Ghana is seeking an exemption from the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) for its students and professionals, arguing that English has long been the country’s medium of instruction.
The call was made by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, during talks with the British High Commissioner to Ghana, Christian Rogg, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra.
Mr Ablakwa said the request formed part of broader discussions aimed at strengthening ties between Ghana and the United Kingdom, as both countries begin processes to elevate their bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership.
In a post on Facebook, the minister said he had appealed for Ghanaian students and professionals to be exempted from both the IELTS requirement and the associated fees, especially for those seeking to study or work in the UK.
He also called for a government-to-government framework to improve the protection and working conditions of Ghanaian health professionals in Britain, noting that many continue to contribute significantly to the UK’s health sector.
According to Mr Ablakwa, the meeting reviewed what he described as “buoyant bilateral relations” and aligned priority areas for cooperation in 2026, in line with the vision of President John Dramani Mahama.
The discussions identified key sectors for deeper collaboration, including security, trade, job creation, health, education, governance and constitutional review.
Ghana and the UK, he added, have already begun steps to formalise their cooperation under a Strategic Partnership arrangement, which is expected to enhance engagement across multiple areas of mutual interest.
The meeting ended on a lighter note, with Mr Ablakwa joking that he would host the British High Commissioner in his home constituency of North Tongu for a traditional meal of akple and fetri detsi if Ghana’s Black Stars defeat England at the World Cup.
