The government of Ghana has officially initiated a diplomatic mission system to oversee the welfare and needs of Ghanaians studying in various parts of the world.
The new system, currently being regulated by special departments in 11 countries, is supervised by Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. He noted that it is part of a broader set of diplomatic missions being implemented by the ministry. “Student Desks have immediately been created in 11 countries where data confirms a high number of Ghanaian students currently studying in those countries. Diplomatic missions where these Student Desks have been created are: Abidjan, Beijing, Belgrade, Cotonou, Havana, Lome, London, Moscow, Rabat, Rome and Ottawa,” he shared.
In a Facebook post, Ablakwa outlined the initiative, which is currently in its pilot stage. He emphasized that it will not impose any financial burden on the Ghanaian taxpayer or require additional recruitment, as it will operate by reassigning existing consular staff.
He also assured Ghanaians that embassy officials responsible for this duty will be held accountable, submitting monthly reports to the Consular and Humanitarian Affairs Bureau for onward transmission to the Foreign Minister.
The Foreign Minister further highlighted the Mahama-led administration’s commitment to ensuring that Ghanaian students abroad, particularly those on government scholarships, receive proper care and the necessary support to settle in and study effectively. “The Mahama administration is determined to end the era where Ghanaian students studying abroad, particularly those on government scholarships, are left stranded, neglected and frustrated when they need urgent assistance in areas such as fees facilitation, immigration support, medical emergencies, verification of academic records, housing and accommodation support, evacuations and legal aid. More institutional reforms to follow. Together, we shall reset Ghana,” he shared.
