The Foreign Affairs Minister Gen. Jeje Odong has launched an investigation into allegations that over 100 Ugandan students were duped into paying $800 each for non-existent scholarships in Iran, leaving them stranded and forcing some into prostitution.
The probe follows a shocking revelation by Igara West MP Gaffa Mbwatekamwa that a fake scholarship scheme, allegedly orchestrated by the office of NRM Chairperson at Kyambogo, lured unsuspecting students to Iran with promises of education, only to abandon them upon arrival.
"It's true that there was a scheme to dupe students and I have a relative who we have just saved from being stranded in Iran," said Dr. Abed Bwanika, MP for Kimanya-Kabonera.
According to Igara West MP Mbwatekamwa, over 200 students were duped by the fake scholarship scheme, with the majority still stranded in Iran.
"This is a serious matter that requires immediate attention," said MP Mbwatekamwa.
"We need to get to the bottom of this and ensure that those responsible are held accountable."
Minister Gen. Jeje Odong assured that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is taking the matter seriously and will investigate thoroughly.
"We are deeply concerned about the welfare of our citizens and will do everything possible to ensure their safety and well-being," said Gen. Odong.
The investigation is expected to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the fake scholarship scheme and identify those responsible.