The Korea International Cooperation Agency(KOICA) Ghana held an orientation programme for the latest recipients of the KOICA Scholarship Programme, a major category of its Capacity Improvement and Advancement for Tomorrow (CIAT) Fellowship Programme. 

The event marked the beginning of an exciting journey for 25 scholarship awardees, who were set to pursue advanced studies (Masters and PhD) in South Korea.

The orientation programme held recently in Accra was a comprehensive session aimed at preparing the awardees for their academic and cultural experiences in Korea. 

The event featured a series of informative presentations and interactive sessions designed to equip the scholars with essential knowledge and skills.

In his opening remarks, the Ambassador of Korea to Ghana, Mr Kyongsig Park congratulated the awardees on their achievement and reminded them of the significance of their roles in strengthening the partnership between Ghana and Korea. 

He likened  KOICA Scholarship programme to the ongoing Olympic Games in France, saying that it also brings together outstanding talents from 100 countries, all competing to gain more knowledge and experience in Korea. 

He added that, “all awardees are the representatives of Ghana and must endevour to succeed in this competition, as it will lay the foundation for a brighter future for Ghana.”

The orientation programme further featured a special moment for the 2022 KOICA SP cohorts, who were officially inducted as alumni. 

This recognition celebrated their successful completion of their studies and their ongoing contributions to the development of Ghana.

The KOICA CIAT Fellowship programme continues to be a beacon of educational excellence and international collaboration, offering Ghanaian public officials the chance to gain world-class education and bring back valuable expertise to support the development of their nation.

There were knowledge-sharing segments as  as  key presentations focusing on the prospects of scholarships in Korea, providing the awardees with detailed information on the academic opportunities, cultural experiences, and career advancements available through the CIAT Fellowship. 

This was led by Doctor Llyod G. Adu Amoah, Director of Center for Asian Studies at University of Ghana.

Ms. Eunsoo Oh, the Deputy Country Director of the KOICA Ghana office, delivered a presentation on KOICA’s values and integrity pledge, urging all individuals and entities associated with KOICA to uphold these principles.

Another presentation offered a personal perspective, as a distinguished Alumnus, Ms. Abena Manso- Howard recounted her experiences, giving the new scholars a firsthand account of life and learning in Korea. 

The orientation also emphasized the importance of the awardees serving as exemplary ambassadors of Ghana. 

They were encouraged to uphold the laws of Korea and to embody the values of diligence, respect, and integrity throughout their stay.