The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has introduced a new scholarship scheme to help Members of Parliament (MPs) and Parliamentary Service staff gain advanced academic training to improve their leadership and governance abilities.
The project is a partnership between Parliament and Noble University (NiBS). It will offer scholarships for doctoral programmes in leadership, governance, innovation, and related fields.
“Knowledge Is Key to Good Leadership” — Bagbin
Speaking at the launch at Parliament House on Monday, Mr. Bagbin said education is one of the strongest tools for effective leadership. He noted that good governance is not achieved through power alone but through knowledge, reflection, and moral courage.
The event was held under the theme “Empowering Governance Through Advanced Scholarship.” It forms part of the Speaker’s plan to make Ghana’s Parliament a leading center for leadership and government education in Africa.
The Speaker said Ghana’s democratic success depends on the quality and capacity of the people who lead it. He stressed that MPs must constantly upgrade their knowledge to make informed decisions that reflect the needs of citizens.
Why the Scholarship Matters
According to Mr. Bagbin, continuous training will help MPs and staff stay updated on important issues, global best practices, and policy research. He believes this will lead to strong institutions, ethical leadership, and policies that better serve Ghanaians.
He added that investing in advanced education would have a ripple effect on national governance, as beneficiaries will use their new skills to drive positive change across the country.
Background of the Scholarship
On June 18, 2025, NiBS University launched a $108,000 scholarship programme in honour of the Speaker. The initiative aims to train 20 MPs and Parliamentary Service staff to strengthen parliamentary work and support national development.
Professor Kwaku Atuahene-Gima, Founder and President of NiBS University, explained that applicants must have their forms endorsed by the Speaker. He said the scholarship focuses on capacity building, knowledge-sharing, and peer learning among MPs and staff.
A few days later, on June 26, 2025, Mr. Bagbin formally informed MPs of the Speaker’s Scholarship. He said the programme shows NiBS University’s commitment to supporting academic advancement in Parliament.
Programmes Covered
The scholarship covers several high-level graduate programmes, including:
PhD in Business Administration
Doctor of Business Leadership
Doctor of Public Sector Innovation and Leadership
The scholarship value ranges from $1,399 to $7,599, depending on the chosen programme.
Mr. Bagbin said the opportunity would promote lifelong learning, improve legislative research, and strengthen the connection between academic knowledge and governance.
Positive Reactions from Parliament
Many MPs and Parliamentary Service staff have welcomed the scholarship scheme. They see it as an important opportunity to improve their skills, enhance decision-making, and contribute more effectively to national development.
They praised the Speaker and NiBS University for their commitment to quality education and capacity building in Parliament.
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