Ghanaian PhD students studying in the United Kingdom have announced plans to stage a major demonstration over prolonged delays in the payment of tuition fees and stipends by the Ghana Scholarship Authority (GSA).
In a statement dated April 6, 2026, the executive body of the UK PhD cohort accused the Authority of neglecting students, revealing that many have gone between 15 and 40 months without receiving their living allowances. The group said the situation has left several students in distress, with some reportedly facing deportation after their universities withdrew them due to unpaid tuition fees. Others have been denied access to academic portals, while hundreds have been referred to debt collection agencies.
According to the statement, the crisis has forced some affected students into severe hardship, with reports indicating that a number of them now rely on food banks to survive.
Despite previous engagements with the Ghana Scholarship Authority and the Ghana High Commission in London, the students say their concerns remain unresolved. They also criticised the Authority for continuing to award new scholarships to students in other countries while neglecting those already studying in the UK.
A key concern raised is the failure to issue renewal letters required for academic registration. The students noted that for over 15 months, these letters have not been provided, making it impossible for continuing students to enrol for the 2025/2026 academic year.
The cohort further expressed worry over funding constraints, claiming that out of an expected GH¢256 million budget allocation, only GH¢37 million is being considered for disbursement, an amount they describe as inadequate. They estimate that the Authority owes about GH¢56 million to PhD students alone.
As a result, the students have scheduled a protest for April 17, 2026, at the Ghana High Commission in London. The demonstration will include a march to the British Parliament and the BBC, where they intend to engage lawmakers and the media on their plight.
The group insists the protest is a lawful exercise of their rights and a last resort after failed diplomatic efforts.
They warned that further demonstrations could be held if urgent action is not taken, including a planned protest on May 31, 2026, coinciding with a visit by Ghana’s President to the UK.
The students say the protest will only be called off if the government releases funds to the Scholarship Authority and begins settling the outstanding payments before the scheduled date.
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