Presidency orders NIB probe over alleged sale of overseas scholarships

The Presidency has instructed the National Investigation Bureau (NIB) to launch an immediate investigation into allegations that Ghana’s overseas scholarship programme may have been abused, following claims that money was paid to secure a scholarship to study abroad.

The directive, issued on Tuesday and signed by the Secretary to the President, Dr Callistus Mahama, described the matter as one of “grave public concern” requiring urgent attention.

The investigation was triggered by comments made during a radio programme on Sompa 106.5 FM, where a panellist, Kofi Ofosu Nkansah — a former Chief Executive Officer of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme — alleged that an individual obtained a scholarship through payment.

According to the Presidency, the discussion, which was conducted in the Twi language, has since circulated widely, prompting serious public debate about fairness, transparency, and integrity in the administration of overseas scholarships.

In the directive, the Presidency noted that the President’s attention had been drawn to the broadcast, particularly the claim that “an individual paid to secure a scholarship to pursue studies abroad.”

After reviewing the content of the radio discussion, the President determined that the allegation merited immediate scrutiny, stressing that such claims strike at the core of government’s commitment to transparency, integrity, and equal access to educational opportunities.

The Presidency emphasized that the issue extends beyond a single allegation, as it threatens public confidence in the processes used to award state-sponsored educational opportunities.

As a result, the President has directed the NIB to thoroughly investigate the claim, establish whether it has any factual basis, and ascertain the truth or otherwise of the allegations. The Bureau has also been tasked to identify any individuals who may be implicated in the alleged misconduct.

The directive further instructed the NIB to submit its findings to the President for consideration and any necessary action that may follow.

The statement concluded with formal assurances issued on behalf of the President of the Republic, highlighting the seriousness with which the matter is being treated.

The outcome of the NIB’s investigation is expected to determine whether further steps will be taken.