Accra: Beneficiaries of the Erasmus Mundus scholarship have been advised to take their studies seriously and become agents of change in Ghana. They have also been encouraged to apply the knowledge acquired to make meaningful contributions towards national development.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, Deputy Minister of Education, gave the advice at a pre-departure orientation held in Accra for 30 Ghanaian students who have been awarded the European Union-funded Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree scholarship. The scholarship offers recipients the opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies in some of Europe’s top academic institutions under the Erasmus+ programme. It aims to foster academic excellence, cross-cultural exchange, and the development of leadership skills.
Dr. Apaak commended the European Union (EU) for its continuous support to Ghana’s education sector and called on the students to make the most of the opportunity. ‘The country’s agenda on education from basic to tertiary levels is unparalleled, ensuring positive educational outcomes,’ he said. He noted that the government had recently concluded a National Education Forum to gather feedback from stakeholders towards enhancing teaching and learning outcomes.
The Deputy Minister also highlighted several education initiatives, including the no-fee policy for first-year tertiary students and persons with disabilities, many of whom have since been reimbursed. He said that the government was committed to establishing a public university in every region to ensure equal access to higher education, regardless of background, ethnicity, or status. Dr. Apaak urged the students to adapt to new environments, embrace every challenge, and strive for excellence throughout their academic journey.
Mr. Irchad Razaaly, EU Ambassador to Ghana, lauded the selection process, noting that the students were chosen for their academic excellence from a pool of thousands of applicants. ‘The selection process speaks volumes about your talent, dedication, hard work, and potential,’ he said. He disclosed that since 2014, over 2,780 Ghanaian students and higher education staff had benefited from credit mobility opportunities under the Erasmus+ programme. ‘The programme helps you to build human capital by equipping students with cutting-edge knowledge and leadership skills. As graduates, you will often return to your home country as change makers, as innovators, and as leaders who will contribute directly to the future and the prosperity of this country,’ Mr. Razaaly added.
Mr. George Opare Addo, Minister of Youth and Empowerment, said the programme would help nurture a new generation capable of sustaining a dynamic and inclusive society. He encouraged the students to ‘bring to bear your intellectual brains and engage deeply by participating in all activities and making a meaningful impact.’ The scholarship recipients expressed appreciation for the opportunity, pledging to apply knowledge acquired to support development efforts in Ghana.