The Controller and Accountant-General, Kwesi Agyei, has disclosed that approximately 4,000 public sector employees face salary deductions to recover outstanding student loans. This action follows the identification of these workers on the government payroll, owing debts to the Student Loan Trust Fund (SLTF).
The deductions will proceed in accordance with existing laws and payroll regulations. This initiative aims to bolster loan recovery, improve repayment compliance, and ensure the student loan scheme's long-term viability. Strengthening the fund allows more students to benefit in the future.
This development comes as Ghana actively seeks to improve financial discipline and strengthen public institutions. Efficient loan recovery is critical for sustaining public services and funds, reducing reliance on external financing or new taxes. The Student Loan Trust Fund has faced challenges with repayment compliance for years. This new measure reflects a concerted effort by state institutions to address these issues. It aligns with broader government strategies to enhance fiscal prudence and accountability across the public sector.
Mr. Agyei confirmed this plan during the launch of the SLTF's 20th anniversary celebrations on Thursday, June 18, 2026. He stated, “We have already identified over 4,000 on the government payroll through the collaboration with the Trust Fund.” Mr. Agyei added, “In the coming days, we will engage with the Trust Fund on the modalities of implementing these deductions. We envisage that this deduction will become one of the important statutory sanctions on their salaries.” This statement underscores the seriousness of the government's commitment to recovering these funds.
This enforcement will likely serve as a strong deterrent against future loan defaults among public sector employees. It could also encourage voluntary repayment by other indebted individuals. For the Student Loan Trust Fund, this guarantees a more stable financial base. This stability enables the SLTF to continue its mission of providing financial support for higher education. All stakeholders will closely monitor the implementation of these deductions and their impact on both loan recovery rates and public sector workers' finances.
Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of the SLTF, Dr. Saajida Shiraz, announced a 50 percent increase in access to the Fund's regular student loan package. This expansion has allowed the SLTF to disburse over GHS 127 million to more than 46,000 students. The Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) has provided timely financial releases, contributing to this achievement. GETFund's Board Chairman, Emmanuel Bedzrah, reaffirmed the commitment to continued support for student loan disbursements. This dual approach of enhanced recovery and increased access aims to create a robust and sustainable student loan system.