EAI Will Support Student Loan System for Colleges of Education if Brought to Our Attention, Calls for Fair and Timely Disbursement – William Boadi
The Educate Africa Institute (EAI) has declared its readiness to support the proposal to replace monthly allowances for students in Colleges of Education with a student loan system if the matter is brought to its attention. The institute also strongly advocates for the fair and timely disbursement of loans to ensure students receive the necessary financial support without delays.
EAI acknowledges the justification behind the proposal by the Minister of Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, emphasizing that since Colleges of Education have attained full tertiary status, their students should access financial assistance through the Students Loan Trust Fund (SLTF), just like their peers in 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).
According to Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, the current system, where College of Education students receive direct allowances while university students rely on loans, creates an imbalance in the education sector. He argues that adopting a unified student loan system will promote fairness, enable better financial planning, and allow the government to redirect funds to other critical areas in education.
EAI aligns with this perspective, stating that transitioning to a student loan system will enhance financial sustainability and ensure equal opportunities for all tertiary students. However, the institute insists that the Students Loan Trust Fund must disburse loans promptly and fairly, free from favoritism, nepotism, or political influence. Access to financial support, EAI asserts, must be based on merit and genuine need.
Furthermore, EAI recommends that funds previously allocated for allowances be redirected towards improving educational infrastructure, enhancing teacher training programs, and strengthening the overall quality of tertiary education in Ghana.
As the discussion on this policy change unfolds, EAI calls on student unions, education policymakers, and government stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue to ensure a smooth transition that benefits students and strengthens Ghana’s education system.
Signed
William Boadi
Executive Director of EAI, Educationist, Political Analyst, and Social Worker.
Contact: 0541935106
Anthony Cobbinah
Director of Quality Assurance and Advocacy, EAI.
Contact: 0243679469
EAI: Education and Social Justice.