Haruna Iddrisu urges EU to simplify visa process for Ghanaian students

The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has called on European Union (EU) member states to adopt more flexible and generous visa policies for Ghanaian students. Speaking at the 2026 Study in Europe Fair, the Minister highlighted the importance of international education in bridging Ghana's developmental gaps and meeting its future manpower requirements. He emphasized that facilitating easier access to European educational institutions would allow Ghanaian students to acquire specialized knowledge and skills essential for the nation's growth.

Minister Iddrisu noted that while many students are eager to pursue higher education abroad, the complexities and stringency of current visa processes often act as a significant barrier. By streamlining these procedures, he argued, the EU could strengthen its educational partnership with Ghana and contribute more effectively to the country's human resource development. This appeal underscores the government's focus on ensuring that Ghanaian youth have the opportunity to compete and learn on a global stage.

In addition to his appeal to international partners, Iddrisu addressed the need for internal improvements within Ghana’s own educational support structures. He called for comprehensive reforms to the national scholarship system to ensure that financial aid is allocated based on merit and transparency. The Minister stressed that the scholarship application process must be diligent and fair, specifically targeting deserving students whose fields of study align with the strategic manpower needs of the country.

The 2026 Study in Europe Fair serves as a key platform for Ghanaian students to explore academic opportunities across the European continent. Minister Iddrisu's remarks signal the government's dual commitment to expanding global educational opportunities and ensuring that domestic scholarship resources are managed effectively. These efforts are intended to create a more robust pipeline of skilled professionals capable of driving Ghana’s socio-economic progress in the coming years.