EAI Supports Student Loan System for Colleges of Education as Proposed by Minister of Education, Calls for Fair and Timely Disbursement – William Boadi
The Educate Africa Institute (EAI) has expressed its full support for the Minister of Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, in his proposal to replace monthly allowances for students in Colleges of Education with a student loan system. According to EAI, now that Colleges of Education have attained full tertiary status, it is only fair for their students to access financial support through the Students Loan Trust Fund (SLTF), just like their counterparts in traditional universities such as the University of Ghana (Legon), Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), University of Education, Winneba (UEW), and the University of Cape Coast (UCC).
Hon. Haruna Iddrisu has emphasized that the current system, where College of Education students receive direct allowances while university students depend on loans, is unsustainable and inequitable. He argues that a unified student loan system will ensure fairness, allow for better financial planning, and create room for the government to invest in other critical sectors of education.
EAI shares this view, stating that the continued payment of allowances to College of Education students creates an unnecessary imbalance in the education sector. The institute believes that shifting to a loan-based system will promote financial sustainability and ensure equal treatment for all tertiary students.
However, EAI strongly urges the Students Loan Trust Fund to expedite the disbursement of loans to eligible applicants, ensuring that students receive timely financial support without favoritism, nepotism, or political bias. The organization insists that access to education financing must be based on merit and need rather than political affiliations.
Additionally, EAI recommends that the government redirect funds previously allocated for allowances toward improving educational infrastructure, enhancing teacher training programs, and strengthening the overall quality of tertiary education in Ghana.
As the conversation on this policy change continues, EAI calls on student unions, education policymakers, and government agencies to engage in meaningful dialogue to ensure a smooth transition that benefits all students and strengthens Ghana’s education system.
Signed
William Boadi
Executive Director of EAI, Educationist, Political analyst, and Social Worker.
0541935106
Anthony Cobbinah
Director of Quality Assurance and Advocacy EAI.
0243679469
EAI: EDUCATION AND SOCIAL JUSTICE.