The Chief Executive Officer of Best Education Services Limited, Ishmael Muslim, has cautioned Ghanaian students seeking higher education in Canada against relying solely on random online searches when selecting universities. He warned that some institutions found online may not be accredited to admit international students from Ghana. This warning was made at a Study in Canada Fair held in Accra on Monday, September 21, 2026.
The Study in Canada Fair brought together representatives of 20 accredited Canadian universities and prospective Ghanaian students. The event was designed to give applicants direct access to university officials for information on admissions, scholarships, funding, internships and other aspects of studying in Canada. This direct engagement allows students to obtain accurate and reliable information that may not be readily available online.
According to Mr Muslim, the growing reliance on online applications could expose prospective students to fraudulent operators and institutions if applicants fail to properly verify their choices. He emphasized that not every university or college in Canada is accredited to recruit or grant admissions to international students or to Ghanaian students. This highlights the importance of verifying the credibility of institutions before applying.
The fair provided students with information on scholarship opportunities. A representative of Niagara College said the institution was offering a $4,000 scholarship to every eligible student from Ghana. The college also highlighted more than 100 programmes across fields including business, hospitality, healthcare, engineering, media and community services. This information can greatly benefit students seeking financial aid and diverse academic programs.
For students, the opportunity to speak directly with university officials provided access to information beyond what they could find through online searches. One prospective applicant described the experience as valuable, saying, “I've gotten deeper knowledge and I'm grateful that I took this chance to come over here.” This demonstrates the value of such events in helping students make informed decisions.
Best Education Services said its support extends beyond helping students secure admission. Mr Muslim said the company assists prospective students with programme selection, financing, visa applications and accommodation, while also connecting them with Ghanaians already studying at their destination institutions. This comprehensive support system aims to ensure students' success abroad.
The fair forms part of efforts by Best Education Services and international institutions to provide prospective students with verified information as demand for overseas education continues to grow among Ghanaians. It also comes amid rising concern over study-abroad fraud, with applicants sometimes losing money to unverified agents and institutions that cannot admit international students. Mr Muslim urged students to treat studying abroad as a serious process and seek guidance from recognised professionals.
Key points
- Best Education Services CEO Ishmael Muslim warns Ghanaian students to verify Canadian universities before applying.
- The Study in Canada Fair provided students with information on scholarship opportunities and 100+ academic programs.
- Best Education Services offers comprehensive support to students, including programme selection, financing, and visa applications.
