COCOBOD Scraps Scholarship Scheme

The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has announced the termination of its scholarship scheme citing the implementation of the Free Senior High School (FSHS) initiative.

At a press conference on May 20, 2024, the Board Chairman of the Board of Directors, Peter Mac Manu made public the decision of the Board, noting the FSHS policy had rendered the scholarship scheme redundant.

It intends to constitute what it calls the Ghana Cocoa Board Education Trust in place of the scholarship scheme which according to them has lost its core purpose.

“With the advent of the free SHS by the Akufo-Addo administration, it’s time for us to adapt and evolve. The COCOBOD Scholarship Scheme, while a notable and valuable programme, has naturally lost its core purpose.”

“The COCOBOD Scholarship scheme while a longstanding and valuable programme has naturally run its course. As we bid farewell to the scholarship scheme, we must look forward and prioritise the continued educational advancement of cocoa farming communities. It is with this vision in mind that the Board of Directors has decided to establish the Ghana Cocoa Board Education Trust.”

Urging stakeholders to embrace the Trust, he said it will prioritise providing essential primary school infrastructure in under-served cocoa growing areas.

“This Trust is a testament to our unwavering commitment to the wellbeing and prosperity of our cocoa farmers and their children. The primary objective of the Education Trust is to focus on providing essential primary school infrastructure in under-served cocoa growing areas. By investing in the educational foundation of these communities, we aim to create a lasting impact that will benefit generations to come.”

The Cocoa Scholarship Award Scheme which has been in place for years sponsored the education of the wards of farmers in second-cycle schools.

According to the COCOBOD website, about 7,500 students were sponsored annually for the 3-year stream or 10,000 students for the 4-year stream.