The University of Ghana has commemorated 20 years of its Students Financial Aid Office (SFAO) with a two-day celebration that highlighted the office’s transformative role in the lives of financially disadvantaged students.
The event held at the Institute of Statistical Social and Economic Research (ISSER) conference hall brought together past beneficiaries, university officials, donors, and members of the public to reflect on the SFAO’s legacy. Through emotional testimonials and inspiring speeches, participants recounted how the office has helped shape academic and personal journeys across two decades.
Among the speakers was Emmanuel Ayemzokiya, a student living with a hearing disability, who shared his story under the theme “Deaf, Determination and Destiny.”
“I had no hope of continuing my education. I told the interview panel honestly that I couldn’t pay the fees and wouldn’t be able to attend the university. It was the contribution of one of the panelists that secured my fees,” he told the audience.
Ayemzokiya expressed deep gratitude to the office, saying the support he received went beyond financial aid.
”Without support from the University of Ghana’s Student Financial Aid Office, I would not have had a chance for my future to be attained,” he said. “But aside from the academic support, they give me motivation as well and a hope that disability is not inability.”
Former SRC President Frank Tsikata, also a past beneficiary of the SFAO, recounted how the office helped him overcome difficult circumstances during his time as a student.
”I managed to find the funds to come to school, but the reality on the ground was tough. The stress from home started taking a toll on me, affecting my mental health and academic performance.”
He acknowledged skepticism about the aid application process but said his own experience proved its credibility and fairness.
“When you’re outside the Student Financial Aid Office, a lot of students are skeptical because they think the application process is strict, or just a facade. But it isn’t,” he said.
Tsikata credited the SFAO with giving him a “second chance” at becoming the person he aspired to be.
The anniversary celebration served not only as a tribute to the past but also as a rallying call to strengthen student support systems. Speakers and attendees praised the office’s dedication and called for more institutional and donor commitment to its work in the years ahead.
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Story by Edward Chika Ahiakwo|univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Michelle Lartey
UG SFAO marks 20 years of student aid with stories of hope, resilience
