The Member of Parliament for Manso Nkwanta, Tweneboa Kodua Fokuo, has launched the Manso Nkwanta Education Scholarship Scheme to help needy but brilliant students in his constituency.
Speaking at the launch, the MP said the initiative was born out of conviction, responsibility, and an unshakeable belief in the power of education to transform lives and communities.
“Today marks a defining moment in our collective journey as a constituency. It is a moment to reflect on where we have come from, confront the challenges that still face us, and reaffirm our determination to ensure that every child of Manso Nkwanta has access to quality education, regardless of background or circumstance,” he stated.
Mr Fokuo stressed that education goes beyond academic certificates, describing it as a tool for empowerment and personal development.
“Education is not merely about certificates. It is about unlocking potential, shaping character, building confidence, and equipping our people with the skills and values required to contribute meaningfully to society,” he said.
According to him, many brilliant students from the constituency have had their academic dreams disrupted due to financial difficulties, even after gaining admission into tertiary institutions.
“Too often, financial constraints have cut short promising journeys. Some students defer admission year after year. Some drop out midway. Others struggle silently under the burden of fees, accommodation, and basic living expenses. This scholarship scheme is our response to that reality,” the MP explained.
He noted that a major component of the scheme is support for tertiary students, which he described as an investment in the future workforce of the constituency.
“We recognise that tertiary education is where advanced knowledge is acquired, professional skills are honed, and leadership capacity is developed. No qualified student from Manso Nkwanta should be denied tertiary education solely because of financial hardship,” he emphasised.
He added that beneficiaries of the scheme would be expected to uphold discipline, integrity and a strong sense of service.
“We expect beneficiaries not only to excel academically but to become proud representatives of this constituency wherever they find themselves,” he said.
The MP also highlighted support for Senior High School students, acknowledging that despite the Free SHS policy, many families still struggle with residual costs.
“Textbooks, learning materials, transportation, and personal upkeep still pose challenges for many families. This scheme is therefore designed to keep students in school, reduce absenteeism and dropout rates, and allow our young people to focus on learning rather than financial stress,” he noted.
Beyond scholarships, the MP outlined broader efforts to improve education in the constituency, including teacher welfare, infrastructure development and mentorship.
“Quality education begins with quality teachers, yet many teachers posted here face serious accommodation challenges. Improving teacher welfare is essential to motivation, retention, and stability in our schools,” he said.
He also pledged continued refurbishment of school infrastructure, stressing that a conducive learning environment is critical to academic success.
“A child cannot learn effectively in a broken classroom or unsafe environment. That is why we are prioritising classroom renovation, furniture provision, sanitation facilities, and basic teaching and learning resources,” he stated.
The MP further noted that many students struggle not because they lack intelligence, but because they lack guidance and direction.
“We will encourage mentorship programmes that link students with professionals and community leaders to guide them in career choices, discipline, leadership, and personal development,” he added.
He assured residents that the scholarship scheme would be administered with fairness, transparency and accountability.
“Clear eligibility criteria will be applied. The process will be open and inclusive. Education unites us and must never be politicized,” he stressed.
The MP also reminded beneficiaries that the scholarship scheme is an opportunity, not an entitlement.
“Use it wisely. Study diligently. Uphold good moral values. Your success is not only personal; it is a victory for your family, your community, and Manso Nkwanta as a whole,” he said.
“By supporting students, improving teacher welfare, upgrading infrastructure, and strengthening mentorship, we are laying a strong and sustainable foundation for educational excellence.”
By: Ekow Annan/newsalertgh.com
