The University of Bradford Alumni Group, Ghana chapter, recently visited the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), marking a significant effort to strengthen educational ties between the university and the fund. Led by Dr. Joseph Danquah, a distinguished academic at the University of Bradford, the alumni delegation aimed to welcome the newly appointed administrator of GETFund, Mr. Paul Adjei, and explore avenues for strategic collaboration to enhance education in Ghana. This visit underscores the ongoing commitment of the Bradford alumni to support Ghanaian students, particularly those on GETFund scholarships, and to foster a stronger relationship between the university and the fund.

Mr. Adjei assumed office in February 2025. The Bradford Alumni Group’s visit served as a gesture of welcome, highlighting the importance of maintaining strong alumni relations for the benefit of current students and future initiatives. Dr. Joseph Danquah praised Mr. Adjei’s vision for reforms, particularly his focus on transparency and accountability in the awarding of scholarships. He also mentioned Mr. Adjei’s intent to collaborate with the government on a new legislative framework for GETFund, signaling a forward-thinking approach to managing the fund’s resources.

“With his extensive experience in public administration, as well as his work with international development partners, Mr. Adjei’s leadership is expected to drive the Fund’s commitment to supporting the delivery of quality education in Ghana,” – GETFund Staff via Facebook.

Established in 2000 by the Government of Ghana, GETFund plays a vital role in training talents to drive socio-economic growth. The fund provides thousands of scholarships for higher education programs, including fields such as medicine, pharmacy, and engineering, contributing significantly to Ghana’s human capital development.

The Bradford Alumni delegation briefed Mr. Adjei on a mentorship program specifically designed for GETFund scholarship beneficiaries at the University of Bradford. This initiative, inspired by Professor Vishanth Weerakkody, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Global Engagement and Partnerships, is implemented and spearheaded by Dr. Joseph Danquah. The mentorship program offers comprehensive support to students, addressing their academic, well-being, and emotional needs.

“Life abroad is an entirely different experience, especially for students, many of whom are living independently of their parents for the first time. The mentorship programme aims to offer support to every student funded by GETFund and studying at Bradford, making them feel connected and empowered to succeed,” – Dr. Danquah.

The program aims to address the unique challenges faced by students living and studying abroad, providing guidance and support to navigate the academic system and adapt to a new cultural environment. By sharing real-life experiences, mentors help students develop essential skills and prepare them to return home with global perspectives and enhanced leadership capabilities. The program ensures that students are well-equipped to contribute to Ghana’s development upon their return.

Mr. Adjei expressed enthusiasm for deeper engagement between GETFund and the Bradford alumni, acknowledging the mentorship initiative as a powerful model for student success and reintegration. He branded mentorship as “a good pathway to a smooth transition from the classroom to the staffroom” and vowed to explore ways to formally support such programs. The Alumni Group expressed their readiness to collaborate in organizing educational forums and reintegration workshops, aiming to provide career guidance consistent with job market demands.

In November 2024, the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission appointed Dr. Danquah as Academic Adviser, further solidifying his role as a vital link between Ghanaian students and the global academic community. This appointment recognizes Dr. Danquah’s commitment to supporting students and fostering international educational collaborations.

The visit of the Bradford Alumni, led by Dr. Joseph Danquah, to GETFund represents a significant step in strengthening educational ties and providing support to Ghanaian students. The discussions centered on the importance of mentorship programs, the commitment to enhancing transparency and accountability within GETFund, and the potential for future collaborative endeavors. With Mr. Paul Adjei’s leadership, GETFund is well-positioned to continue its crucial role in training talents for Ghana’s socio-economic growth, supported by dedicated alumni networks like the University of Bradford Alumni Group. The alumni’s proactive engagement serves as a model for other institutions and underscores the power of mentorship in fostering student success and global perspectives.