Dzodze: Mr Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah-Atokple, a Council of State Member representing the Volta Region, has described the Edem Agbana Scholarship Scheme as a defining moment in the quest for educational empowerment. Speaking as the Special Guest at the launch of the scholarship scheme in Dzodze, he emphasized that the initiative would bring hope to many young men and women aspiring to pursue higher education but faced financial difficulties.
According to Ghana News Agency, one of the most commendable aspects of the scheme is its full scholarship support for all 22 people living with disabilities who applied, ensuring that their financial struggles do not hinder their educational aspirations. Additionally, over 200 other students have received various scholarship packages, significantly reducing their financial burden.
“This initiative is not just about providing financial aid; it is about ensuring that education is seen as a right, not a privilege. It is a strong signal that, as a community, we believe in equity, inclusion, and the potential of every individual,” Mr Kwamigah-Atokple stated. He highlighted that this initiative aligns with the President’s vision of free tertiary education for persons living with disabilities, reinforcing the need for equal access to education for all.
Mr Kwamigah-Atokple, who is also the founder of the Tanko Foundation, reaffirmed his belief that education is not just a personal achievement, but a transformative tool that uplifts entire communities. “When we invest in education, we are not just changing individual lives; we are strengthening our communities and laying a solid foundation for national development,” he remarked.
He acknowledged and commended the leadership and dedication of Mr. Eric Edem Agbana, the Member of Parliament for Ketu North, whose commitment to education, youth empowerment, and social inclusion made the initiative possible. “This scholarship scheme is more than just financial aid. It is a symbol of opportunity, progress, and our collective responsibility to uplift our people,” he added.
He called on stakeholders, businesses, institutions, and well-meaning individuals to support this noble initiative, emphasizing that true transformation can only be achieved through collaborative efforts. “If we truly want to see meaningful change in our communities, we must come together to invest in education. It is the most powerful tool for shaping a brighter future,” he urged.
He reminded the beneficiaries that the scholarship was not just a gift but an investment-an opportunity that must be valued and utilized to its fullest potential. “Progress is not measured by how much we have achieved individually, but by how many people we have uplifted along the way. That is why I am fully committed to this initiative and will continue to support it in any way possible,” he said.
To demonstrate his commitment, Mr Kwamigah-Atokple announced a seed donation of GHC 100,000 towards the Edem Agbana Scholarship Scheme. “This is not a gift but an investment in the future of our young people in Ketu North. My foundation, my partners, and I will ensure that annually, we contribute towards this initiative, working alongside Edem Agbana and his team to expand its impact,” he declared.
He expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to making the scholarship programme a reality and encouraged the beneficiaries to embrace the opportunity, remain focused, and strive for academic excellence. The Member of Parliament for Ketu North, Mr. Edem Agbana reaffirmed that his election as MP was not just the realization of a political ambition, but a ministry to impact lives. “This scholarship scheme is born out of a deep sense of duty to uplift and empower the people of Ketu North,” he said.
The Edem Agbana Scholarship Scheme has been praised with many hopefuls that it will serve as a blueprint for future educational support programs in the country.