Bagbin: Parents who send children abroad too early to study ‘don’t love them’

Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has expressed concern over the increasing trend of Ghanaian parents sending their children abroad for education at very young ages, warning that the practice could weaken family relationships and reduce children's connection to Ghana.

Speaking at the launch of the National Integrity Awards Scheme at the D.F. Annan Auditorium in Parliament on Monday, July 27, 2026, Mr. Bagbin urged parents to allow their children to complete their basic and secondary education in Ghana before considering opportunities for overseas studies.

The Speaker argued that a child's formative years play a critical role in shaping values, identity, and a sense of belonging, and that separating children from their families at an early age could affect their emotional connection to both their parents and their country.

Mr. Bagbin said parents who send young children abroad may unintentionally create distance between themselves and their children, as well as weaken the children's appreciation of Ghanaian culture and traditions.

"Many of you who rush your children abroad to study, I beg you, you don't love your children because you know you are going to lose them," he said.

According to the Speaker, children who remain in Ghana through their early years are more likely to develop stronger family ties, cultural awareness, and a deeper understanding of their national identity.

He encouraged parents to focus on building strong foundations for their children locally before exposing them to international educational opportunities.

Mr. Bagbin said pursuing overseas education at a more mature stage, particularly at the postgraduate level, provides a better balance between international exposure and maintaining a connection to Ghana.

"It’s when they study here and get to a stage of maturity, and they want to advance, and they are going to do a Master’s, PhD, and that kind of thing, then you have hope that they will come back," he stated.

He suggested that young people who first receive their education and upbringing in Ghana are more likely to appreciate their roots and eventually contribute to national development.

The Speaker expressed concern that children who grow up abroad from infancy may lose important connections with their families and Ghanaian traditions.

"Those you carry as babies and send there, they don’t even come to your funeral. It’s true. They don’t know you. They don’t have any attachment. They don’t like your country. There’s no patriotism there. They don’t know what a family is," he said.

He emphasized that education should not only focus on academic achievement but should also help develop character, cultural values, and social responsibility.

Mr. Bagbin appealed to parents to reconsider the practice and prioritize raising children in Ghana during their formative years.

"Please, I beg you, let’s change our ways," he urged.

The Speaker's comments were made during the launch of the National Integrity Awards Scheme, an initiative designed to promote ethical leadership, accountability, and integrity among individuals and institutions in Ghana.

The programme seeks to recognize and encourage citizens and organizations that demonstrate strong moral values and contribute positively to society.

Mr. Bagbin used the occasion to highlight the importance of raising future generations who are not only academically equipped but also committed to national values and responsible citizenship.