The Graduate Students Association of Ghana (GRASAG) National Secretariat signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Parliamentary Network Africa (PNAfrica) on Friday, June 21, 2024 aimed to empower graduate students to contribute to evidence-based policy-making in Ghana’s legislative process.

This initiative will provide research support to parliamentary committees to evaluate bills and policies.

One of the key elements of this MOU is to jointly implement a dynamic Parliamentary Fellowship Programme designed to train GRASAG members. This fellowship will focus on building the capacity of participants in parliamentary research and related parliamentary activities, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to contribute effectively to the legislative process.

The programme aims to develop a cohort of well-trained professionals who can support the work of Parliament and enhance the quality of legislative output.

The partnership between GRASAG and PNAfrica represents a significant step towards strengthening the legislative framework of Ghana by leveraging on the research capabilities of GRASAG members. It highlights the critical role that student bodies can play in supporting national development and governance.

PNAfrica Executive Director, Sammy Obeng, emphasized the importance of the MOU, indicating PNAfrica’s readiness to build the capacity of GRASAG members with the necessary expertise instrumental in enhancing the quality of parliamentary research. He highlighted that, “This partnership is not just for today; it’s for the future, creating a legacy that will benefit subsequent officeholders and the broader academic community,” said Mr. Obeng.

GRASAG National President, Emmanuel Owusu also expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "This collaboration with PNAfrica is a significant milestone for GRASAG. It provides our members with an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to the legislative process and gain invaluable experience. We are committed to ensuring that our research efforts will lead to more effective and evidence-based legislation in Ghana."

Emmanuel further intimated that, he sees this partnership as a legacy that he can hand over to those who come after him.

GRASAG and PN Africa are confident that this MOU will pave the way for a more collaborative and evidence-based approach to legislation in Ghana. They believe that this partnership will not only enhance the capacity of GRASAG members but also ensure that Ghana's Parliament is better equipped to address the complex challenges facing the nation.