The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, says government is actively working to expand the Students Loan Trust Fund (SLTF) to benefit students across all tertiary institutions—both public and private—nationwide.
Speaking at a sensitisation and registration event at the University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale, the minister reaffirmed government’s commitment to easing the financial burden on Ghanaian students.
“We are committed to reducing the financial stress on Ghanaian students. We are currently evaluating the numbers, and we will ensure transparency and openness in the disbursement process,” he stated.
The event, which formed part of the roll-out of the “No Fee Stress” initiative, brought together about 1,500 students from tertiary institutions in the Northern Region and parts of the Middle Belt.
Mr. Iddrisu revealed that government has allocated about GH¢500 million to the SLTF to cover tuition and academic costs for private tertiary students in 2025.
Disbursements are set to begin in June, with an initial batch of 40,000 students each receiving GH¢2,500.
He also hinted at steps being taken to address outstanding allowances owed to teacher and nursing trainees, noting that payments for over 65,000 beneficiaries are being prioritised.
The Education Minister further touched on the Free SHS policy, announcing that a committee had been set up to review its implementation.
“The committee is expected to present its report to the President soon. We are committed to improving the policy through constructive review and stakeholder engagement,” he added.
The CEO of the SLTF, Dr. Saajida Shiraz, used the opportunity to clarify that the “No Fee Stress” support is not a loan.
“It’s a support system, not something students have to repay. We want to make education accessible and stress-free for every Ghanaian student,” she explained.
