The Member of Parliament for Manso Nkwanta, Hon. Tweneboa Kodua Fokuo, has launched the Manso Nkwanta Education Scholarship Scheme, a major educational intervention aimed at supporting brilliant but financially challenged students at both Senior High School and tertiary levels.
Speaking at the launch, Hon. Fokuo described the initiative as a defining moment for the constituency and reaffirmed his commitment to making education the cornerstone of development in Manso Nkwanta.
“This scholarship scheme is born out of conviction, responsibility, and an unshakeable belief in the power of education to transform lives and communities,” he stated.
Education as a Strategic Priority
According to the MP, education must be treated as a strategic investment rather than a social luxury, noting that communities that prioritise education secure long-term prosperity and leadership.
“Education is not merely about certificates. It is about empowerment—unlocking potential, shaping character, and equipping our people with the skills and values required to contribute meaningfully to society,” Hon. Fokuo said.
He stressed that Manso Nkwanta could not afford to allow financial hardship to derail the academic ambitions of its young people.
Focus on Tertiary and SHS Students
Hon. Tweneboa Kodua Fokuo explained that a major component of the scheme is targeted support for tertiary students, many of whom struggle to pay tuition and meet basic academic expenses after gaining admission.
“Too often, brilliant students from this constituency defer admission, drop out, or struggle silently due to financial constraints. Our goal is to ensure that no qualified student from Manso Nkwanta is denied tertiary education solely because of financial hardship,” he noted.
The scheme also extends support to Senior High School students, particularly those from vulnerable backgrounds, to help address residual costs not fully covered under the Free SHS policy.
“While Free SHS has expanded access, costs such as textbooks, transportation, and upkeep continue to burden many families. This intervention is to keep our children in school and allow them to focus on learning rather than financial stress,” the MP added.
Broader Educational Reforms
Beyond scholarships, the MP outlined a broader agenda to improve education delivery across the constituency. These include efforts to enhance teacher accommodation and welfare, refurbish deteriorating school infrastructure, and promote mentorship and guidance programmes for students.
“A child cannot learn effectively in a broken classroom or unsafe environment, and quality education begins with motivated teachers. We are therefore pursuing measures to improve teacher welfare and upgrade school facilities across the constituency,” he said.
Hon. Fokuo also highlighted the importance of mentorship, stating that many students fail not because of lack of intelligence but due to lack of guidance and exposure.
Commitment to Transparency
The MP assured residents that the scholarship scheme would be administered with transparency and fairness, devoid of political, religious, or social bias.
“Education unites us, and it must never be politicised. Clear eligibility criteria and open selection processes will guide the administration of this scheme,” he emphasised.
Call to Beneficiaries
Addressing prospective beneficiaries, Hon. Tweneboa Kodua Fokuo urged students to take the opportunity seriously and uphold discipline and good moral values.
“This support is not an entitlement—it is an opportunity. Your success will not only be personal; it will be a victory for your family, your community, and Manso Nkwanta as a whole,” he said.
The event was attended by traditional authorities, education officials, religious leaders, teachers, parents, and students, all of whom commended the initiative as a timely intervention to strengthen human capital development in the constituency.
