Education News from Ghana

The latest education news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

A large group of participants, consisting of men and women in diverse attire, poses for a commemorative photo during the 5th Annual Meeting on Gender and Rural Advisory Services. The group is positioned on a staircase outside a light blue building, standing in front of a white event banner.
education|

Dr. Clement Apaak Advocates for Foundational Learning Partnerships as Over 2,500 Teachers Complete Play-Based Training Program

Ghana is intensifying its commitment to foundational education and teacher professionalism through strategic international partnerships and innovative training programs. Speaking at the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81), Deputy Minister for Education Dr. Clement Abas Apaak invited global organizations to support Ghana’s efforts in enhancing foundational learning, emphasizing that such investments are critical for long-term success and cost savings. This call for collaboration aligns with the recent success of a blended play-based learning initiative, where 2,565 teachers successfully completed a certification program designed to integrate play-based methods into the revised basic school curriculum. The teacher training program, a collaboration between Right To Play Ghana and the National Teaching Council (NTC), initially enrolled 4,455 educators across several districts. The initiative aims to equip teachers with the necessary skills to deliver the national curriculum more effectively, moving away from traditional rote learning toward more engaging, student-centered methods. Kwabena Gao of Right To Play and Dr. Issahaque Munawaru of the Ghana Education Service (GES) emphasized that such partnerships are vital for maintaining high standards of teacher professionalism and ensuring that classroom practices translate into improved learning outcomes for students. Beyond the classroom, Ghana is also addressing critical gaps in its rural advisory and extension services to ensure equitable knowledge sharing across the agricultural sector. At a recent multistakeholder forum in Koforidua organized by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) and CABI, officials addressed a significant gender disparity in access to advisory information. Despite women making up 52 percent of the agricultural workforce, they currently receive only 15 to 30 percent of available extension services. This forum, held from September 23 to 25, 2026, focused on the Gender and Rural Advisory Services (GRAS) initiative, seeking to leverage Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) to bridge this gap. These multi-sectoral initiatives reflect a broader national strategy to modernize service delivery through training, technology, and inclusive policy implementation. While the Ministry of Education focuses on foundational play-based learning to secure the country’s academic future, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture is working to integrate gender considerations into its outreach planning. Stakeholders across both sectors, including Peter Aboagye of WIAD and various education leaders, stressed that institutional commitment and ongoing follow-up are essential for these programs to move beyond policy and result in tangible improvements in the professional and economic lives of all Ghanaians.

A woman in a beige blazer and glasses presents a framed 'Citation of Honour' to another woman in a sparkly purple dress. The award is from the Bono Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) and is being presented to the Bank of Ghana in recognition of their support for media development and financial literacy workshops.
education|

Bank of Ghana Director Bernard Ato Otabil Urges Media to Uphold Ethical Standards and Integrity

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has issued a strong call to the Ghanaian media to prioritize ethics and integrity in their reporting, characterizing these values as the bedrock of public trust and national democracy. Speaking at the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) awards ceremony in Sunyani, Mr. Bernard Ato Otabil, the Director of Communications at the central bank, emphasized that the media’s role is more critical than ever in an era increasingly defined by the rapid spread of misinformation. He urged practitioners to remain steadfast in their commitment to accuracy and fairness, ensuring that the public receives reliable information. Mr. Otabil described journalists as the "custodians of truth," tasking them with the responsibility of safeguarding the narrative against distortion. He highlighted that high ethical standards are not merely professional requirements but are foundational to maintaining the credibility of the press. By adhering to principles of objectivity and independence, the media can effectively serve as a watchdog for society, facilitating transparent governance and fostering an informed citizenry. The BoG Director underscored that without integrity, the media’s influence on societal transformation would be significantly diminished. To further support these standards, the Bank of Ghana has deepened its partnership with the GJA through the establishment of the Governor’s Economic and Financial Story of the Year award. This initiative is designed to incentivize and celebrate excellence in economic reporting, encouraging journalists to delve deeper into complex financial issues with precision and clarity. Mr. Otabil noted that accurate economic reporting is essential for public understanding of the nation’s fiscal health and for building confidence in the financial sector, which is a primary concern for the central bank. The event also served as a platform to acknowledge the collaborative efforts of local stakeholders in promoting professional journalism. Mrs. Regina Benneh Siaw expressed appreciation for the various sponsors whose support made the awards ceremony possible, reflecting a broad community commitment to the development of the media industry. As the media landscape continues to evolve, the BoG’s call for a return to core journalistic values serves as a reminder that the health of Ghana’s democracy and its economic stability are inextricably linked to the quality and integrity of information disseminated to the public.

A man in a formal suit presents a certificate to a woman wearing a high-visibility yellow and navy blue work uniform during an official Ghana Energy Commission event. They are shaking hands and smiling in front of commission banners and a flower arrangement.
education|

Ghana Expands Skills Training: Bright SHS Joins Coders Programme as 141 Electricians Gain Certification

In a concerted effort to enhance professional standards and digital literacy across the country, Ghana has seen a wave of educational milestones ranging from high school coding initiatives to professional certifications for artisans. Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George recently announced that Bright Senior High School in Kukurantumi, Eastern Region, will become a beneficiary of the government’s ambitious One Million Coders Programme. The selection follows the school’s standout performance in the National Science and Maths Quiz. Under a forthcoming agreement, the government will establish a dedicated ICT centre at the school and provide laptops for students, facilitating a 10-to-12-week training period aimed at equipping the youth for a technology-driven global economy. Simultaneously, the Energy Commission has bolstered the nation’s technical workforce by graduating 141 electricians from its Electrical Wiring Certification programme in the Western Region. During the ceremony, commission officials including Mr. Anthony Bleboo and Dr. Emmanuel Payne emphasized the critical importance of professionalism and the use of high-quality materials to ensure public safety. Graduates were sternly cautioned against lending their certificates to unqualified practitioners. The Commission also highlighted the evolving nature of the energy sector, noting that a draft policy for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure is being prepared for Parliament, and encouraged practitioners to commit to lifelong learning in fields like solar energy. Complementing these technical and vocational advancements, the Ablekuma North Municipal Assembly has focused on social education through a collaboration with the AAK Marriage Foundation. The partnership recently hosted a workshop for marriage counsellors themed “Get married right – For all people…Everywhere.” The training covered essential topics such as pre-marital counselling, conflict management, and the legalities of marriage registration. Facilitators emphasized that proper legal registration is vital for protecting the rights of women and children, reinforcing the assembly's commitment to building stable, healthy families as a foundation for national development. Together, these diverse initiatives—from high-end digital literacy to artisanal certification and social welfare training—reflect a holistic national strategy to empower Ghanaians at every level of society. By bridge the gap between classroom theory and industry standards, the government and its partners aim to foster a culture of excellence and safety. As the One Million Coders Programme seeks to enroll one million citizens over the next four years and the Energy Commission adapts to green technologies, Ghana continues to position its human capital to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

Ghana Bolsters Youth Empowerment through Digital Innovation, Education Funding, and Gender-Focused Leadership
education|

Ghana Bolsters Youth Empowerment through Digital Innovation, Education Funding, and Gender-Focused Leadership

The Ghanaian government and various international partners have intensified efforts to equip the nation’s youth with the skills necessary to navigate a competitive global and continental market. Speaking at the Pan-African AI & Innovation Summit 2026 in Accra, the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, emphasized the government’s commitment to building a borderless African talent ecosystem. Key to this vision is the introduction of the National Youth Tracker Platform and the YouthXplore App, which utilize data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to connect young Ghanaians with employment pathways and skill-building opportunities. Minister Opare Addo underscored the importance of aligning educational curricula with market demands to ensure that graduates are prepared for the digital economy under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework. Complementing this national digital drive, CAMFED Ghana has focused its efforts on removing barriers for young women in higher education. During the 2026 Tertiary Convening orientation at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Fairuza Abdul-Rahman Safian, Executive Director of CAMFED Ghana, addressed 791 young women receiving support through the CAMFED Tertiary Scholarship Programme. Safian urged the scholars to defy societal stereotypes and cultivate leadership and entrepreneurship skills alongside their academic pursuits. This call for targeted empowerment was echoed by Dr. Wilfred Ochan, UNFPA Country Representative, who advocated for market-linked skills training for vulnerable women. Speaking at The Image of a Woman Conference, Dr. Ochan urged stakeholders to ensure that vocational training translates into sustainable livelihoods by fostering market access for products made by women. The importance of inclusive education was further highlighted by a successful community-driven campaign for 17-year-old Priscilla Nana Ama Samson, a student living with cerebral palsy. Following a public appeal spearheaded by JoyNews, Ghanaians raised approximately GH¢40,000 to cover her senior high school expenses. Priscilla, who had previously feared that financial constraints would end her academic journey, has now resumed her classes. Their family expressed profound gratitude for the assistance, which marks a significant victory for inclusive education in Ghana by relieving the family of a heavy financial burden and allowing Priscilla to learn alongside her peers. These combined efforts—ranging from high-level digital policy and international scholarship programs to grassroots community mobilization—illustrate a multi-faceted approach to education and youth development in Ghana. By integrating AI-driven employment tools, dismantling gender stereotypes, and providing direct financial support for vulnerable students, stakeholders are working to create a more resilient and equitable educational landscape. The overarching focus remains on ensuring that every Ghanaian youth, regardless of gender or physical ability, has a clear pathway to contribute to the nation’s economic transformation.

SeedSpark Foundation and Mining Sector Partners Bolster Educational Support for Rural and Special Schools
education|

SeedSpark Foundation and Mining Sector Partners Bolster Educational Support for Rural and Special Schools

A wave of philanthropic and corporate social responsibility initiatives is providing a critical lifeline to students across Ghana’s rural farming and mining communities. Leading these efforts, the SeedSpark Foundation, in partnership with Legacy Impact and the OhenebaCare Foundation, recently launched the 2026 ‘Seeds of Hope’ Community Outreach in the Kintampo South District. The campaign reached over 550 pupils in the farming communities of Anokyekrom and Abom Komkomba, providing them with essential learning materials including textbooks, exercise books, stationery, and school bags. By targeting areas central to Ghana’s food production that often lack basic educational infrastructure, the initiative aims to ensure that a child’s geographic location does not dictate their access to quality education. In addition to educational materials, the ‘Seeds of Hope’ campaign integrated community welfare by providing medical screenings for approximately 160 residents. SeedSpark Executive Director Henry Ekow Yawson emphasized that supporting these communities is a strategic investment in the nation's future, as it alleviates the burdens on families who drive the agricultural sector. Teachers in the district noted that the lack of basic resources has long been a significant barrier to effective lesson delivery, and the new supplies are expected to immediately enhance the learning environment for students from Kindergarten through Junior High School. Parallel efforts are also being spearheaded by the mining sector to foster development in host communities. In the Western North Region, global mining services provider Epiroc donated school supplies to the Kwanikrom and Lawerkrom communities through its ‘Back-to-School’ initiative. This program, conducted in collaboration with Asante Gold Chirano’s ‘My First Day at School’ event, highlights a growing trend of mining firms prioritizing local education. Rhoda Aboagye, a Human Resources Business Partner at Epiroc, urged other businesses in mining regions to deepen their support for local schools, arguing that educational investment is the most effective way to ensure long-term community growth and self-reliance. The push for educational equity extends to specialized institutions that cater to vulnerable populations. The Ghana Chamber of Mines recently expanded its corporate social investment by supporting the Akropong School for the Blind and the Demonstration School for the Deaf in the Eastern Region. The Chamber donated 61 bags of rice to support student welfare, while school representatives used the occasion to call for further assistance with infrastructure, specifically citing the need for a dedicated assembly hall. Christopher Opoku Nyarko of the Chamber reaffirmed the industry's commitment to responsible mining, which includes a mandate to support institutions that provide specialized care and education for students with disabilities. These collective interventions by NGOs and the private sector underscore a critical shift toward collaborative development in Ghana’s education sector. While the donations of books, food, and medical services provide immediate relief, the participating organizations have pledged to conduct follow-up visits and expand their reach. This integrated approach—combining material support with health services and infrastructure advocacy—is becoming a model for addressing the systemic resource gaps that persist in rural and marginalized educational settings across the country.

A newly constructed school building with grey plastered walls and a dark corrugated roof under a clear sky. A person in dark attire stands near a window with brown security bars, and the surrounding area shows fresh soil and green vegetation.
education|

President Mahama's Administration and Local Leaders Drive Major Education Infrastructure Projects Across Ghana

Educational infrastructure across Ghana is receiving a significant boost through a combination of national funding and local leadership initiatives. In Kintampo North, work is rapidly advancing on a comprehensive facility at the Gurumaline Islamic School, funded by the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund). This project, which includes a six-unit classroom block and an ultramodern kindergarten block, is part of a broader educational agenda under the administration of President John Mahama. Municipal Chief Executive Isaac Donkor and Bono East Regional Minister Francis Owusu Antwi have highlighted these developments as vital steps in modernizing the nation's learning environments and expanding access to quality basic education. The project at Gurumaline is particularly notable for its focus on sanitation and student welfare. It features a 12-seater toilet facility equipped with a water closet system powered by a dedicated borehole. Kintampo North Member of Parliament, Joseph Kwame Kumah, who lobbied extensively for the project, emphasized that these facilities are essential for maintaining attendance, particularly for girls who previously lacked private and hygienic spaces during their menstrual cycles. Similar infrastructure breakthroughs are occurring at the Atebubu College of Education (ATECOE). Long plagued by overcrowding that forced classes to run from 6 am to 9 pm, the college is now benefiting from GETFund-supported construction of new lecture halls and accommodation, which is expected to normalize the academic schedule and increase student enrollment capacity. Parallel to these large-scale government projects, local traditional and political leaders are taking direct action to solve immediate classroom crises. In the Upper East Region, Naba Godwin Asambilla Apabum III, the Divisional Chief of Binaba, recently donated 104 dual desks to the Binaba Primary School to end a furniture shortage that saw students sitting on the floor. Funded by the proceeds of the ZIN-TASS Young Festival, the donation highlights the community's commitment to its own development. Meanwhile, in the Chiana-Paga Constituency, MP Nikyema Billa Alamzy has successfully renovated and handed over the Katiu Primary School to the Ghana Education Service. This renovation, which also extended to Tedam JHS ‘A’ and Kandiga Primary School, has been praised by district officials for creating safer and more conducive learning environments. These collective efforts underscore a multifaceted approach to education in Ghana, where central government funding via GETFund is complemented by the proactive lobbying of MPs and the philanthropy of traditional rulers. By addressing both high-level infrastructure needs—like those at ATECOE—and basic classroom necessities—like desks in Binaba—these initiatives aim to provide a more equitable and efficient educational system. As these projects reach completion, the focus shifts toward maintenance and the sustainable management of these facilities to ensure they serve future generations of Ghanaian students effectively, reflecting a nationwide commitment to the future of the youth.

African leaders push for higher education transformation in Accra
education|

Ghana’s Higher Education Sector Navigates Governance Disputes, Leadership Transitions, and Curriculum Reforms

Ghana’s higher education landscape is currently defined by a series of significant leadership transitions and governance challenges, most notably at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). The university's Governing Council has sparked widespread controversy by abolishing the long-standing practice of faculty electing their own Deans and Pro-Vice-Chancellors, opting instead for a system of direct appointments. This move, which follows the recent investiture of a new Vice-Chancellor, has been met with fierce resistance from major staff unions including UTAG, GAUA, and TEWU-TUC. Critics argue that shifting power from the academic community to the central administration undermines democratic governance and risks repeating institutional crises, such as the unrest witnessed in October 2018. Unions are calling for immediate dialogue to restore trust and maintain the values of academic participation. While KNUST faces internal friction, Bolgatanga Technical University has seen a resolution to its own leadership crisis through the judicial system. The High Court in Bolgatanga recently ruled that the removal of Professor Samuel Erasmus Alnaa as Vice-Chancellor was illegal, citing a lack of quorum during the Governing Council meeting that terminated his appointment. The court also invalidated the formation of the Special Investigative Committee involved in the process, resulting in the reinstatement of Prof. Alnaa and two other senior officers. This ruling underscores the critical importance of adhering to procedural and legal frameworks in the management of public universities. In the private and specialized sectors, institutions are focusing on expansion and modernization. Frank B. Adu Jnr has been invested as the first Chancellor of the African University of Communications and Business (AUCB), following the institution's receipt of a presidential charter in December 2024. His five-point vision emphasizes digital transformation and industry-embedded education to prepare graduates for a technology-driven global economy. Similarly, Regentropfen University College (RUC) is looking toward the future, with President Rev. Dr. Moses Asaah Awinongya refuting false claims regarding the accreditation of its health programs. Dr. Awinongya clarified that the university currently offers 11 accredited programs and plans to establish a medical school within the next decade. Broader educational reforms are also being championed by prominent national voices and international partners. At the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Chancellor Dr. Sam Esson Jonah has called for the integration of Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s philosophies into the national curriculum, arguing that students should understand Nkrumah’s ideas on Pan-Africanism beyond mere monuments. Simultaneously, the Mastercard Foundation recently hosted the Higher Education Transformation Convening in Accra, bringing together African leaders to align curricula with industry needs. These initiatives, combined with new partnerships like the one between UCC’s new Vice-Chancellor, Professor Denis Worlanyo Aheto, and Prudential Bank, signal a concerted effort to enhance the sustainability and practical relevance of Ghanaian higher education.

GNAT, NAGRAT, and PRETAG Launch Nationwide Strike Over Unpaid Arrears and Service Conditions
education|

GNAT, NAGRAT, and PRETAG Launch Nationwide Strike Over Unpaid Arrears and Service Conditions

Three of Ghana’s major pre-tertiary teacher unions—the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Pre-Tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana (PRETAG)—have declared an immediate nationwide strike as of Friday, September 25, 2026. The industrial action stems from the government’s failure to meet a September 24 deadline for paying promotion arrears to approximately 80,000 teachers. Union leaders, including PRETAG President King Ali Awudu, announced the decision following a press briefing where they emphasized that previous negotiations had yielded no results, leaving them no choice but to withdraw their services until their demands are met. The core grievances behind the strike involve stalled negotiations for a new Collective Agreement, which have been delayed since June, and the non-payment of the 20% Deprived Area Allowance established in a 2024 agreement. Teachers have also rejected a proposed 10% increase in the digital allowance, citing it as insufficient. The Minority in Parliament has voiced strong support for the teachers, urging President John Mahama’s government to address these concerns immediately to prevent further decline in education quality. The Minority specifically linked the ongoing labor unrest and poor teacher morale to the disappointing performance of students in the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). In an effort to mitigate the strike's impact, the Ministry of Education has scheduled an emergency meeting for Monday, September 28, 2026. Ministry spokesperson Hasmin Mohammed appealed to the unions to return to the classroom, highlighting the importance of maintaining the current academic calendar, which has only recently returned to a traditional September start for the first time in years. The upcoming meeting is expected to include representatives from the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) and other stakeholders to find a resolution to the promotion placement and arrears issues that have plagued the sector. Adding to the sector's tensions, GNAT regional executives in the Northern Region have expressed disappointment at the Ghana Education Service (GES) for its silence regarding the death of Abu Seidu, a teacher in Gindabour who died after an encounter with police. The union has demanded a formal statement of condolence and a condemnation of any unlawful conduct. As the nationwide strike begins, the focus shifts to the Monday negotiations; however, the unions have indicated that they will remain on strike until concrete steps are taken to settle the outstanding financial commitments and improve general conditions of service.

Dr Wilfred Orchan — UNFPA Country Representative
education|

UNFPA, ATDP, and Compassion International Expand Educational and Empowerment Initiatives Across Ghana

Ghana’s educational and youth development landscape is experiencing a surge in multi-sectoral initiatives aimed at bridging the gap between classroom learning and economic self-sufficiency. From the inauguration of specialized learning centers in Accra to national calls for market-aligned vocational training, stakeholders are increasingly focusing on holistic growth for the youth. Central to these efforts are the opening of the new Olympiad Educentre – Annex in Adjiringanor and high-level advocacy for women's empowerment by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), reflecting a broader commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs. The Academic Talent Development Program (ATDP) has significantly expanded its footprint with the opening of the Olympiad Educentre – Annex. This new facility is designed to move beyond traditional learning spaces, offering dedicated tracks for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) competitions, Olympiad training, and comprehensive exam preparation. During the launch event, the center celebrated outstanding student achievements in regional competitions, emphasizing a mission to foster innovation and creativity among young learners. The facility is now open for registration, inviting families to explore its diverse academic and co-curricular offerings. Parallel to infrastructure expansion, the UNFPA is advocating for a strategic shift in vocational education for vulnerable young women. Speaking at "The Image of a Woman Conference" in Accra, UNFPA Country Representative Dr. Wilfred Ochan emphasized that skills training must be inextricably linked to market demands to ensure sustainable livelihoods. Dr. Ochan urged government and civil society stakeholders to move beyond basic training by fostering market access for products created by these women. The conference also featured the launch of the book 'The Image of a Woman' by Prophetess Aku Xornam Adzraku-Kevi, which addresses female empowerment and the navigation of societal challenges. Community-based interventions also continue to play a critical role, as evidenced by the recent commendation of Compassion International Ghana (CIGH) for its impact in Krobo communities. Edward Nyamekye, CIGH’s Senior Manager of Partnership, highlighted the success of the Somanya cluster of partner churches, which operates 15 child development centers. These centers are instrumental in helping thousands of beneficiaries escape poverty through integrated support systems. By combining local church leadership with health and educational resources, these programs provide a scalable model for community resilience and youth development across Ghana. These diverse initiatives—ranging from elite academic training to grassroots poverty alleviation—underscore a comprehensive approach to education in Ghana. The synergy between specialized STEM education, market-linked vocational training, and community-driven child development is essential for creating an inclusive economy. As these programs continue to evolve, the focus remains on ensuring that every Ghanaian child and young woman has a viable pathway to academic excellence and economic independence.

Albert Ampofo Krampah (arrowed), facilitator from the AAK Marriage Foundation, addressing the participants
education|

UK Policy Change Impacts Ghanaian Educators While Local Initiatives Strengthen Media and Family Counseling Standards

The international professional landscape for Ghanaian educators is set to undergo a significant shift following a decision by the United Kingdom to revise its Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) eligibility. Teachers trained in Ghana, along with those from Nigeria and India, have been removed from the list of countries eligible to use the direct application service for QTS in England. This new regulation, scheduled to take effect on September 9, 2026, marks a major change in the pathway for Ghanaian teachers seeking to practice their profession in the British education system, necessitating a closer look at international certification standards and labor mobility. While international pathways face new restrictions, local capacity-building efforts within Ghana are intensifying, particularly in the media sector. DW Akademie recently organized a five-day workshop aimed at enhancing the skills of journalists and media practitioners in gender-sensitive reporting. Supported by the European Union, the initiative focused on promoting gender equality through responsible journalism and the elimination of harmful stereotypes. Cecil Ato Kwamena Dadzie, project manager for DW’s AMIR Programme, emphasized that the media plays a pivotal role in shaping public perceptions and driving social justice by amplifying marginalized voices and ensuring inclusive narratives. Parallel to these media-focused efforts, the Ablekuma North Municipal Assembly has taken steps to improve social welfare through a specialized training workshop for marriage counselors. In collaboration with the AAK Marriage Foundation, the workshop—themed "Get married right – For all people…Everywhere"—provided counselors with modern techniques in pre-marital guidance, communication, and conflict management. Facilitator Albert Ampofo Krampah highlighted the critical importance of legal marriage registration as a means to protect the rights of women and children, while local officials pledged continued support for initiatives that stabilize family units. Together, these developments highlight a broader trend of professionalization and specialized training across different sectors in Ghana. From the impact of international policy changes on teachers to the domestic focus on social welfare and media ethics, there is an increasing emphasis on formalizing qualifications and enhancing the quality of service delivery. As the 2026 deadline for the UK’s teacher certification change approaches, the focus remains on ensuring Ghanaian professionals are equipped with the skills and credentials necessary to navigate both local and global standards.

A section of the students at the meeting
education|

Bright SHS Joins National Coders Programme as GCIF Launches Nationwide Cybersecurity Campaign

Ghana's education sector is undergoing a significant digital transformation as the government and industry stakeholders launch multi-faceted initiatives aimed at equipping students with coding and cybersecurity skills. At the forefront of these efforts is the inclusion of Bright Senior High School in the national "One Million Coders Programme" and a concurrent nationwide cybersecurity awareness campaign led by the Ghana Cybersecurity Industry Forum (GCIF). These programs reflect a coordinated push to prepare the youth for the evolving digital economy and secure the nation's technological infrastructure. Bright Senior High School, located in Kukurantumi in the Eastern Region, was selected for the government's ambitious One Million Coders Programme following its impressive performance in the National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ). Communication Minister Samuel Nartey George announced that an agreement will be signed to establish a dedicated ICT centre at the school and provide laptops for students. This 10-to-12-week training initiative is part of a broader strategy to enroll and train one million Ghanaians in digital skills over the next four years. Dr. Bright Amponsah, President of the school, celebrated the selection as a milestone achievement for private educational institutions in Ghana. Complementing the technical training at individual schools, the Ghana Cybersecurity Industry Forum (GCIF) is expanding its outreach through a comprehensive awareness campaign scheduled to run from October to December 2026. This initiative moves beyond traditional training by engaging schools, local communities, and the entertainment industry. A key highlight is the "Cyber Fest" event in November, which will utilize music and entertainment to make cybersecurity education more engaging for younger audiences. Furthermore, GCIF is collaborating with the Bank of Ghana to host workshops on virtual assets, specifically addressing concerns related to cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. These combined initiatives signal a robust commitment to closing the digital divide and building a secure professional pipeline for Ghana’s digital security sector. By integrating practical coding skills with critical cybersecurity awareness, stakeholders aim to foster a tech-savvy generation capable of navigating both the opportunities and risks of the global digital landscape. As community roadshows begin and ICT infrastructure expands to schools like Bright SHS, the emphasis remains on continuous education to keep pace with rapid technological advancements.

Kwabena Gao (left), Education Specialist, Right to Play, in a cheerful moood with invited dignitaries and participants after the meeting. Picture: BENEDICT OBUOBI
education|

Ghana’s Education Sector Eyes Reform Through Play-Based Learning and Nkrumah’s Philosophical Legacy

Ghana’s educational landscape is currently undergoing a significant transformation as stakeholders push for both pedagogical innovation and a more culturally grounded curriculum. Recent initiatives led by the National Teaching Council (NTC) and academic leaders like Sir Sam Jonah highlight a dual focus: equipping teachers with modern, play-based instructional skills and ensuring students engage deeply with the philosophical legacy of Ghana’s founding father, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. These efforts aim to move beyond traditional rote learning toward a more interactive and identity-conscious educational experience for the next generation. Central to this pedagogical shift is a blended play-based learning program spearheaded by Right to Play Ghana in collaboration with the NTC. The initiative seeks to bridge the gap between theoretical training and actual classroom practice by equipping educators with the tools to deliver the national curriculum more effectively. Of the 4,455 teachers who enrolled in the program across various districts, 2,565 have successfully completed their certification. Leaders such as Kwabena Gao of Right to Play Ghana and Dr. Issahaque Munawaru from the Ghana Education Service (GES) have emphasized that the ultimate success of the curriculum depends on ongoing professional development and follow-up support to ensure these techniques translate into improved student engagement. While the NTC focuses on instructional methods, the Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Sir Sam Jonah, is championing a reform of curriculum content to include the intellectual heritage of the nation. Speaking at the 15th Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Lectures, Dr. Jonah urged the integration of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah’s ideas on African unity and self-determination into the national school system. He observed that many students currently recognize the first president only through physical monuments rather than his substantive philosophies. By teaching Nkrumah’s views on Pan-Africanism and constitutionalism, Dr. Jonah believes Ghana can better prepare its youth to navigate contemporary challenges with a sense of historical purpose and African agency. These developments reflect a broader consensus that the future of Ghanaian education lies in a balance of technical teaching proficiency and historical relevance. As the NTC and organizations like Right to Play continue to monitor the impact of play-based learning in schools, academic institutions like UCC are positioning themselves to lead the intellectual integration of national history. Together, these initiatives signal a move toward a more holistic educational framework that prioritizes teacher professionalism, student-centered learning, and a deep-seated appreciation for the nation's founding principles.