A massive earthquake has struck Gaziantep, Turkey, killing over 10,000 and leaving Ghanaian students from Gaziantep University stranded. These students now seek escape from the affected area to Ankara. Despite efforts to secure bus tickets from the Ghana-Turkey embassy, they have failed.
Student Abdullah Rabiu expressed frustration, “The embassy told us to buy tickets ourselves with a promise of a later refund. Life is too important to play these games. Our lives are at risk from aftershocks.”
However, Ghana’s Ambassador to Turkey, Francisca Ashietey-Odunton, confirmed that all Ghanaian students in affected areas are safe. The President of the Ghanaian Students in Turkey accounted for all registered students, except Christian Atsu who they have found injured. Despite the emergency and difficulty in communication, the Ambassador assured everyone has been accounted for.
The Turkish authorities provide temporary tents, food, and warmth for the students’ safety. The Ambassador advised students to not enter buildings and stated, “They are fine for now but we cannot go there.”
In this crisis, our thoughts and prayers go to the students, their families, and all affected by the earthquake. We hope the embassy will quickly find a solution to help these students reach safety.