By Alex Ababio
President John Dramani Mahama has revealed plans to provide 1,000 university scholarships for students from ECOWAS countries to pursue higher education in Ghana. The move is aimed at deepening regional integration through shared academic and cultural experiences.
Speaking at the official launch of ECOWAS’s 50th anniversary celebration in Accra on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, President Mahama emphasized the importance of youth engagement in building a united West Africa.
Held under the theme “Celebrating 50 Years of West African Unity and Integration,” the event brought together regional leaders, top government officials, and ECOWAS Commission representatives.
“To mark this moment and strengthen regional bonds, Ghana is offering a thousand scholarships to tertiary students from across the ECOWAS sub-region to study in our universities,” Mr. Mahama stated.
He described the scholarship initiative as more than a symbolic gesture. “This is not just a gesture,” he added. “It is a bridge to a future where our young people will grow up seeing each other not as foreigners but as partners.”
President Mahama further highlighted that diplomacy should extend beyond resolving conflicts to fostering peace, inclusivity, and shared progress. He advocated for more investment in youth and education to build lasting regional unity.
“Our drive for integration through diplomacy must extend to economic, social and cultural areas,” he said. “Whether it is harmonising trade negotiations or advancing cooperation in education and health, our diplomatic tools must always work in the service of our people.”
The scholarship programme will be rolled out in collaboration with Ghana’s public universities and managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration.
Founded in 1975, ECOWAS was created to enhance economic and political cooperation among West African nations. As the bloc turns 50, President Mahama called on fellow leaders to implement actionable strategies that make ECOWAS more impactful, especially for the region’s youth.