Parliament suspends consideration of Scholarship Authority Bill for wider consultation

Parliament has suspended the ongoing consideration of the Ghana Scholarship Authority Bill 2025, following mounting public concern and calls for broader stakeholder engagement.

The move comes after the Citizens’ Coalition—a network of civil society groups and influential individuals—urged Parliament to stop the fast-tracked passage of the bill, which is being processed under a certificate of urgency.

The suspension was announced during clause-by-clause deliberations on Thursday, July 17. Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, revealed that the Presidency had advised a temporary halt to allow for more dialogue and consultation.

“The Office of the President has conveyed some concerns, and I have requested the committee chairman to pause proceedings so we can engage further,” the Minister told Parliament.

He added that consultations had already begun, noting that on Tuesday, July 15, the Ministry met with a coalition of civil society groups in education. “This bill is the result of extensive Cabinet discussions,” he emphasized.

Chairman of the Education Committee, Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, had earlier noted that the bill aims to boost transparency and strengthen oversight in scholarship distribution nationwide.

However, critics argue that rushing such a significant reform through Parliament could compromise transparency and erode public confidence.

The decision to suspend the process is expected to allow for broader public input before Parliament resumes debate on the legislation.