President Mahama directs NIB to probe alleged scholarship bribery claims

President John Dramani Mahama has directed the National Investigation Bureau (NIB) to launch an immediate investigation into allegations of improper practices in the award of overseas scholarships.

The directive follows claims made during a radio discussion on Sompa 106.5 FM, where a panellist, Mr. Kofi Ofosu Nkansah, former Chief Executive Officer of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), alleged that an individual paid money to secure a scholarship to study abroad.

According to a formal communication issued by the Secretary to the President, Dr. Callistus Mahama, the Presidency considers the allegation a matter of serious public concern, particularly in view of the government’s commitment to transparency, integrity, and fairness in the distribution of educational opportunities.

The directive noted that after reviewing the widely circulated discussion, which was conducted in Twi, the President deemed it necessary for the NIB to establish the facts surrounding the claims.

“The President has directed the National Investigation Bureau to immediately investigate the allegation, establish its factual basis, identify any persons involved, and determine the veracity or otherwise of the claims made,” the statement said.

The NIB has further been tasked to submit its findings to the President for consideration and any subsequent action that may be required.

The move is seen as part of broader efforts by the government to promote accountability and ensure equal access to scholarship opportunities for qualified Ghanaian students.

The scholarship programme, which enables Ghanaian students to pursue academic programmes abroad, has long been considered a vital avenue for human capital development, making allegations of irregularities particularly sensitive.

It remains unclear which specific scholarship scheme the claims relate to, but observers say the investigation could help strengthen transparency and public confidence in government-sponsored educational initiatives.