The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, says the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will introduce a legislation aimed at reforming the country’s scholarship system if they win the December elections.

According to him, corruption in the country has now infiltrated and taken control of the scholarship system.

Speaking at a press briefing on September 3, he accused some politicians and high-ranking officials of exploiting scholarships that are meant for deserving, underprivileged students.

“We have politically exposed persons, ministers, MPs, government officials fighting with the vulnerable, poor people in North Tongu and elsewhere. Brilliant but needy people fighting with tall politicians, elite who are so endowed, who have resources. They are grabbing the scholarships for themselves and we all know the story that one is out there campaigning. He doesn’t even show remorse, he has no shame,“ he said.

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Mr Ablakwa stated that the NDC plans to enact a new law that will strictly regulate scholarship eligibility.

He explained that under the proposed legislation, no politically exposed persons or their immediate family members would be eligible for scholarships.

“If you are a government minister, serving under Mahama, you, your wife and children cannot benefit. No appointee can benefit from scholarship. We are going to have a law and it will be clear. The corruption has no limits. Even poor vulnerable poor people, they are exploiting them.”

“So we are saying that enough of this madness. We are going to have a new law to regulate scholarships and make sure the scholarships are reserved for the poor, vulnerable, needy but brilliant and those who are going to pursue courses that align with our strategic national development objectives,” he said.