Yapei-Kusawgu students benefit as Jinapor disburses GH¢1 million

The Member of Parliament for the Yapei-Kusawgu Constituency and Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr John Abdulai Jinapor, has commenced the disbursement of financial assistance to students in the constituency under his Common Fund Educational Support Initiative.

Although the MP was unable to attend the exercise in person due to official duties outside the country, the disbursement was conducted on his behalf by members of the Fund’s Technical Committee.

Addressing students and stakeholders, a member of the Technical Committee, Bridgewurche Barchisu, conveyed greetings from Jinapor and apologised for the late start of the exercise.

She acknowledged the inconvenience caused to applicants, many of whom travelled from various parts of the constituency and beyond, including Tamale, to participate.

She explained that the delay was not due to lack of funds but rather the need to complete due process.

According to her, the MP took steps to formally establish and register an Educational Trust Fund to expand and sustain support to students. The registration process, which involved external institutions and laid-down procedures, contributed to the delay.

Bridgewurche Barchisu noted that the new structure will ensure consistent and adequate funding every year, addressing challenges associated with previous disbursements.

As part of the new arrangement, two committees have been constituted: a Central Committee to provide oversight and a Technical Committee responsible for the actual disbursement of funds.

She disclosed that the Central Committee has completed its work and officially handed over an amount of GH¢1 million to the Technical Committee to begin disbursement.

She added that part of the funds has already been released, and the exercise will continue throughout the week until all approved beneficiaries are paid.

Under the current disbursement arrangement, beneficiaries are being paid according to academic category. PhD and Master’s students are receiving GH¢1,500 each, Degree students GH¢1,200, while Certificate and Diploma students are receiving GH¢800.

Bridgewurche Barchisu cautioned applicants against having unrealistic expectations regarding individual amounts, explaining that the funds are being distributed equitably to enable more students to benefit.

She assured beneficiaries of the MP’s continued commitment to education in the constituency, emphasising that the priority is ensuring students receive the needed support, regardless of who physically presents it.

Speaking at the event, the District Chief Executive for Central Gonja, Mahama Fusheini, described the occasion as both a day of joy and accountability.

He commended the Central Committee of the John Jinapor Educational Trust Fund, made up of traditional leaders and professionals, for their transparency and dedication.

The DCE stressed that the initiative is non-partisan and open to all eligible students, regardless of political affiliation.

He explained that applications were processed strictly based on submission and documentation, without discrimination.

Mahama Fusheini praised Jinapor for his appointment as Minister for Energy and Green Transition and a Cabinet Minister, describing it as a source of pride for the Chiefs and People of Central Gonja, the youth, and the Savannah Region at large.

He urged beneficiaries to appreciate the support received, noting that even modest assistance can make a significant difference in their academic journey.

He also appealed to applicants to exercise patience during the payment process to avoid errors, assuring them of the MP’s continued commitment to supporting education in the constituency.

The disbursement exercise is expected to be completed successfully within the week, benefiting students across the Yapei-Kusawgu Constituency.