GRASAG's Advocacy for Timely Disbursement of Research Support Grants

The Graduate Students Association of Ghana (GRASAG) has embarked on a determined effort to address the longstanding issue of delayed disbursement of research support grants, commonly referred to as "bursaries", owed to graduate students across the country. This advocacy effort underscores GRASAG's commitment to safeguarding the welfare and academic pursuits of its members.

For years, graduate students in Ghana have faced challenges due to delays in receiving research support grants from the government. These grants are crucial for financing research projects, purchasing materials, attending conferences, and other academic activities essential for their scholarly pursuits. However, the persistent delays in disbursing these funds have hindered students' progress and adversely affected their academic endeavors.

In a bold move to address this issue, the leadership of GRASAG has issued a one-week ultimatum to the government, demanding the immediate payment of the outstanding research support grants owed to graduate students. This ultimatum serves as a decisive call to action, highlighting the urgency and importance of resolving the longstanding issue of delayed fund disbursement.

Earlier in 2024, GRASAG had already raised concerns regarding the three-year delay in the disbursement of research support grants. During a press briefing held in Accra on Wednesday, April 10, the President of the University of Ghana Chapter for GRASAG, Claudius Angsongna, reiterated the adverse impact of this delay on numerous graduate students' activities.

The delay in disbursing research support grants has had far-reaching consequences for graduate students. It has impeded their ability to conduct research, participate in academic conferences, and access essential resources needed for their studies. Additionally, the prolonged wait for funds has caused financial strain and uncertainty among students, hindering their overall academic progress and well-being.

GRASAG's advocacy for the timely disbursement of research support grants is paramount for ensuring the academic success and well-being of graduate students in Ghana. By addressing this issue, GRASAG aims to:

- Ensure Academic Progress: Timely access to research support grants enables graduate students to pursue their academic endeavors without disruptions, facilitating timely completion of their studies and research projects.

- Alleviate Financial Burdens: Prompt disbursement of funds alleviates financial strain on graduate students, allowing them to focus on their studies and research without the added stress of financial uncertainty.

- Uphold Students' Rights: GRASAG's advocacy effort reaffirms the rights of graduate students to receive the support and resources necessary for their academic and research pursuits, thereby promoting equity and fairness within the higher education system.

In advocating for the timely disbursement of research support grants, GRASAG demonstrates its unwavering commitment to championing the interests and welfare of graduate students in Ghana. The issuance of a one-week ultimatum to the government underscores the urgency and importance of addressing this longstanding issue. As GRASAG continues its advocacy efforts, it remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that graduate students receive the necessary support and resources to excel in their academic and research endeavors.

Sincerely,

[Graduate Students of University of Ghana]

[Editor-In-Chief: Ferdinard Fosu-Blankson]

https://mobile.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/UG-graduate-students-lament-over-3-years-of-unpaid-research-bursaries-by-Scholarship-Secretariat-1925202 

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https://citinewsroom.com/2024/04/grasag-issues-one-week-ultimatum-to-govt-over-delay-in-research-support-grants/