By Valentia Tetteh
Parliament has introduced a major initiative aimed at enhancing the intellectual and leadership capacity of Ghana’s lawmakers and parliamentary staff. The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has launched a new scholarship scheme designed to equip Members of Parliament (MPs) and Parliamentary Service staff with advanced training in leadership, governance, and innovation.
Developed in partnership with the Nobel International Business University (NiBS), the programme will offer doctoral-level scholarships under the theme “Empowering Governance Through Advanced Scholarship.” The scheme is expected to deepen knowledge within Parliament and support high-level legislative work that reflects the aspirations of Ghanaians.
Speaking at the launch at Parliament House, the Speaker emphasized the critical role of continuous learning in sustaining Ghana’s democracy.
“The success of Ghana’s democracy depends on the quality of minds that sustain it. If we are to build a Parliament that mirrors the hopes and needs of our citizens, then we must invest in the intellectual growth of those who serve,” he noted.
President of NiBS, Professor Kwaku Atuahene-Gima, highlighted that 20 beneficiaries will be selected for the inaugural phase, adding that all applicants will require the Speaker’s endorsement. He stressed that the programme will promote innovation, improve parliamentary output, and enhance personal development.
Clerk to Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a significant step toward strengthening Parliament’s institutional mandate. Deputy Clerk for Information Management Services and NiBS alumna, Dr. Gloria Sarku, also underscored the importance of ensuring equity particularly for women MPs.
The programme received bipartisan commendation. Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu praised the Speaker for championing intellectual advancement, while Deputy Minority Leader Patricia Appiagyei and Deputy Majority Leader Kwaku Ricketts-Hagan affirmed their caucuses’ full support.
With this scholarship scheme, Parliament is charting a new path toward a more informed, innovative, and inclusive legislative leadership.
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