Ghanaian Medical Students In Cuba Cry For Help After 17 Months Without Stipends

Ghanaian medical students studying under scholarship in Cuba have appealed to President John Dramani Mahama after going 17 months without stipends.

A letter addressed to the President by the Cuban Chapter Executives of the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) called the situation a “humanitarian emergency”.

In addition, it said they had not received a book allowance that is essential for their academic success for five (5) consecutive years.

“Despite repeated appeals to our sponsors-the, the Ghana Scholarship Secretariat—no meaningful action has been taken. Our letters, calls, and formal requests have gone unanswered or unfulfilled.”

“We acknowledge that this situation did not originate under the current administration. However, the severity of the crisis today compels us to appeal directly to His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Ghana.”

Situation on Grounds
According to NUGS, the situation has left some students surviving on bread and water for days or skipping mealtimes altogether.

It also claimed students walk over 10 to 15 kilometres daily to attend lectures and clinical rotations as they cannot afford public transport, plus they are academically isolated, they are unable to afford internet access-essential for research and communication.

It noted that without book allowances, many rely on outdated hand-me-downs or photocopies of medical texts and outdated notes from other people, compromising the quality of their education.

Effect
The Union highlighted the health and mental impact of the situation at hand.

“Several students have fainted during clinical duties due to exhaustion and poor nutrition. Mental health struggles are escalating, with cases of anxiety, depression, and emotional breakdowns becoming increasingly common. Students known to be poor and needy suffering from humiliation, anxiety and depression due to debts owed by Ghanaian students to other foreign countries’ students.”

It affirmed, “This is not merely a financial issue—it is a humanitarian emergency. These are young Ghanaians who came here with dreams of becoming doctors to serve their nation. Today, they are fighting just to survive.”

It therefore appealed to the President to intervene for the immediate disbursement of all outstanding stipends; restore the book allowance and safeguard academic integrity; and establish a sustainable and transparent framework that prevents future lapses in student support.

Story by Hajara Fuseini

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