GH₵400,000.

    “For GETFund to even conceive the idea of awarding foreign Masters’ scholarships in Ghana today is unconscionable,” stated Peter Anti, Executive Director of IFEST.

    Given the 2023 Gross Tertiary Enrollment (GTE) rate standing at 19.2 percent alongside a 34 percent secondary-tertiary transition rate, particularly with Ghana’s remarkable 60 percent WASSCE pass rate in Core Subjects, the Ministry of Education (MoE) likely harbors concerns about the financial obstacles preventing senior high school graduates from pursuing further education.

    Additionally, the MoE may find cause for concern in the slow progress toward Ghana’s stated goal of achieving a 40 percent GTE by 2030, a target set in 2018. Despite five years passing, the rate has only increased by three percent from the previous 16.97 percent.

    “The decision to spend scarce education sector resources on foreign scholarships for Masters’ students who end up studying courses existing in Ghana is not only wasteful but does not represent prioritised spending in a sector with over 5,000 basic schools under trees, sheds and dilapidated structures in the 21st century,” Executive Director-Eduwatch Kofi Asare stated.

    Foreign scholarships and ‘Value for Money’

    An examination of non-bilateral public foreign scholarships in Ghana reveals that more than 95 percent of these programs are not only offered domestically at Ghanaian universities but also come with a 20-fold increase in costs for studying abroad. Such a scenario fails to guarantee value for money and should be discouraged, aligning with President Nana Akufo-Addo’s commitment to safeguard the public funds.

    Why parliament must oppose the move

    The CSOs have urged parliament to intervene and halt GETFund’s actions, citing the absence of provisions for such expenditures in its 2024 budget allocation.

    They clarified that parliament approved a GH₵3.9 billion allocation to GETFund in March 2024, following a specific distribution formula that did not encompass GETFund scholarships. Therefore, GETFund’s intentions to directly fund foreign scholarships in 2024/25 fall outside the approved expenditure items outlined in the 2024 GETFund formula ratified by parliament, rendering them unlawful.

    “We urge parliament to prevent GETFund from spending on foreign scholarships, not just because it is unapproved by parliament but also amounts to wasteful spending of taxpayers’ money,” they stated.

    The CSOs have additionally called on the Minister for Education, Yaw Osei Adutwum, to direct GETFund to halt the current foreign scholarship application process.

    Auditor-General on GETFund

    It’s worth noting that the Auditor-General, in the 2019 GETFund Performance Audit Report, advised GETFund to adhere to Section 2(b) of the GETFund Act, refrain from managing foreign scholarships, and instead allocate funds to the Scholarship Secretariat for scholarship management.

    This recommendation from the Auditor-General, endorsed by GETFund since 2020, should be maintained.

  • CSOs demand a halt in GETFund scholarships for international masters programs

    CSOs demand a halt in GETFund scholarships for international masters programs

    Civil society organizations (CSOs) in the education sector are demanding an immediate halt to all foreign master’s program scholarships.

    They argue that an advertisement by the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) for such scholarships is a misuse of taxpayers’ money and goes against the fund’s intended purpose.

    According to CSOs like Africa Education Watch (Eduwatch) and the Institute for Education Studies (IFEST-Ghana), the GETFund’s actions are illegal and do not align with its mandate.

    They cite Section 2(b) of the GETFund Act, 2000 (Act 581), which specifies that the fund should provide supplementary funding to the National Scholarship Secretariat for scholarships at second cycle and tertiary institutions within Ghana.

    IFEST strongly believes that access to finance is a major obstacle to tertiary education, particularly due to the inadequacy of the Student Loan Trust Fund (SLTF).

    The SLTF, being underfunded, fails to provide sufficient financial aid to needy students, leaving around 30 percent of applicants without access to loans.

    The current average student loan amount of GH₵2,250 per year falls short of covering the expenses associated with tertiary education in Ghana, making it difficult for students to afford their studies.

    However, GETFund is willing to support the average cost of a one-year foreign Masters scholarship worth GH₵400,000.

    “For GETFund to even conceive the idea of awarding foreign Masters’ scholarships in Ghana today is unconscionable,” stated Peter Anti, Executive Director of IFEST.

    With the 2023 Gross Tertiary Enrollment (GTE) rate stated to be 19.2 percent amid a 34 percent secondary-tertiary transition rate, especially when Ghana is recording an unprecedented 60 percent WASSCE pass rate in Core Subjects, the Ministry of Education (MoE) must be concerned about the inability of senior high school graduates to further their education due to financial challenges.

    The MoE must also be worried that Ghana’s set target to achieve 40 percent GTE by 2030 – as announced in 2018 – after five years has only moved up by three percent from the previous 16.97 percent.

    “The decision to spend scarce education sector resources on foreign scholarships for Masters’ students who end up studying courses existing in Ghana is not only wasteful but does not represent prioritised spending in a sector with over 5,000 basic schools under trees, sheds and dilapidated structures in the 21st century,” Executive Director-Eduwatch Kofi Asare stated.

    Foreign scholarships and ‘Value for Money’

    An assessment of non-bilateral public foreign scholarships in Ghana reveals that more than 95 percent of these programs are already offered by local Ghanaian universities.

    Moreover, studying abroad through these programs costs approximately 20 times more than studying locally.

    This lack of cost-effectiveness raises concerns about the judicious use of funds and contradicts President Nana Akufo-Addo’s commitment to safeguarding public finances.

    Why parliament must oppose the move

    The CSOs have urged Parliament to intervene by halting GETFund’s actions, citing a lack of budgetary allocation for such expenditures in the 2024 fiscal year.

    They clarified that Parliament approved a GH₵3.9 billion allocation to GETFund in March 2024, following a specific distribution formula that did not encompass scholarships.

    Therefore, GETFund’s plans to allocate funds directly to foreign scholarships in the 2024/25 period fall outside the approved expenditure items outlined in Parliament’s 2024 GETFund formula, rendering them illegal.

    “We urge parliament to prevent GETFund from spending on foreign scholarships, not just because it is unapproved by parliament but also amounts to wasteful spending of taxpayers’ money,” they stated.

    The CSOs have also urged the Minister for Education, Yaw Osei Adutwum, to instruct GETFund to cease the ongoing foreign scholarship application process.

    Auditor-General on GETFund

    It’s worth noting that the Auditor-General’s 2019 GETFund Performance Audit Report recommended adherence to Section 2(b) of the GETFund Act, urging GETFund to refrain from managing foreign scholarships and instead allocate funds to the Scholarship Secretariat for scholarship administration.

    This recommendation, endorsed by GETFund since 2020, should be maintained.

  • GETFund’s 18-classroom project in Tema to be locked up if GHS500,000 debt is unpaid

    GETFund’s 18-classroom project in Tema to be locked up if GHS500,000 debt is unpaid

    Contractor and creditor for 18-classroom blocks under the GETFund project, Amo Enterprise, threatens to re-lock TI Ahmadiya School classrooms in Tema over unpaid GH¢500,000 since project completion three years ago.

    Mba Aduku Abarighi, project engineer, states the company locked classrooms on April 30, 2024, due to GETFund’s inaction. However, they discovered classrooms reopened without consultation amid GETFund’s silence.

    Amo Enterprise plans to re-lock classrooms to protest non-payment by the government.

    TI Ahmadiyya School was locked on April 30, 2024, for non-payment of owed funds.

    Amo Enterprise claims the government has ignored pleas for payment, leading to the school’s closure.

    The project, costing GH¢1 million, received an initial GH¢500,000 payment from the government.

    The delayed payment was due to a two-year government review of project pricing.

    Amo Enterprise faced further frustration when their certificate went missing at GETFund’s office.

    They suspect deliberate obstruction from officials.

    Persistent bank harassment over outstanding loans adds to their distress.

    The project, initiated in 2019 and completed in October 2021, suffered from funding delays despite visible government spending.

  • Scholarship Secretariat is useless, it must be dissolved – Domelevo to govt

    Scholarship Secretariat is useless, it must be dissolved – Domelevo to govt

    Former Auditor-General, Daniel Domelevo, has denounced the Ghana Scholarship Secretariat for what he perceives as a lack of transparent guidelines in selecting deserving scholarship recipients.

    Mr Domelevo highlighted cases where scholarships intended for financially disadvantaged students were instead granted to politically influential individuals and their relatives.

    Following an investigation by The Fourth Estate, it was disclosed that scholarships meant for underprivileged students were awarded to individuals such as Gifty Oware-Mensah (formerly Oware-Aboagye), who received a government scholarship of GBP18,450 to pursue an MSc in Development Policy and Politics at the University of Birmingham in 2020.

    This occurred despite her tenure as Deputy Executive Director at the National Service Secretariat. Additionally, in the same year, she acquired Berry Ladies FC, a female football club in Ghana’s women’s premier league.

    During an appearance on JoyNews on April 8, 2024, Domelevo stressed the importance of exercising prudent judgment in public office and adhering to established guidelines to ensure fairness and impartiality in the distribution process.

    “In our audit report, one of our concerns was that according to the law, the monies should be given to the Scholarship Secretariat for them to administer, but then GETFund was administering it themselves.

    “I am told that has changed, so the money has been given to the Scholarship Secretariat, who, from my point of view, is administering scholarships 24/7.

    “But if this is how they are administering scholarships, then they are a complete waste. It is better if we scrap it. Not just waste; they are useless.

    “I wish I had a harsher word for them because 24/7 that is what they do, and they have not been able to come up with any guidelines to determine who qualifies for this to ensure they are within the remit of the law,” he stated.

  • Cost of sanitary pads for needy girls should be absorbed by GETFund – Gender advocates tell gov’t

    Cost of sanitary pads for needy girls should be absorbed by GETFund – Gender advocates tell gov’t

    Some gender advocates are proposing that the government seek alternative funding to cover the costs of sanitary pads for young girls who cannot afford them.

    One advocate, business consultant Dr. Nana Esi Amos Abanyin, recommends that the government allocate funds to provide free sanitary towels for young females.

    She suggests that the Ghanaian Education Trust Fund allocate a portion of its funds for the procurement of sanitary products to support girl child education.

    “The girls are home and not in school due to common factors, sanitary pads they cannot afford. The Get-Fund can at least allocate 0.1% or 1% specifically to support the girls. Although its sole focus is on building schools, it is only the males that will have access to it if the girls aren’t also catered for,” she said.

    There are demands on the government to lower the cost of sanitary pads, which are considered expensive due to high taxes.

    This issue is hindering the academic advancement of many young girls, forcing them to miss school to manage their menstrual needs.

    Dr. Abenyin emphasizes the importance of the government investing in educating young girls to empower them and promote a more equitable society.

    “If the girls are not educated well the government should forget it,” she stated.

    “We can still look within possibly the NHIS because that is health, to support the aspect of sanitary pad. We’re hoping the government can help support the distribution of sanitary pads, promote local production, and reduce the price to make sanitary pads affordable for everyone,” he said.

    They made these remarks during a gender advocacy symposium organized by Send Ghana in collaboration with I Believe Global and Kumasi Technical University. The event brought together students, market women, and other gender advocates to discuss Ghana’s efforts towards gender equity.

    The 2022 United Nations Voluntary National Review for the Sustainable Development Goals indicates that Ghana’s progress towards gender parity is steadily improving. The goal of gender parity seems achievable as parliament considers the Affirmative Action Bill, which was introduced 13 years ago but has not yet become law.

    Dr. Abenyin emphasizes the need for the country to focus deliberately on implementing measures for gender parity, stressing that women must vigorously pursue this cause.

    “If no action is taken and there is no way we can make progress. It’s apparent that external assistance for women may not be forthcoming. Hence, they must take the initiative to stand on their own and transform discussions into definitive actions,” she added.

    Director of I Believe Global, Professor Smile Dzisi, urged the public to challenge gender stereotypes. She argues that these stereotypes undermine women’s contributions and hinder their ability to assume leadership positions.

    “There is this perception that females cannot occupy certain positions very well. They think feminity is timidity, you can’t take bold decisions and that is a problem because we have great female leaders performing well,“ she said.

  • GETFund vows to sue contractor over alleged closure of school

    The Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) is embroiled in a contentious legal standoff with contractor Kontoh Sadea and Sons, as the contractor reportedly locks up the Akyem Asene Roman Catholic Basic School in the Asene-Manso-Akroso District of the Eastern Region over unpaid fees.

    According to reports, the contractor took the drastic action in response to what it claims is the government’s failure to compensate for work done after the school building was handed over eight years ago. The six-unit classroom block, which also includes offices, a computer lab, and a toilet facility, stands shuttered amid the dispute.

    In a statement issued by GETFund on Thursday, February 22, the organization refuted the contractor’s claims, asserting that all outstanding payments had been settled in accordance with the terms of the contract. The statement specified that an amount totaling GHC52,466.96, with REF no FIDELITY012, was disbursed to the subcontractor’s bank on March 7, 2023.

    “We wish to emphasize that the contended amount has been paid to the subcontractor, Kontoh Sadea and Sons, in accordance with our agreement,” the statement read.

    GETFund further underscored that upon the official handover of the school building on February 15, it became the property of the government. Consequently, any attempt by the contractor to close the school would be met with legal repercussions.

    “We shall be left with no other option than to pursue legal action if the school is closed down by the contractor or at their instructions,” the statement added.

    The closure of the Akyem Asene Roman Catholic Basic School underscores the far-reaching consequences of financial disputes within the education sector. As both parties stand firm in their positions, the fate of the school and its students hangs in the balance, pending resolution of the ongoing legal impasse.

  • Dispute over unpaid fees prompts closure of Akyem Asene Roman Catholic Basic School

    Dispute over unpaid fees prompts closure of Akyem Asene Roman Catholic Basic School

    The Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) is embroiled in a contentious legal standoff with contractor Kontoh Sadea and Sons, as the contractor reportedly locks up the Akyem Asene Roman Catholic Basic School in the Asene-Manso-Akroso District of the Eastern Region over unpaid fees.

    According to reports, the contractor took the drastic action in response to what it claims is the government’s failure to compensate for work done after the school building was handed over eight years ago. The six-unit classroom block, which also includes offices, a computer lab, and a toilet facility, stands shuttered amid the dispute.

    In a statement issued by GETFund on Thursday, February 22, the organization refuted the contractor’s claims, asserting that all outstanding payments had been settled in accordance with the terms of the contract. The statement specified that an amount totaling GHC52,466.96, with REF no FIDELITY012, was disbursed to the subcontractor’s bank on March 7, 2023.

    “We wish to emphasize that the contended amount has been paid to the subcontractor, Kontoh Sadea and Sons, in accordance with our agreement,” the statement read.

    GETFund further underscored that upon the official handover of the school building on February 15, it became the property of the government. Consequently, any attempt by the contractor to close the school would be met with legal repercussions.

    “We shall be left with no other option than to pursue legal action if the school is closed down by the contractor or at their instructions,” the statement added.

    The closure of the Akyem Asene Roman Catholic Basic School underscores the far-reaching consequences of financial disputes within the education sector. As both parties stand firm in their positions, the fate of the school and its students hangs in the balance, pending resolution of the ongoing legal impasse.

  • 2023/2024 scholarship portal for prospective students opened –  GETFund

    2023/2024 scholarship portal for prospective students opened –  GETFund

    Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) has started accepting applications for its local scholarship program for undergraduate and graduate students for the academic year 2023/2024.

    “The GETFund invites eligible candidates to apply for undergraduate (Diploma, HND & Degree) programmes, as well as graduate scholarships for the 2023/2024 academic year,” the Administrator of GETFund, Dr Richard Boadu, said.

    These scholarships will offer financial help to students pursuing Diploma, Higher National Diploma (HND), and Degree programs. 

    The goal is to support deserving students, allowing them to tap into their potential and pursue academic success. 

    During a media engagement, Dr. Boadu, urged potential applicants to take advantage of this opportunity to secure their future and explore various possibilities.

    “Whether you aspire to further your education in the arts, sciences, business or any other field, the GETFund Scholarship can assist you in achieving your goals,” he added.

    Application procedure

    Dr Boadu urged prospective applicants to visit the GETFund website: 

    https://getfund.scholarshipsplatform.com to complete the Online Application by filling out the online application form available on the portal.

    “Applicants must provide the required information and upload scanned copies of necessary documentation for vetting and shortlisting,” he added.

    Dr Boadu explained that after the submission, applications would undergo vetting processes, after which shortlisted applicants would be contacted for further instructions.

    He advised applicants to ensure that they follow the guidelines provided on the portal for a smooth application process.

    Dr. Boadu announced that the application period, which started on December 20, 2023, will close on January 31, 2024 highlighting that late applications won’t be considered, so it’s crucial to submit before the deadline. 

    Dr. Boadu warned against fraudulent activities during the application process, stating that any misrepresentation could lead to criminal proceedings.

    He mentioned that applicants cannot apply for the same degree (Undergraduate or Postgraduate) twice if they have already received a scholarship. Providing incorrect information will result in automatic disqualification. Continuing students should indicate the entire duration of their program, not just the remaining academic year.

    “Applicants are not allowed to apply for the same degree (Undergraduate, Postgraduate) twice if they have already received a scholarship,” he said, adding that providing incorrect information would lead to automatic disqualification”  he stated.

    Dr. Boadu highlighted factors that could lead to automatic disqualification, including failure to complete the application, submitting multiple applications, discrepancies between uploaded documents and information in the form, conflicting identities in documents, selecting incorrect schools or programs, and submitting blurred or incorrectly formatted documents.

    He emphasised that the entire application process is free, with no intermediaries involved. Any payments made to individuals or organisations related to the application process are at the applicant’s own risk.

  • Remove capping on GETFund allocation – Govt told

    Various stakeholders in the education sector have called upon the government to eliminate the cap placed on allocations to the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund).

    Additionally, they advocated for a comprehensive review of the Fund, with a focus on specific areas of educational support, particularly infrastructure provision, instead of the current general support structure.

    The plea was made during an open forum on higher education centered around the theme “Making the GETFund Fit for Purpose,” which was organized by the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences (GAAS) as part of its project on “Motivating Higher Education Reforms in Ghana – Towards Equity and Sustainability.”

    This forum provided a platform for open discussions regarding the financial challenges faced by the higher education sector.

    The Vice Chancellor of the University of Professional Studies – Accra (UPSA), Professor Abednego Feehi Okoe Amartey, highlighted the impact of the Earmarked Funds Capping and Realignment Act 2017, Act 947, on the resource allocation of the Fund.

    “The current 2.5 per cent VAT allocated to the Fund should be reviewed upwards, given the increasing student enrolment numbers in public tertiary institutions as well as the number of projects undertaken across the various university campuses,” he added.

    Professor Amartey emphasized the need for the GETFund to prioritize higher education institutions over the pre-tertiary sector, considering the current allocation of 12 percent to the latter as insufficient. He called for a collaborative effort involving multiple stakeholders to address financial challenges and identify sustainable sources of income to bolster the Fund.

    Dennis Asare, a Senior Research Associate at the Imani Centre for Policy and Education, suggested that the GETFund should explore innovative methods of raising funds to support its activities.

    “There is a need to improve their efficiency and encourage public-private partnerships to drive more support from the private sector,” he added.

    The Ghana Education Trust Fund was created in 2000 through the Ghana Education Trust Fund Act, 2000, Act 581. Its primary purpose is to offer supplementary funding to enhance government budgetary allocations at all educational levels.

  • 2020 GETFund scholarship list for politicians that provoked #OccupyJulorbiHouse protesters

    2020 GETFund scholarship list for politicians that provoked #OccupyJulorbiHouse protesters

    Amid the #OccupyJulorbiHouse protests, a group of online activists took on the task of bolstering the call for action and the demands of the protesters by sharing government-backed data.

    This data encompassed economic indicators, employment statistics, government intervention programs, and the expenditures of the executive branch of the government.

    These activists used the official hashtag #OccupyJulorbiHouse to disseminate this information through retweets and shares.

    However, one particular dataset triggered a significant and widespread reaction. This dataset originated from a 2020 list compiled by the scholarship secretariat.

    The source of outrage was the inclusion of current Members of Parliament (MPs) and individuals with political affiliations who had received substantial sums of money through these scholarships.

    Many individuals, seemingly encountering the GETFund Scholarships report by the Auditor-General for the first time, expressed vehement criticism toward the political elite for seemingly profiting from the hardships of the populace.

    Among the MPs who faced renewed scrutiny were Sarah Adwoa Safo, the representative for Dome Kwabenya, who received $30,000 for attending a Harvard conference.

    Similarly, Energy Minister Matthew Opoku Prempeh and Employment and Labour Relations Minister Ignatius Baffour-Awuah were also found to have received funds for various programs.

    The reactions to this revelation were as follows:

    “Whenever I see this list and notice certain names, I am filled with irrepressible rage. The niece of the Minister of Finance, who we were told was as rich as Mansa Musa, was given a scholarship designed for brilliant and needy Ghanaians,” an X user posted.

  • Over 4,000 tertiary students awarded govt scholarship

    Over 4,000 tertiary students awarded govt scholarship

    Through the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), the government has granted new scholarships to 4,279 students enrolled in various universities and colleges across Ghana.

    These scholarship recipients encompass both undergraduate and postgraduate students, spanning diverse academic disciplines.

    This year’s count signifies a significant increase of sixty-three percent (63%) in successful applicants, in contrast to the 2,704 individuals who received scholarships in 2022.

    To break down the statistics, a total of 2,951 awardees are pursuing diploma or degree programs, while 1,328 beneficiaries are engaged in master’s or PhD programs, encompassing both private and public colleges/universities within Ghana.

    Furthermore, out of the awardees, 1,963 individuals, constituting 46%, have chosen to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) related programs. On the other hand, 2,316 recipients, making up 54% of the awardees, are pursuing programs in the field of Humanities.

    As of August 2, 2023, the Fund has successfully disbursed a total amount of GH¢25,278,029.39 in fees to the accounts of institutions where the awardees are enrolled.

    Recalling events from December 2022, the GETFund had extended an open invitation to the general public for prospective applicants to apply for local scholarships through its dedicated online portal, created both for receiving scholarship applications and their subsequent management.

    The response was overwhelming, with a total of 22,000 applications submitted. This enthusiastic interest led the Board of Trustees of the Fund to expand the available slots to accommodate the current significant number of 4,279 recipients.

  • Over 4,000 tertiary students receive granted scholarships

    Over 4,000 tertiary students receive granted scholarships

    The Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) has granted new scholarships to a total of 4,279 students who are currently enrolled in various universities and colleges throughout Ghana.

    These scholarships encompass both undergraduate and postgraduate programs, spanning a diverse array of disciplines.

    This year’s count showcases a significant increase of 63% in successful applicants, compared to the 2,704 recipients in 2022.

    Breaking down the recipients by degree and program type, we observe that 2,951 are pursuing diploma or degree programs, while 1,328 beneficiaries are engaged in master’s or PhD programs, encompassing both private and public educational institutions in Ghana.

    Among the awardees, 1,963 (46%) are pursuing studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)-related fields, while 2,316 (54%) are dedicated to programs in the Humanities.

    As of August 2, 2023, the Fund has disbursed a total of GH¢25,278,029.39 in scholarship fees to the respective institutions where the awardees are studying.

    Recalling that in December 2022, GETFund opened applications for local scholarships through an online portal.

    The response was overwhelming, with a total of 22,000 applications submitted. In light of this strong interest, the Fund’s Board of Trustees decided to increase the number of available scholarships to the current figure of 4,279 recipients.

    However, it is worth noting that, as of August 2, 2023, approximately 300 successful applicants have yet to accept the scholarship offers sent to them via email. Despite efforts to reach out to them, the Fund has been unable to proceed with their documentation for further processing, as announced in a statement by GETFund.

    “It must be placed on record that as of August 2, 2023, about three hundred (300) successful applicants have still not accepted the scholarship offers sent to them via their email addresses, although efforts have been made to contact them. Hence, the Fund is unable to process their documentation for further action,” GETFund announced in a statement.

  • Proposed formula for GETFund distribution approved

    Proposed formula for GETFund distribution approved

    The proposed methodology for allocating the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) for the year 2023 has been accepted by Parliament.

    Under the formula, GH¢1.87 billion will be allocated to the fund, a reduction of over 28 per cent of the GH¢2.60 billion allocated to the fund in 2022.

    The money will be distributed for the promotion of Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET), completion of senior high school (SHS) projects, provision of basic schools, computer studies and technical education, among others.

    Per the report of the Committee of the Whole signed by its Chairman, Andrew Asiamah Amoako, who is also the Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament, a total of GH¢97.54 million (4.5 per cent) has been allocated to the Ministry of Education and institutions and agencies within the education sector, including allocations for the GETFund’s operations, Youth Employment Agency and the Scholarships Secretariat.

    Allocation

    For the period under review, the tertiary sub-sector has been allocated GH¢170 million, 7.84 per cent of total expected inflow from the national budget for this year to support a range of activities and interventions.

    The secondary education sub-sector has also been allocated GH¢167 million, 28.44 per cent of the total spending from the budget.

    Besides, GH¢88.5 million (4.08 per cent) has been made for funding various projects and programmes in basic education, mostly for the procurement of basic education textbooks.

    It was proposed that members of Parliament will receive support from the GETFund to enable them to undertake and monitor projects in their constituencies.
    To that effect, GH¢31.62 million, representing 1.46 per cent of total spending, has been allocated for that purpose. 

    Abandoned projects

    The report said the committee observed that in 2022, the GETFund put in place a three-year project aimed at completing all of its abandoned projects.

    It said as of December 31, 2022, a total of 2,405 projects had been completed during the period under review.

    “These projects were financed mainly from the disbursements of the bond proceeds and the enhanced monitoring activities undertaken,” it said.

    Fund’s bond after DDEP

    The report said the committee was informed that out of a total of GH¢2.62 billion being the total bonds in the Register, a total amount of GH¢1.35 billion has been exchanged, leaving the total outstanding bonds of GH¢1.26 billion.

    It said the Fund informed the committee that the remaining outstanding bonds  were expected to be exchanged within the shortest possible time.

    “The committee was, however, informed that the ambitious goal of completing abandoned projects, cannot be achieved within the three-year time frame.

    “Cost escalation as a result of rapid increase in prices due to the depreciation of the cedi against the major foreign currencies, coupled with high interest rates, continue to impact negatively on project costs,” it said. 

    Pending committed projects

    The report said the committee was also informed that the Fund had earmarked GH¢619.69 million required for pending projects to which contract was either awarded or committed.

    “The Fund informed the committee that insufficient funding is adversely affecting its efforts to complete its programmes and projects across the country.

    “The Fund, therefore, requested Parliament to urge the Ministry of Finance to make more resources available to the Fund to complete its programmes and projects,” the report said. 

    Debt service account  

    The committee observed that GH¢545.20 million was allocated for the servicing of the Daakye Bonds issued by the Fund for 2023, the report said.

    It said the committee noted that as part of the debt restructuring programme as agreed with the International Monetary Fund, the Daakye Bonds had now been classified as a public debt and now formed part of the Government of Ghana debts.

    “As a result, the GETFUND is no longer responsible for the service of the debt and, therefore, ought not to be a part of activities for the Fund for 2023,” it said.

    Recovery of shortfall for 2022

    The committee observed that under the proposed distribution formula, GH¢619.69 million had been earmarked as recovery of 2022 shortfall.

    The amount, the Fund explained, was in respect of 2022 arrears which when released would be used to clear all outstanding commitments.

    Digitalisation of teaching and learning systems

    The report said the committee observed that GH¢550 million was provided under the distribution formula for 2023 for the digitalisation of teaching and learning systems for SHS and TVET students.

    The Fund informed the committee that they entailed the provision of tablets fully loaded with all recommended e-textbooks, the full syllabus, past questions and examiner reports as well as other teaching aids.

    “The goal of the programme is to reduce the cost of procuring textbooks and to prepare students for the ICT driven world.

    “The tablets are cloud-based, making it easy for updates to be effected and come with solar packs to enable easy charging irrespective of location,” the report said. 

    Funding gap

    Per the report, the committee observed that for the year 2023, GH¢1,869,563,000 was allocated to the Fund in the 2023 budget statement presented to the House and approved by Parliament.

    It said the committee further noted that the total cost of the programme and activities contained in the proposed distribution formula amounted to GH¢2,169,563,000, leaving a shortfall of GH¢300,000,000.

    “The Fund informed the committee that it engaged the Ministry of Finance over the issue and that the Fund had been assured that GH¢300,000,000 would be provided to the Fund to meet the gap,” the report added.

  • Student loans: Over 5000 students have been paid – NUGS

    Student loans: Over 5000 students have been paid – NUGS

    The Student Loan Trust Fund (SLTF) has begun disbursing student loans, according to the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS).

    The National Union of Ghana Students and the University Students Association of Ghana (USAG) had been exerting pressure on the Student Loan Trust Fund to distribute monies to applicants for months.

    In an interview with Citi News, NUGS President, Dennis Appiah Larbi stated that over 5,000 students have already received their loans, with the Student Loan Trust Fund promising to disburse funds to other applicants yet to receive the loan.

    “At our last meeting, the CEO of the SLTF said the first disbursement was going to made on the 14th of March. True to his word, our students started receiving their payments. As I speak to you, over 5000 students have been paid as the first batch. With my latest engagement with the SLTF, they said they are working to pay the second batch. So, I can confirm that some students have received their loan payment.”

    Dennis Appiah Larbi also urged the government to prioritize the Student Loan Trust Fund and uncap the GETFund to ensure student loan repayment.

    “Our belief is that the funds from GETFund to the students’ loan can be facilitated if GETFund is uncapped. So we call on government to listen to our petition and uncap GETFund. Government must add some political commitment to the running of the SLTF. That is the only way we are able to ensure regular disbursement to our students.”

    Both NUGS and the University Students Association of Ghana have in recent times been mounting pressure on the Student Loan Trust Fund to release funds to students.

    USAG for instance hinted at plans to resort to all legal means including picketing and demonstration to press home their demand for the disbursement of student loans.

    Dennis Appiah Larbi further appealed to past beneficiaries of the student loan to repay the loans in order to sustain the Fund as government funding to the agency delays.

  • NUGS, EduWatch wants Parliament to uncap GETFund

    NUGS, EduWatch wants Parliament to uncap GETFund

    The Ghana Education Trust Fund’s cap needs to be removed immediately, according to a petition submitted to Parliament by the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) and Eduwatch (GETFund).

    The group claims that a decrease in education funding has occurred as a result of the GETFund’s cap.

    “Our concern primarily stems from the concerns of declining funding for education which emanates from GETFund.

    Act 947 especially for the GETFund part is an enemy of the progress of education in Ghana,” the group said.

    NUGS, EduWatch petition Parliament to uncap GETFund

    Dennis Appiah Larbi Ampofo, the national president of NUGS, explained that the decline in funding has had a negative impact on the distribution of funds to the Student Loan Trust Fund and other educational organisations when he presented the petition to the Education Committee of Parliament on March 16.

    “Our biggest problem started in 2023 when we realised that it was not a boardroom discussion again. It’s a matter of deliberate attempts to deprive students in this country of the requisite funding needed to run an educational sector. The necessary funds (which are) supposed to be released to the agencies have ceased,” he said.

    NUGS, EduWatch petition Parliament to uncap GETFund

    The student body appealed to the committee to reject the 2023 proposed formula for the disbursement of GETFund.

    “We stand at the crossroad where the fate of our young students lies in your hands. First, we reject the formula without any equivocation. We can only have a comfortable discussion about the future of education when the fund meant for education is guaranteed by this House.

    “We call on you to reject the 2023 proposed formula and move steps to immediately uncap GETFund. Uncapping GETFund is a communal labour,” they added.

    NUGS, EduWatch petition Parliament to uncap GETFund

    The Executive Director of education think tank, Africa Education Watch, Kofi Asare who was also present during the presentation of the petition, said the committee must take a decision by Monday, March 20, to save the education sector from collapse.

    “Let’s respect the fact that education funds are meant for education, it’s as simple as that. We hope that by Monday the select committee will take a decision,” he said.

    Additionally, the ranking member on the Constitutional and Legal Committee, Bernard Ahiafor backed the claim by the student body, stressing that the government failed to pay in full the monies allocated to GETFund.

    NUGS, EduWatch petition Parliament to uncap GETFund

    “Several attempts made to ensure that the full amount of VAT paid by Ghanaians to be released to the GETFund for financing education in this country, is to no avail. In the 2023 budget for instance, if we look at page 190, it is stated clearly that the projected revenue for the 2.5% VAT meant for GETFund is GH₵4.65 billion.

    “Now if you go to page 191 it is stated their expenditure items is only GH₵1.8 billion out of the GH₵4.65 billion that will be released to the fund and a cause for worry,” he bemoaned.

    NUGS, EduWatch petition Parliament to uncap GETFund

    The MP for Akatsi South accused the government of attempting to collapse the fund.

    He said even the small amount that is supposed to be released to GETFund by government is in arrears and that if the situation continues like this, then it is fair to conclude that “this current government intends to collapse the GETFund.”

    However, he assured that the minority “will do everything possible to ensure that whatever is supposed to be released to GetFund is released, so that the fund does not collapse.”

  • Give us access to the dormitory block completed 2yrs ago – Asanteman SHS to govt

    Give us access to the dormitory block completed 2yrs ago – Asanteman SHS to govt

    Over two years after it was finished, the GETFund-built girls’ dormitory block for Asanteman Senior High School is still not open for use.

    While the school is grappling with accommodation challenges due to the huge infrastructural deficit it is facing, authorities of the school say they are unable to use the new facility due to security concerns.

    The authorities say the location of the new dormitory is outrun by squatters which makes it dangerous to move students there without the necessary measures.

    Assistant Headmistress in charge of Domestic, Georgina Osei, said the dormitory has been completed, but a water system is yet to be fixed “but we can make use of the dormitory while we wait for the water to be added.”

    “Because of the challenges of space here, we are thinking of sending some of the form ones there. We have spoken to the relevant authorities, and we wrote to the regional director of education and the regional minister but nothing was done about the security concerns that we raised.”

    “We will be happy if the authorities can come to our aid so that the place will be secured for us for use,” Madam Osei further appealed.

    On his part, the Kumasi Metropolitan Educational Director, David Oppong, said: “the discussions and consultations that we have done with the headmaster indicate that the block is completed, but the problem is that they have to be supplied with water which hasn’t yet been done. The second issue has to do with security because a number of squatters have taken up the place. So before the students can be accommodated in that dormitory, the security must be beefed up. The discussion we had with the management is that while waiting for the government to recruit security personnel to the school, the PTA should step in and hire temporary staff to secure the place, so the students can be moved there.”

  • 160 KG blocks completed, 190 under construction – Akufo-Addo reveals

    160 KG blocks completed, 190 under construction – Akufo-Addo reveals

    The Government has completed 160 kindergarten (KG) blocks out of the 350 under construction, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has disclosed. 

    He said several dilapidated KG blocks, meant to expand the base of early childhood education, had also been rehabilitated. 

    President Nana Akufo-Addo made this known at the inauguration and handing-over of the Kwabenya Atomic Model Kindergarten (KG), Ghana’s first play-based ICT-empowered KG, at Dome-Kwabenya, in the Ga-East Municipality of the Greater Accra Region. 

    The project, executed by Messrs. BSW International, was funded by the Ghana Education Trust (GET) Fund. 

    The President indicated that improving educational infrastructure was critical to creating access for the Ghanaian youth to be educated to an appreciable standard. 

    Therefore, the Government was determined to inject the needed resources to achieve the desired educational goals to enhance the nation’s human resource base, he noted. 

    President Nana Akufo-Addo said promoting quality and inclusive early education helped to build the cognitive abilities of the child. 

    This was also needed to promote the core competencies of Ghanaian children, as well as language and physical development, he said. 

    He hinted that the country was reviewing its educational curriculum from an objective-based to standard-based, saying this was being implemented to nurture a generation of critical-thinkers. 

    This was required to bring Ghana’s educational development in tune with the demands of the 21st Century, he said. 

    President Nana Akufo-Addo was optimistic the Kwabenya Atomic Model KG would provide a world class early childhood education. 

    Source: GNA 

  • Due to the chaotic economy, students cannot afford the 15% fee increase – Dr. Apaak

    Students in higher education cannot afford the 15 percent increase in tuition costs at public universities, according to Dr. Clement Apaak, the deputy ranking member of the Select Committee on Education.

    His remarks follow the approval by Parliament of a 15% maximum increase in university tuition for the upcoming academic year.

    The National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) has expressed disapproval of claims that some universities charge 30%, nonetheless.

    NUGS says the move is unacceptable considering the prevailing economic hardship in the country.

    Throwing his support for the students, the lawmaker stated the challenges have to do with the GETFUND capping.

    “Students cannot afford a 15% fee increase in this shambolic economy, universities are struggling to function due to inadequate funding so want to charge students more than 15%. The de-capping of GETFUND is the solution, universities will get support, and the government must do the needful,” Dr. Apaak stated.

    Meanwhile, the University Students Association of Ghana (USAG) has also opposed the increase in the fees of public universities for the 2022/2023 academic year.

    In a statement, the USAG stated that “the recent astronomical hikes in school fees of public universities in the country, will make access to education become increasingly difficult.

    “The procedure for approval of Public University fees is very clear, and this approval does not stop at Management or at University Councils. Our universities are supposed to send their proposed fees to Parliament through the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission and the Ministry of Finance. Subject to the passing of the recent Fees and Charges Act, 2022, the final approving authority is not the university management but Parliament.”

  • GETFund pays over ¢600m claims to 867 contractors

    The Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), has settled part of outstanding debts owed contractors to the tune of GH¢667,793,936.27 as of November 2022.

    This was in fulfilment of a promise made by the Administrator of GETFund, Dr. Richard Ampofo Boadu, on Tuesday, November 8, 2022, at the Stakeholder Engagement Forum organised by the Fund, held at the Academy of Arts and Sciences, Accra.

    Dr. Boadu had assured the gathering that processes had commenced to settle claims covering 867 certified Interim Payment Certificates (IPCs) on projects and supplies across the levels of education.GETFund contracts.

    GETFund pays over ¢600m claims to 867 contractors

    The Administrator had indicated how payments were going to be made via the mix of the funding sources; proceeds from Daakye Plc Bond Issuance and the government releases through the Controller and the Accountant General’s Department (CAGD) to the coffers of the Fund.

    The highly patronised forum was graced by the Education Minister, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, among other key stakeholders in the education sector.

    The processes for the said payments that began mid-October 2022 with the signing of novation agreements with contractors covering 867 claims ended in November 2022 with the accounts of all contractors duly credited.GETFund contracts

    Breakdown of Payments

    1. The paid claims covered 271 for basic schools’ projects amounting to GH¢40,925,832.52.
    2. The payments for second-cycle schools covered 351 certificates with a total sum of GH¢434,732,042.82.
    3. A total of 242 tertiary institution claims were paid to the tune of GH¢188,845,374.61.
    4. Other claims from the Ministry of Education paid, amounted to GH¢3,290,686.32.
    GETFund pays over ¢600m claims to 867 contractors

    It must be noted that the Daakye payments covered mainly emergency projects that were awarded between 2017 — 2022 and certificates were received and processed by 30 September 2022.

    The tertiary claims covered about 92% of certificates on legacy projects inherited by the current administration, received and processed by 30 September 2022, by the Fund.

    “GETFund would like to assure contractors that plans are in place to settle all outstanding certificates in an effort to complete stalled projects in our schools within the next three years”, a statement from the Fund mentioned.

    Source: myjoyonline

  • Eduwatch petitions Parliament to reject insufficient GETFund budget allocation

    Africa Education Watch has protested the budget allocation of GH¢1.8 billion made to the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) as stated in the 2023 budget statement presented to Parliament.

    The core mandate of the GETFund is to provide funding to supplement government efforts for the provision of educational infrastructure and facilities within the public sector from the pre-tertiary to the tertiary level.

    According to a petition submitted to Parliament by the Education Policy Research and Advocacy Organisation, the current allocation is scanty and won’t do enough to close the infrastructure gap in the education sector. 

    Eduwatch mentioned that there are over 5,000 schools existing under trees, sheds and dilapidated structures, while 1.2 million children are not in basic school, among others due to the lack of public basic schools in underserved communities.

    “The widening infrastructure gap constricts the realisation of the objectives of the government’s free Compulsory Universal Basic Education under section 38(2) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.

    “It is therefore unfortunate to learn that, not only did the Finance Minister fail to uncap the GETFund, but this year’s allocation is the lowest percentage of accruals in the history of the Fund, raising questions about the legal basis for allocating only 39% of GETFund Levy accruals to the GETFund,” portions of the petition dated December 14 read.

    The organisation is of the assertion that at least GH¢2.7 billion, representing 60% of the total 2022 GETFund Levy accruals of GH¢4.6 billion, should be allocated to the GETFund for 2023.

    In view of the challenges highlighted above, has entreated Parliament to “reject the allocation and cause the Minister of Finance to review the weights applied in allocating the GETFund.”

    This, the institution says, must be in line with the Earmarked Funds Capping and Realignment Act, 2017 (Act 947), and the increasing infrastructure gap in the education sector, especially basic education.

    Eduwatch insists the Legislature must rectify the continuous decline in the allocation to the GETFund, despite a consistent increment in the GETFund Levy.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • Eduwatch petitions Parliament to reject GH₵1.8bn allocation to GETFund

    The Africa Education Watch has petitioned Parliament to reject the allocation of GH¢1.8 billion made to the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), a major education infrastructure financing facility in Ghana.

    A petition to the leadership of Parliament stated that the group is guided by the GETFund Law, 2020 (Act 581) and the Earmarked Funds Capping and Realignment Law, 2017 (Act 947).

    According to Africa Education Watch, the sharp decline in the 2023 allocation raises serious concerns about the formula used in capping the GETFund in the 2023 budget, and whether it is in accordance with the Earmarked Funds Capping and Realignment Law.

    “Going by the 25% capping under the Earmarked Funds Capping and Realignment Act, 2017 (Act 947) and the history of allocations in line with same, we estimate that, at least GH¢2.7 billion, representing 60% of the total 2022 GETFund Levy accruals of GH¢4.6 billion should be allocated to the GETFund for 2023.

    “The continuous decline in the allocation to the GETFund, amidst consistent increment in the GETFund Levy, remains a serious worry for stakeholders concerned about the widening infrastructure gap in the education sector, especially at the basic education level.

    “As you may be aware, there are over 5,000 schools existing under trees, sheds and dilapidated structures, while 1.2 million children are not in basic school, among others due to the lack of public basic schools in underserved communities. The widening infrastructure gap constricts the realization of the objectives of the government’s free Compulsory Universal Basic Education under section 38(2) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.

    “It is therefore unfortunate to learn that, not only did the Finance Minister fail to uncap the GETFund, but this year’s allocation is the lowest percentage of accruals in the history of the Fund, raising questions about the legal basis for allocating only 39% of GETFund Levy accruals to the GETFund.

    “As Parliament prepares to consider the appropriation estimates for the education sector, we are drawing the attention of the House to the requirements of 25% capping of GETFund viz the 61% of GETFund Levy accruals being reallocated to other sectors, leaving only 39% for allocation to the GETFund.

    “Eduwatch calls on Parliament to reject the allocation and cause the Minister of Finance to review the weights applied in allocating the GETFund, in line with the Earmarked Funds Capping and Realignment Act, 2017 (Act 947), and the increasing infrastructure gap in the education sector, especially basic education.”

     

  • Eduwatch petitions Parliament against 2023 GETFund allocation

    Africa Education Watch (otherwise known as Eduwatch) is unhappy about the budget allocation for the GETFund. It thus has petitioned Parliament to reject the allocation of ₵1.8 billion made to the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund).

    According to Eduwatch the allocation of ₵1.8 billion raises serious concern about the formula used in capping the GETFund in the 2023 budget, and whether it is in accordance with the Earmarked Funds Capping and Realignment Law.

    The ₵1.8 billion GETFund allocation forms only 39% of the GETFund levy accruals which are meant to be used to finance education projects and activities.

    This a sharp decline from the previous year’s 81% allocation.

    “Going by the 25% capping under the Earmarked Funds Capping and Realignment Act, 2017 (Act 947) and the history of allocations in line with same, we estimate that, at least ₵2.7billion, representing 60% of the total 2022 GETFund Levy accruals of ₵4.6billion should be allocated to the GETFund for 2023,” Eduwatch said in a statement to Parliament.

    They added that the continuous decline in the allocation to GETFund, amidst consistent increment in the GETFund Levy, has remained a significant issue of worry for stakeholders concerned about the widening infrastructure gap in the education sector, particularly at the basic education level.

    Source: Myjoyonline

  • What moral right does Akufo-Addo have to increase VAT by 2.5% when he led Kume Preko demo – Minority

    The minority in parliament has said they will resist every effort by government to increase VAT by 2.5 per cent adding that the increment will worsen the cost of living for Ghanaians.

    According to Haruna Iddrisu, the president has no moral right to increase VAT after he led the demo in 1995 for the same tax increment that claimed five lives.

    Speaking at a press conference, he said, “Whilst whittling away the little we have as a country in this intransigent manner, the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government has decided to pile more hardships on the people of Ghana through the introduction of more taxes in the 2023 Budget presented to Parliament.”

    He added, “The most punitive among these taxes is the addition of 2.5% to the VAT rate bringing it to a cumulative 21.5% (made up of 2.5% GETFund, 2.5% National Health Insurance, 1% Covid Levy and 15% VAT all levied under the terms of Value Added Act, Act 870) the highest in Africa. What moral right does President Akufo-Addo have to increase VAT by 2.5% when he led the ‘KUMI PREKO’ demonstration in 1995 resulting in the loss of five lives. As sure as night follows day, this will worsen the hardship faced by Ghanaians, as the prices of almost all items will increase instantaneously once this tax comes into effect.”

    Haruna Iddrisu said the minority will no longer allow a government that is “determined to waste Ghana’s resources on extravagant living.”

    Government has announced an increment in Value Added Tax (VAT) by 2.5 percent for consumers of goods and services.

    The move, according to government is expected to improve government’s domestic revenue measures while seeking to reach an IMF deal to restore macroeconomic stability.

    “Mr. Speaker, we will undertake the following actions, initiatives, and interventions under the seven-point agenda. To aggressively mobilize domestic revenue, we will among others: Increase the VAT rate by 2.5 percent to directly support our roads and digitalization agenda; Fast-track the implementation of the Unified Property Rate Platform programme in 2023; and Review the E-Levy Act and more specifically, reduce the headline rate from 1.5% to one percent (1%) of the transaction value as well as the removal of the daily threshold,” he said.

    The Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, made this known in parliament when he delivered the 2023 budget before lawmakers on Thursday, November 24, 2022.

    But the minority has vowed to oppose this VAT increment.

  • Government fails to meet at least 15% budgetary allocation benchmark for education

    Government in the 2023 Budget Statement has only allocated 12 percent to the education sector which is about three to eight percent short of the international benchmark of at least 15 percent to 20 percent, a situation the Africa Education Watch (Eduwatch) describes as alarming.

    In the budget statement, out of the projected government expenditure of GH₵205billion, only GH₵24.7billion, representing 12 percent of the total budget, is allocated to the education sector.

    Meanwhile, at the Global Education Summit held in July 2021 in the United Kingdom (UK), President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo pledged to spend at least 23 percent of the national budget toward the development of education in the country over the next medium term from 2021 to 2025.

    According to Eduwatch, this is not only one of the lowest proportions of government budget allocation to the education sector in about two decades, but also raises concerns about Ghana’s ability to meet the upper limit of the international education financing benchmark of 15 percent to 20 percent of public expenditure, and 4 percent to 6 percent of gross domestic product (GDP).

    Even more alarming, according to Eduwatch, is that only 39 percent (GH₵1.8billion) of the GH₵24.7billion was allocated to Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), against total GETFund levy accruals of GH₵4.6billion for education financing.

    Furthermore, out of the total allocation to education, GH₵2.7billion, representing 12.1 percent of the total education allocation, is earmarked for Capital Expenditure (CAPEX), where education infrastructure is financed.

    This, compared to the 2022 allocation of GH₵1.4billion, represents an increase of 92 percent but is still too insignificant to tackle the gargantuan education infrastructure needs, hence, fewer infrastructure projects outcome should be expected.

    “The declining proportion of the national budgetary allocation to the education sector has a strong potential to negatively affect the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG-4) targets, especially at the basic education level. Government must take steps to augment the deficit in the 2023 supplementary budget, and revise the medium-term expenditure framework to reflect its international commitments on education financing, as well as the real needs of the sector,” Eduwatch lamented.

    The Executive Director of Eduwatch, Kofi Asare, has called on Parliament to interrogate the Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori Atta, about why the 25 percent capping of the GETFund could possibly lead to an allocation of only 39 percent of accruals to the GETFund levy, adding that the continuous capping of GETFund is inimical to education development, especially at the basic level where the infrastructure gap continues to widen.

    Out of the total allocation to education, GH₵4.9billion, representing 21.4 percent of the education budget is allocated to goods and services.

    This, compared to the 2022 allocation of GH₵4.4billion, does not only represent an increase of 11 percent, but indicates an increase in the proportion of the education budget spent on goods and services from 17.9 percent in 2022 to 21.4 percent in 2023.

    Out of this Gh₵2.95 billion representing 60 percent is earmarked for financing the free Senior High School (free SHS) programme. This constitutes an increase of 26 percent from the 2022 allocation of Gh₵2.3 billion.

    Infrastructure deficit at basic level

    There are 1.2 million children out of basic school in Ghana, mainly because of huge deficits in the availability of public basic schools in underserved communities.

    This, coupled with the over 5,000 basic schools taking place under trees, sheds, and dilapidated structures, and the lack of Junior High Schools in about 4,000 primary schools must be enough reason for the government to listen to calls by Parliament and Civil Society for uncapping the GETFund.

  • Upper West: 33,868 students benefit from Free SHS, says minister

    At least 33,868 students in the Upper West Region have benefited from the government’s flagship Free Senior High School programme, according to official figures.

    Addressing journalists over the weekend, the regional minister Hafiz Bin Salih attributed the increment in secondary school enrolment in his region to the visionary leadership of President Nana Akufo-Addo in making education accessible to all.

    “The introduction of the Free SHS programme in 2017 saw all 35 public SHS/SHTS/TVET schools in the region being enrolled onto the programme. So far, the programme has benefited 33,868 students in the region,” Salih said.

    He said though the region was faced with the challenge of inadequate infrastructure when the programme was first introduced in 2017, the government through the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) has completed 33 new educational projects, with 11 facilities being constructed in different areas within the region.

    “In addition, from 2017 to date, the GETFund has completed 33 new infrastructural facilities, and 11 new facilities is in progress. These projects include dormitories, classrooms, science laboratories, administrative blocks, accommodation among others,” he added.

    In addition, the minister said strenuous efforts are being made to complete a further 52 stalled GETFund projects in the region. These projects, he said, include some critical infrastructure including the Hilla Limann Technical University, some senior high schools and basic schools across the region.

     

  • GETFund raises GH¢3.42 billion from loans, bonds

    The Ghana Education Trust (GET) Fund has provided an update on its earnings from loans and bonds as of July 2022.

    According to the Fund, a total of GHC 3.4 billion has been raised by the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) through its loans and bonds programme as of June this year.

    This was revealed by the Financial Controller at GETFund, Alexis K. Asuinura, during a conference on education financing organised by Africa Education Watch in Accra.

    Giving a breakdown of the figure, Mr Asuinura indicated that GH¢1.567 billion was raised from syndicated loans; GH¢ 2.622 billion from bond proceeds; syndicated loans refinanced was GH¢ 1.214 billion; total net proceeds were GH¢ 2.975 billion while that of syndicated loans Debit Service Reserve Account (DSRA) was GH¢ 443 million.

    Getting into how the fund was spent, GETFund indicated that it was used for the construction of classrooms and dormitories, the building of new model schools, the construction of a TVET centre of excellence, the purchase of buses, furniture, teaching and learning materials, and 2016 unpaid claims and certificates resulting from ongoing projects.

    According to GETFund, it has initiated over 2259 projects across the country since 2017. Out of this, 1,131 fall under projects for basic school education, while secondary education, model schools, TVET Centres, and tertiary education had 1052, nine, five, and 54, respectively.

    About the GETFund

    The Ghana Education Trust (GET) Fund is a public trust set up by the Ghanaian Government to support the delivery of quality education to citizens from the basic to tertiary level through dynamic funding policies aimed at ensuring the equitable provision of essential resources for all levels of education to all segments of the Ghanaian population.

    Created by Act 581 of 2000, the primary objective of the GETFund is to provide finance to supplement the provision of education still underground to leave the mine through the exit points where public security personnel are stationed.

    The company also pleaded to work with authorities to ensure that activities at all levels.

    The sources of funding of the GETFund is 2.5 per cent value added tax(VAT)or any other higher rate as Parliament may determine; investment income; Parliament allocations; grants, donations and gifts and vested property.

    GETFund outstanding projects

    Speaking on ongoing projects, Mr. Asuinura mentioned that the fund currently has about 3,609 active projects. Out of this, there are 1,805 continuing projects in basic education, there are 1,394 in senior high schools, nine in model schools, 65 in E-blocks, three in TVET Centres, and 333 in tertiary.

    Also, between 2019 and 2021, vehicles distributed to the various agencies and institutions under the Ministry of Education summed up to 2,718. Regarding furniture, 677,470 items had been distributed to basic and secondary schools within the same period.

    He disclosed that this year, the GH¢ 1.1 billion they had targeted to raise wouldn’t be possible to do so because investors were asking for more, and they wouldn’t be able to give that due to the current high inflation rate.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • GhCCI demands GH¢10bn debt arrears owed by gov’t for work done by members

    The Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry (GhCCI) is demanding a total of GH¢ 10 billion as debt arrears owed by government for various development projects executed by its members.

    They have therefore threatened to go to court if government failed to fulfill its financial obligation to the contractors to retrieve their monies.

    The Chief Executive Officer of GhCCI, Mr Emmanuel Cherry, disclosed this at a news conference in Accra yesterday to brief the media about the outcome of the chamber’s 4th annual general conference held at Koforidua in the Eastern Region.

    It was on the theme; “financing and funding methodology for infrastructure development: The case of GhCCI and delayed payments with associated interest and matters arising”.

    According to Mr Cherry, the debt government owed the contractors had been in existence since 2016 adding “This does not include interest and other associated costs.”

    “This debt includes roads fund, COCOBOD, consolidated fund as well as  Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund). We’re even being charitable because if we should log all together with interest upon interest on delay payments, it will be more than that. So just imagine, government owing contractors such portfolios, you can imagine what it can do for the economic fibre of the country,” he added.

    He stated that, the delay in payment had taken a toll on their businesses and causing most of its members to incur more debts on the loans they acquired in executing the projects.

    “We’ve waited for too long and the time has come. We know government has tried but the approach is not the best so that’s the reasons why we are saying, the chamber together with the government through the Ministry of Finance will be calling for a stakeholder engagement.

    “We have certain recommendations and solutions that we want to table and we believe if government should buy into that, it will help us all collectively to settle some of this course once and for all. But if it should drag, we have no other choice than to fight for the collective interest of our members,” he said.

    Mr Cherry called on government through GETFund, Ghana Road Fund and Ghana Cocoa Board to make payment plan available to the contractors, consultants and suppliers for them to schedule project execution to reduce agitation and forestall negative perceptions of the principle of first come first paid method adopted.

    He also called for lists to be made available to the GhCCI for transparency and good practices in payment management and monitoring.

    The Chairman of GhCCI, Mr Emmanuel Tetteh Martey urged government through the Ministry of Roads and Highways to as a matter of urgency appoint a representative of the chamber to serve on the classification and Re-classification Committee.

    He charged the government through the Minister of Finance to disclose the inflows from the E-levy and proportion that had gone into infrastructure Development since its inception and as a matter of urgency pass the new Ghana Building

    Regulation which had been prepared by the Ministry of Works and Housing into law, to ensure standards was followed in the construction industry.

    “We also entreat government to take a serious and exceptional view of the current ‘galamsey’ menace in Ghana which is having a toll on the infrastructural projects of the country and we will fully support government in it’s desire to bring it to an end using legitimate processes and systems,” Mr Tetteh Martey added.

  • Credibility of our university certificate must be maintained – Dr Bawumia

    Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has indicated that it came as a shock to him when the Auditor-General’s report revealed that some universities in Ghana are running unaccredited programmes.

    He said the prestige of the country’s university system, the credibility and recognition of the certificates issued rest substantially on the time honoured and generally acknowledged quality assurance system.

    The Vice President said it is therefore critical for the protection of the country’s higher education system.

    Credibility of our university certificate must be maintained - Dr Bawumia

    He said this at the Fifth Investiture ceremony of the New Vice Chancellor of the University for Development Studies, Professor Seidu Alhassan in Tamale, the Northern Regional capital.

    Dr. Bawumia said the country must have a zero tolerance for such lapses.

    “As a country, we must have zero tolerance for such development. That is why I applauded the efforts of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) and the Ministry of Education (MoE) to ensure that there is strict adherence to the regulatory requirements of the education regulatory body’s Act 2020, Act 1023,” he said.

    He charged all Vice Chancellor’s in Ghana to ensure they get all their courses accredited.

    Credibility of our university certificate must be maintained - Dr Bawumia

    “So may I suggest to you Mr. Vice Chancellor that one of your immediate tasks should be to take inventory of your programs and make all ongoing and new ones accredited before you enroll students into them,” Dr. Bawumia said.

    The Vice President also charged the leadership of the University for Development Studies (UDS) to realign their programs and research activities with the government priority agenda for creating a critical mass of impactful human capital.

    He said as the Vice Chancellor assumes office, he expects the University to stay the cause it has carved a niche in and reinvent itself as a university that takes pride in its relevance.

    Credibility of our university certificate must be maintained - Dr Bawumia

    He said the dual task for tertiary institutions is to achieve a gross tertiary enrollment ratio of forty percent overall and the proportion enrollment of science and technology programs relative to humanity ratio of 60:40 to 40 by the end of the year 2030.

    “It is the expectation of government that the UDS will prioritise the role of programs in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines while re-accessing the relevance of others,” he noted.

    Dr. Bawumia said the Ministry of Education is working to create a pipeline of well prepared students to feed into the tertiary system.

    Credibility of our university certificate must be maintained - Dr Bawumia

    “The Free Senior High School policy, curriculum reforms, rolling out of specialised STEM senior High Schools and Technical Colleges are only but a few of these pipeline interventions,” he added.

    He gave the assurance that government would continue to invest in the provision of appropriate infrastructure and the core personnel required for effective and efficient operations of the universities and other tertiary institutions.

    “I am informed that the GETFUND has put together a plan to complete all ongoing infrastructure projects in tertiary institutions within 18 to 24 months,” he said.

    He said investment in infrastructure through the educational system has been one of the very tangible interventions of the Nana Addo government and they intend to continue in spite of the current economic challenges.

    Credibility of our university certificate must be maintained - Dr Bawumia

    The Vice Chancellor for UDS, Professor Seidu Alhassan said his aim is to provide effective leadership and a cordial environment that would further develop the University into a practical-oriented institution that is internationally recognised for academic excellence.

    He said an excellent academic foundation has been laid already, hence the need to build on it.

    Prof Seidu said the University’s academic planning must tap into the frontiers of knowledge that cut across, academic excellence and community service, especially in areas they have a comparative advantage.

    He added that the overall goal is to strengthen existing programs and introduce innovative ones in line with current realities.

    He said academic infrastructure will be enhanced, adding that the UDS strategic research plan will be actualised to guide research excellence.

    Credibility of our university certificate must be maintained - Dr Bawumia

    In a speech read on behalf of the Overlord of Dagbon Yana Abukari by the Zangbalun Lana Naa, Dr. Jacob Mahama, said the UDS was created to address certain needs of the area and urged the new VC to be guided by the objective for which it was created.

    He urged the University’s authorities to blend its academic work with the community in order to provide a constructive interaction between the two for the total development of Northern Ghana and Ghana as a whole.

    The Yana said the role of the UDS in the development of the area is enormous, therefore he is ready to offer all the support they need to bring development to the area.

    He thanked the VC and government for their assurance to transform the Yendi Campus of the UDS.

  • GETFund clarifies number of completed E-block projects

    The Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) has clarified the number of E-blocks (Community Day high school projects) it has completed as of December 2016.

    It follows what the Fund says is ‘political media debate’ on the projects particularly being fueled by the National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi.

    GETFund in responding to the issue said that “by the end of the year 2016, 22 of the E-Blocks being funded by GETFund were completed”.

    It further explained that, Government awarded 101 contracts on E-Blocks between 2014 and 2016 on the accounts of GETFund aside from 23 other projects from the World Bank, out of which seven were completed in the same period.

    By the end of 2020, 30 more E-blocks were completed 14 being GETFund funded with that of the remaining 16 being completed by the World Bank.

    GETFund also reiterated the termination of 27 E-blocks in 2018.

    “Outstanding 38 E-blocks are at various stages of completion”, a statement from GETFund further added.

    Source: Citinews

  • Reinstate 17.5% GETFUND/NHIL to former status – Tax analyst

    As the finance minister prepares to deliver the mid-year budget and supplementary estimates to Parliament on Thursday, a tax analyst Francis Timore Boi – has advised the government to reinstate the 17.5% GETFUND and National Health Insurance Levy (NHIL) of VAT to their former status.

    In the 2018 mid-year budget, Ken Ofori-Atta announced that the NHIL and GETFUND components from VAT have been separated and are now straight levies. This move, Mr. Boi contends, has brought undue hardship to businesses due to the cascading effect from the levies along the production chain.

    According to him, consumption taxes in the nature of levies are not the best for businesses in a developing economy like Ghana. “Businesses are not consumers but rather producers. They should not be compelled to pay consumption taxes. The principle of consumption tax is that businesses are used as agents to collect the taxes. The general view is that they should be allowed input VAT for all VAT paid on their purchases,” he stressed.

    He is of the view that it would be prudent for government to rather impose input tax on businesses to shift the burden along the chain to the final consumer. “The effect-split is that while the total of VAT plus levies will remain at 17.5%, suppliers will only be able to deduct the 12.5% VAT component on purchases. The 5% (NHIL plus GETFUND) levy paid on purchases will be treated as part of business expense, which increases production cost.

    “If you split the taxes and make only 12.5% input VAT deductible and now with the COVID-19 levy making it 6% non-deductible input VAT which includes the 1% COVID-19 levy businesses will have to absorb the 6% into their cost. Again, the VAT is calculated on the levy-inclusive price which increases prices the more,” he added.

    Lamenting about the negative impact of the move on businesses, Mr. Boi pointed out that the adverse effect of the situation is that all the 5% GETFUND/NHIL levy is imposed on only producers, leaving distributors exempted.

    He is worried that the situation creates concerns when looking at the concept of moving from a “taxation to production” policy. “What are you doing to the production system? You are suffocating the production system. I think it is time to reinstate the levy back to its original status to give some space for businesses in the production sector to grow,” he noted.

    Improving informal sector revenue

    Touching on new ways to improve revenue collection, particularly in the informal sector, Mr. Boi maintained that the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) must be firm in enforcing the laws which address taxation in the informal sector.

    “The tax net, in my view, drills down to enforcement. It only requires implementation. There is a portion of the Income Tax Law that was passed in 2015 on Modified Taxation which was supposed to deal with taxation of the informal sector.

    “That part of the law has not been implemented yet, and I think it is overdue. If we think the law is not well-drafted to address the informal sector, we should come up with a new strategy to deal with the sector. The GRA has been very lenient on the informal sector players,” he said.

    Mr. Boi observed that the tax stamp used for the informal sector is not collecting enough to commensurate with the amount of money in circulation in that area.

    “Look at the tax stamp that was introduced to collect taxes from Commercial Vehicles and other operators. The truth is that a lot of commercial activities take place in the informal sector, yet they pay too little. Taxi drivers pay GH¢12 per quarter. How much do they make per month? How do we tax uber drivers? Think of artisans and chop bar operators. The tax burden is completely unbalanced, and those who earn more pay less. I expect this budget statement to revise the rates on tax stamps,” he opined.

    The situation, he said, has compelled government to adopt too many indirect taxes which in itself is a burden and retrogressive.

    Reducing indirect taxes

    Mr. Boi stated that the current tax structure whereby about 60% of taxes come from indirect taxes because they are easy to administer is not the way to go. According to him, the negative effect of indirect taxes is that the poor suffer all the more.

    He explained that an increase in a consumption tax essentially reduces real income, and results in lower household consumption where poorer households spend a larger proportion of their income. “In 2019 the ratio of Indirect Direct tax was 58% 42%; in 2018 it was 63% 37%. The trend continues; and just this May 2021 we had COVID-19, Sanitation and ESLA levies. This tells you that our tax policies are balanced toward indirect taxes.”

    Source: thebftonline.com

  • Bawumia presents 100 buses to Senior High Schools

    Vice president, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia on Thursday, July 30, 2020, handed over 100 Hyundai buses to some selected Senior High Schools in the country, specifically, the North East, North West, Savannah, Upper East, Upper West, Oti, Bono, Bono East and Ahafo regions.

    The handing over of vehicles to the education sector, the vice president said was in fulfillment of President Akufo-Addo’s commitment to ensure that the education sector is adequately resourced to deliver improved learning outcomes in the country.

    Dr Bawumia assured Ghanaians that “This government will continue to invest in the education of its citizens because it is the right thing to do. We will continue to invest in the frontline managers of our educational institutions because they are central to any education reform we seek to pursue, and we must equip them with the necessary tools to enhance their work to enable them to deliver their mandate in a more efficient manner”.

    He further indicated that these 100 Hyundai buses procured were funded by the GETFUND.

    In March 2020, a total of 365 Isuzu double cabin pickups were given to the metropolitan, municipal and district education offices nationwide.

    The Vice President also handed 493 motorbikes to various district offices to aid the work of circuit supervisors as well as further enhance their supervisory roles in the education sector

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • I have written to GETFund – Deputy Agric Minister replies Auditor-General

    Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Kennedy Osei Nyarko has responded to the letter of the Auditor-General, Daniel Domelevo directing him to send all his concerns to GETFund.

    Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen, Kennedy Osei Nyarko said they have equally written to GETFund for information on his inclusion in the list of undeserving scholarship beneficiaries.

    According to him, the response from the Auditor-General and GETFund will inform their decision to head to court for the issue to be settled.

    He said the court will provide the platform for all to provide evidence to their statements.

    Kennedy Osei Nyarko also questions the auditor’s inability to probe the information provided to them by GETFund to confirm whether or not the documents given them are correct.

    Auditor-General response

    The Auditor-General, Daniel Domelevo, has asked the Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Kennedy Osei Nyarko to head to GETFund with any concerns he has regarding the audit report.

    According to the Auditor-General, his outfit is not responsible for the list of beneficiaries of the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) captured in its performance audit report.

    Mr. Domelevo instead urged Mr. Nyarko to take up any grievances he has with GETFund.

    The Akim Swedru legislator on Monday threatened to sue the Auditor-General if his name was not retracted from the list of beneficiaries of the GETFund scholarship.

    He claimed he never benefitted from a GETFund scholarship to study abroad.

    But Mr. Domelevo noted in a letter to the legislator that “every information or name that is contained in the performance audit report on GETFund came from GETFund, the audited entity.”

     

    Source: primenewsghana.com

  • I am ashamed MPs went for GETFund scholarship Inusah Fuseini

    National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale Central constituency, Alhaji Inusah Fuseini says Members of Parliament (MPs) have no justification benefitting from GETfund scholarships.

    He says he has never benefitted from any GETFund scholarship as such he is ashamed of what his colleagues in parliament had done.

    “I am ashamed MPs went for GETFund scholarships . . . I even didn’t know that some MPs have applied for a scholarship, it never crossed my mind all these 14 years I’ve been in parliament to use my position as MP to apply for a scholarship,” he said in an interview with Maame Biamah Kwafo on Neat FM.

    He said since he became an MP he has furthered his education through his salary.

    “If you say an MP is needy what about that person in my constituency or in Ghana who has no water to drink . . . you can even describe yourself as brilliant but needy,” he said.

    According to him, in no case can MPs be described as ‘brilliant but needy students’.

    Listen to him in the interview below . . .

    Background

    A performance audit report has listed a number of high-ranking government officials including the Minister of State in Charge of Procurement, Sarah Adwoa Safo who applied and obtained $12,800 in allowances with $17,004 in tuition fees to study at the Harvard Kennedy School.

    Another person captured in the list is the Executive Secretary of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA), Prince Hamidu Armah also receiving £38,400 for living expense in addition to £33,000 for tuition fees, While Education Minister Mathew Opoku Prempeh, also received $12,800 for living expenses and $11,200 as tuition fees to study at Harvard University.

    The Auditor-General intends to surcharge persons involved in scholarship awards and also disallow expenditure items of the GETFund Secretariat, in accordance with Article 187(7) (b) of its mandate.

    This follows recommendations by the Auditor-General after faulting the GETFund for not being fair in the award of scholarships to those in need.

  • GETfund saga: Deputy Agric Mininster gives Auditor-General 24 hours to apologise

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for Akim Swedru and Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Kennedy Nyarko Osei has given the Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo a 24-hour ultimatum to retract and apologise to him for including his name in the list GETfund beneficiaries.

    In a letter addressed to the Auditor-General by lawyers of the legislator Thursday, the legislator said Mr Domelevo should have known there was a problem with his inclusion because no money was attached to it.

    The letter accused the Auditor-General of being unprofessional and malicious in his work.

    It has emerged that some MPs and government officials were given scholarships from the GETfund scholarship secretariat to embark on courses abroad.

    The mandate of the GETFund is to grant scholarships to brilliant but needy Ghanaians.

    The list including some members of parliament and deputy ministers are contained in the audited report of the auditor general on the Getfund scholarship secretariat.

    The Dome MP and procurement minister Adwoa Safo applied and obtained $12,800 in allowances with $17,004 in tuition fees to study at the Harvard Kennedy school.

    The Executive Secretary of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA), Prince Hamidu Armah also received £38,400 for living expense in addition to £33,000 for tuition fees, While Education minister Mathew Opoku Prempeh, who listed at number 38, is receiving $12,800 for living expenses and $11,200 as tuition fees at security course at Harvard University.

    The Education Minister and the Executive Secretary of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment have explained they secured the scholarship before coming into public office.

     

    Source: starrfm.com.gh

  • Ignore claims Im a beneficiary of GETFund scholarship John Jinapor

    Member of Parliament for Yapei Kusawgu Constituency, John Jinapor has refuted claims alleging that he benefited from GETFund scholarship to study Master in Oil and Gas Accounting at the Robert Gordon University in Scotland.

    According to him, he never attended the Robert Gordon University.

    In a Facebook post he said “Ignore the false and spurious claims by the NPP that I’m a beneficiary of GETFund scholarship. I am not and I have never attended the said Robert Gordon University.”

    John Jinapor comment comes on the back of a document purported to be a list of NDC beneficiaries of the GETFund scholarship in circulation on social media.

    Meanwhile, the Deputy Minister for Agriculture, Kennedy Osei Nyarko has threatened to take legal action against the Auditor-General if he does not clear his name from the list of beneficiaries of the GETFund scholarship.

    The deputy minister who is also the MP for Akim Swedru said: “If I can personally sponsor for the education of peoples wards both local and abroad to further their education from my own personal resources how much more will it be difficult to sponsor my own education.”

    According to him, “this is a big gaffe coming from the Auditor General”.

    The audit report stated that MP received a scholarship to attend the SOAS University of London, UK despite the fact that the cost was not stated.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

     

  • GETFund audit report not to ruin reputations – Audit Service

    The Audit Service says their report on the performance of the administration of scholarships by GETFund is not to tarnish the image of anyone.

    The service said the report is to help restructure the system of administration of the fund for it to meet its core mandate.

    The Audit Service also stated that they may not disallow and surcharge individuals who can prove they have not benefited from the GETFund scholarships.

    According to the Audit Service processes leading to disallowing and surcharging will allow the said individuals to provide and prove whether or not they have actually benefited from the GETFund scholarship.

    Speaking on Citi FM after the Audit Service published a performance audit report on the administration of scholarships by GETFund from 2012 to 2018, Assistant Public Relations Officer of the service, Mr Bernard Conduah said the process will allow individuals who have complained of not benefiting from the scholarship but have been listed in the report published to provide proof to that effect.

    He also stated that the report is a wakeup call for MPs and public officials whose names have been cited in the report but did not benefit from it. According to Mr Conduah, this should prompt them that some people are using their names for illegal activities.

    Addressing the issues of the report seeking to tarnish the names of some public officials said to have benefited from the scholarship, he said the idea of the report is not to tarnish anybody’s image but rather identify the loopholes in the administration of the fund and recommend ways of curbing it.

    “What’s in the report is not meant to tarnish anyone’s image.”

     

    Concerns

    Deputy Minister for Agriculture, Kennedy Osei Nyarko has threatened to take legal action against the Auditor-General if he does not clear his name from the list of beneficiaries of the GETFund scholarship.

    The deputy minister who is also MP said: “If I can personally sponsor for the education of peoples wards both local and Abroad to further their education from my own personal resources how much more will it be difficult to sponsor my own education.”

    According to him, “this is a big gaffe coming from the Auditor General”.

     

    Source: primenewsghana.com

  • Ablakwa, Ofosu Kwakye, Jinapor and Mogtari Bawa allegedly took scholarships from GNPC Foundation

    A picture sighted by Ghanatribune.com shows that several NDC MPs and ministers accessed scholarships from the GNPC Foundation during the period of 2012 to 2016.

    The picture; a snapshot of the list of beneficiaries, lists names like John Abdulai Jinapor, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Felix Ofosu Kwakye, Joyce Mogtari Bawa who all took scholarships from the foundation to fund their study abroad.

    This leak follows the release of the GETFund audit report from the period of 2012 to 2017 which showed some high ranking government officials in the current administration accessed the scholarship scheme primarily meant for the needy but brilliant.

    Hon. Adwoa Sarfo, Dr. Prince Hamid Armah and Education Minister Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh were all captured as beneficiaries of the GETFund scholarship.

    This particular leak sighted covers only the 2012-2013 period and more could be revealed in the rest of the list.

    See the picture below

    Source: ghanatribune.com

  • Its a big gaffe, I never had any GETFund Scholarship Kennedy Nyarko cries out

    Member of Parliament (MP) for Akim Swedru and Deputy Minister of Agriculture Kennedy Osei Nyarko has rejected the performance audit report of the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) scholarship that has cited him as having been a beneficiary of scholarship.

    Hon. Nyarko is said to have received the scholarship to study at the SOAS University of London for a Certificate in Environmental.

    But Mr Nyarko has hit back denying that he was ever granted such a scholarship.

    “If I can personally sponsor for the education of peoples wards both local and abroad to further their education from my own personal resources how much more will it be difficult to sponsor my own education.

    This is a big gaffe coming from the Auditor General,” he lashed out.

    The performance audit report has listed a number of high-ranking government officials including the Minister of State in Charge of Procurement Sarah Adwoa Safo who applied and obtained $12,800 in allowances with $17,004 in tuition fees to study at the Harvard Kennedy School.

    Another person captured in the list is the Executive Secretary of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA), Prince Hamidu Armah also received £38,400 for living expense in addition to £33,000 for tuition fees, While Education minister Mathew Opoku Prempeh, who listed at number 38, is receiving $12,800 for living expenses and $11,200 as tuition fees at security course at Harvard University.

    Source: mynewsgh.com

  • GETFund Fraud: Kweku Baako speaks on NAPOs involvement

    Journalist Abdul Malik Kweku Baako Jnr, has revealed that Minister of Education and Member of Parliament (MP) for Manhyia South Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh was a beneficiary of Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETfund) scholarship in 2014 when he was MP and had already served about six years as such.

    Clarifying the issue on Facebook due to perceptions that he was a Minister while on the scholarship, Mr Baako explained that Dr Opoku Prempeh was granted the scholarship in 2014 for a 3-week program in Harvard University in the US and not when he became Minister.

    The Minister himself in denying that he had been a beneficiary of the scholarship scheme was careful to say that he has never been a beneficiary “since assuming” office as Minister.

    According to the audit report on the grant of GETfund Scholarships, Mr Opoku Prempeh spent some US $24, 000 at Harvard University training in a programme dubbed “Senior Executive in National and International Security”.

    Mr Opoku Prempeh became MP in 2008 and was appointed Minister of Education in 2017. He reportedly owns a security firm and there is a widely held notion that the training was meant to help him better run the firm since it was on security matters.

    Source: mynewsgh.com

  • GETFund scholarship: Clear my name or I’ll sue you – MP tells Auditor-General

    The Deputy Minister for Agriculture, Kennedy Osei Nyarko has threatened to take legal action against the Auditor-General if he does not clear his name from the list of beneficiaries of the GetFund scholarship.

    The deputy minister who is also the MP for said: “If I can personally sponsor for the education of peoples wards both local and Abroad to further their education from my own personal resources how much more will it be difficult to sponsor my own education.”

    According to him, “this is a big gaffe coming from the Auditor General”.

    The audit report stated that MP received a scholarship to attend the SOAS University of London, UK despite the fact that the cost was not stated.

    Speaking in an interview with Kwabena Agyapong on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5fm, he said he has never benefitted from GetFund scholarship either as MP or a deputy minister.

    It has emerged that some ministers of state have been given scholarships from the GETfund scholarship secretariat to embark on courses abroad.

    The mandate of the GETFund is to grant scholarships to brilliant but needy Ghanaians.

    But reacting to the report, the MP explained that GetFund does not only award scholarships to needy but brilliant students.

    He said the state body is also mandated to award scholarships to persons who are working in the interest of the state.

    The list including some members of parliament and deputy ministers are contained in the audited report of the auditor-general on the Getfund scholarship secretariat.

    The Dome MP and procurement minister, Adwoa Safo applied and obtained $12,800 in allowances with $17,004 in tuition fees to study at the Harvard Kennedy school.

    The Executive Secretary of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA), Prince Hamidu Armah also received £38,400 for living expense in addition to £33,000 for tuition fees, While Education minister Mathew Opoku Prempeh, who listed at number 38, is receiving $12,800 for living expenses and $11,200 as tuition fees at security course at Harvard University.

    Meanwhile, GetFund has through a statement the Minister for Education Mathew Opoku Prempeh, the Procurement Minister, Sarah Adwoa Safo and the Executive Secretary of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA), Prince Hamidu Armah were not awarded scholarships under the current administration.

    “the aforementioned persons have not been awarded scholarships by the Fund under the current administration,” adding that its mandate was not limited to serving needy but brilliant students, in line with the GETFund Act 2000.

    “The fund may, per its mandate, also provide support for other educational activities and programmes to serve strategic national interests.”

    Source: rainbowradioonline.com

  • Auditor-General to surcharge undeserving GETFund scholarship beneficiaries

    The Auditor-General has hinted of plans to disallow and surcharge underserving GETfund scholarship beneficiaries.

    A performance audit report of the Auditor-General on the administration of scholarships by GETFund from 2012 to 2018 revealed that some politicians, lecturers and media personalities benefitted from the scheme, a policy meant for needy but brilliant students.

    The Education Minister, Mathew Opoku Prempeh is listed as studying National and International Security at Harvard University, receiving $12,800 for living expenses and $11,200 as tuition fees.

    Procurement Minister Sarah Adwoa Safo is also listed studying at the Harvard Kennedy School enjoying $12,800 in allowances with $17,004 in tuition fees.

    Dr. Armah is studying Philosophy in Education at the University of Aberdeen, which comes with a benefit of £38,400 for living expenses in addition to £33,000 for tuition fees.

    In the report, Auditor-General said they may disallow and surcharged the individuals involved.

    “The Auditor-General in accordance with article 187(7)(b) will serve the GETFund with a notice of the intention to disallow items of expenditure (the granting of scholarships) contrary to Section (2)(b) of of the GETFund Act, 2000 (Act 581) and may proceed to surcharge.”

     

    Source: primenewsghana.com

  • NUGS calls for investigations into scholarships awarded by GETFund

    The National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) has called for investigations into scholarships awarded by GETFund between 2012 and 2018 following an audit report from the office of the Auditor-General.

    It has emerged from the office of the Auditor-General that three notable government appointees have been captured as scholarship beneficiaries.

    They include Minister for Education Mathew Opoku Prempeh, Procurement Minister, Sarah Adwoa Safo and the Executive Secretary of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA), Prince Hamidu Armah.

    According to the Auditor General’s report, the Procurement Minister Adwoa Safo applied and obtained $12,800 in allowances with $17,004 in tuition fees to study at the Harvard Kennedy school.

    The Minister of Education Mathew Opoku Prempeh received $12,800 for living expenses and $11,200 as tuition fees for a security course at Harvard University.

    The Executive Secretary of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA), Prince Armah also received £38,400 for living expenses in addition to £33,000 for tuition fees.

    Reacting to the latest report from the Auditor General’s office on the GETfund and award of scholarships on Starr FM today, the President of NUGS, Isaac J Hyde said the Union is disappointed

    ”The matter is worrying. As a matter of fact each and every year we have a number of students who are unable to continue their education. People win scholarships and you go to GETfund and they are unable to fund it. And these are people in our security who can pay their school fees and other advancements in education as been beneficiaries of the fund. We are disappointed and hoping further investigations will be conducted into the issue to see the way forward.”

    He added that: ”The purpose of GETfund of which the NUGS champion its ideology in 2000 was to support needy students not people who are parliamentarians and who are eligible to pay their own fees so that is where the problem lies”.

    The President of NUGS also called for transparency into the way and manner scholarship funds are disbursed by the GETfund in the country.

    On his part, anti-graft campaigner Vitus Azeem has stated that public officials who used their positions to obtain GETfund scholarships in the past should be made to pay back the sponsorship fees to the state.

    According to him, even though they could not be blamed for securing the scholarships, they should, out of good conscience, payback since they are not needy students as stipulated by the Act of the scholarship scheme.

    Meanwhile, the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) in a statement indicated that Mathew Opoku Prempeh, Sarah Adwoa Safo and Prince Hamidu Armah were not awarded scholarships under the current administration.

    Source: primenewsghana.com

  • GETFund Fraud: Kweku Baako speaks on NAPOs involvement

    Journalist Abdul Malik Kweku Baako Jnr, has revealed that Minister of Education and Member of Parliament (MP) for Manhyia South Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh was a beneficiary of Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETfund) scholarship in 2014 when he was MP and had already served about six years as such.

    Clarifying the issue on Facebook due to perceptions that he was a Minister while on the scholarship, Mr Baako explained that Dr Opoku Prempeh was granted the scholarship in 2014 for a 3-week program in Harvard University in the US and not when he became Minister.

    The Minister himself in denying that he had been a beneficiary of the scholarship scheme was careful to say that he has never been a beneficiary “since assuming” office as Minister.

    According to the audit report on the grant of GETfund Scholarships, Mr Opoku Prempeh spent some US $24, 000 at Harvard University training in a programme dubbed “Senior Executive in National and International Security”.

    Mr Opoku Prempeh became MP in 2008 and was appointed Minister of Education in 2017. He reportedly owns a security firm and there is a widely held notion that the training was meant to help him better run the firm since it was on security matters.

     

    Source: mynewsgh.com