Parliament has suspended the consideration of the Ghana Scholarship Authority Bill 2025 at the instance of the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu to allow for further stakeholder engagement.
The bill was being considered for passage under a certificate of urgency by the legislature, but the Citizens’ Coalition, a network of civil society organisations and some individuals in Ghana’s educational sector have kicked against the move.
The coalition in a statement called on parliament to halt the consideration of the bill under a certificate of urgency to allow for a broader input.
the stakeholders argue that that rushing the bill through under a certificate of urgency could undermine transparency and public trust.
The Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu announced the suspension during the clause-by-clause consideration of the bill on Thursday July 17.
He told Parliament that, the Presidency had advised a pause on the legislative process to allow for more consultations.
“The Office of the President related to me some concerns that have been communicated, and therefore, Mr. Speaker, I sought the chairman’s indulgence if we can stay for further consideration as I do further consultation as I indicated,” the Minister said.
Mr Iddrisu disclosed that engagements with relevant stakeholders were already underway.
“On Tuesday, July 15, we engaged the coalition of civil society groups in education. This Bill is a product of the Cabinet, and it was thoroughly discussed,” he noted.
The Ghana Scholarship Authority Bill, 2025 when passed is expected to overhaul the national scholaship scheme to enhance transparency and improve oversight in the administration of scholarships across the country.
The suspension is expected to create space for broader input from civil society, education experts, and the public before Parliament resumes consideration of the piece of legislation to administer scholarships in a more coordinated manner.
By: Christian Kpesese/NR NEWS
