GSA justifies UK PhD scholarship validation and oath-taking exercise

The Ghana Scholarships Authority (GSA) recently defended the ongoing Oath of Affirmation and Scholarship Validation Exercise for Ghanaian PhD scholarship recipients in the UK, stating that the exercise is lawful and does not impose new obligations on students. This exercise, mandated by the Ghana Scholarships Authority Act 2025 (Act 1149) and the Oaths Act 1972 (NRCD 6), aims to verify scholarship awards, update beneficiary records, and reaffirm commitments under existing scholarship bonds.

The GSA stressed that the oath does not introduce any new conditions for beneficiaries, as every scholarship recipient previously accepted a bond requiring return to Ghana within two months of completing their study programme. The Authority clarified that the exercise does not apply new rules retrospectively, as the terms of existing scholarship bonds remain unchanged.

They also explained that "No Objection" letters issued to some beneficiaries seeking professional experience under the UK Graduate Route do not cancel, waive, or alter the scholarship bond. The GSA acknowledged concerns over delays in tuition fee and stipend payments, stating that these issues are separate from the validation exercise and that participating in the latter will not affect beneficiaries' legitimate entitlements.

The Authority emphasized that the validation exercise is intended to strengthen accountability, protect scholarship programme integrity, maintain accurate records, and promote fairness and transparency. They urged all affected beneficiaries to participate in the Oath of Affirmation and Scholarship Validation Exercise without delay, emphasizing that the government's scholarship programme is a significant investment in Ghana's human capital and that beneficiaries must fulfill their obligations.