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.

education|

Kosmos Innovation Centre Propels Youth Agribusinesses as 2026 AgriTech Challenge Pro Completes Initial Pitching Milestone

The 2026 Kosmos Innovation Centre (KIC) AgriTech Challenge Pro has reached a significant milestone with the successful completion of its initial pitching phase. This program, which focuses on identifying and nurturing young entrepreneurs, aims to address critical challenges within Ghana's agricultural and food value chains by transforming innovative ideas into sustainable, market-ready agribusinesses. Through this initiative, KIC is fostering a new generation of agricultural leaders equipped to drive economic growth and food security across the country. Participating startups, including Food Resilience Ltd, Kebab Masters, and SheaTech Innovations, have progressed through a rigorous curriculum of structured training, coaching, and professional mentorship. This year's program places a heightened emphasis on product development and food innovation, ensuring that the solutions presented are not only creative but also technically sound and commercially viable. These young innovators are being prepared to navigate the complexities of the modern market, moving from conceptual stages to operational realities. Benjamin Gyan-Kesse, the Executive Director of KIC, underscored the organization's dedication to supporting young innovators as they navigate the hurdles of building sustainable enterprises. This initiative is a core component of the Mastercard Foundation's Initiative for Youth in Agricultural Transformation (IYAT). By providing a robust support system, the collaboration aims to promote job creation and modernize the agricultural sector, ensuring that the youth are at the forefront of Ghana's agricultural evolution. As these startups move forward from the first pitching milestone, the focus remains on refining their business models and scaling their impact. The continued mentorship and resource allocation provided by KIC and its partners are expected to result in a suite of new businesses that can effectively tackle local agricultural issues. This progression highlights the vital role of specialized training and innovation hubs in securing the future of Ghana's agribusiness landscape.

Dr (Sir) Sam Esson Jonah (right), the Chancellor of UCC, presenting certificate of honour to Kwesi Pratt Jr. (3rd from right). With them include Marian Baaba Pratt (2nd from right), wife of the awardee and some UCC management
education|

University of Cape Coast Confers Honorary Doctorate on Veteran Journalist Kwesi Pratt Jnr.

The University of Cape Coast (UCC) has formally recognized the lifelong contributions of veteran journalist and activist Kwesi Pratt Jnr. by conferring upon him an honorary Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.) degree. The special ceremony, which coincided with the 15th Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Lectures, celebrated Pratt’s unwavering commitment to journalism, the advancement of democracy, and the cause of African emancipation. UCC Chancellor Dr. Sam Esson Jonah presented the honor, emphasizing Pratt’s role as a stalwart of independent media and a champion of civic engagement in Ghana. In his remarks, Dr. Sam Esson Jonah highlighted the significant impact Pratt has had on public discourse, noting that his work has consistently challenged the status quo and promoted accountability. The university acknowledged that Pratt's career represents a dedicated struggle for social justice and the realization of Pan-African ideals. The alignment of the award ceremony with the memorial lectures for Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah served to underscore the intellectual and ideological connection between Pratt's professional life and the legacy of Ghana's first president. Accepting the honor, Dr. Kwesi Pratt Jnr. reflected on his long-standing association with the University of Cape Coast, which began as far back as 1976. He credited Kwame Nkrumah as the primary influence on his work and his commitment to the broader "African project," urging the audience to maintain courage in their civic responsibilities. Pratt emphasized the importance of independent journalism as a tool for liberation and unity, stating that the struggle for African emancipation remains as relevant today as it was during the era of decolonization. The ceremony concluded with Pratt expressing profound gratitude to the university and pledging his ongoing support for its institutional development. Describing UCC as a pivotal force in shaping national discourse, he reaffirmed his dedication to the values that earned him the doctorate. This recognition serves as a significant milestone in Pratt’s career and highlights the University of Cape Coast’s commitment to honoring individuals who have shaped the nation’s socio-political landscape through consistent and principled advocacy.

Vicentia Appiah Antwi and Suzzy Owusu Arrested in Accra for GH"22,000 CSSPS Placement Fraud
education|

Vicentia Appiah Antwi and Suzzy Owusu Arrested in Accra for GH"22,000 CSSPS Placement Fraud

Ghanaian police in Accra have arrested two suspects, Vicentia Appiah Antwi, 24, and Suzzy Owusu, 18, for their alleged involvement in a fraudulent scheme targeting the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS). The duo is accused of soliciting and accepting bribes from Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) graduates and their families under the pretense of securing admissions into prestigious senior high schools. According to investigators, the suspects reportedly charged victims amounts ranging between GH"9,500 and GH"22,000 per placement. The fraudulent activities were brought to light after a set of twin sisters, who were among the victims, reported the extortion attempt to the Ministry of Education. The candidates provided evidence of the bribery demands, prompting a swift intervention by a Ministry team and law enforcement officials. While the two primary suspects are currently in custody and have been granted police enquiry bail, the investigation has expanded to include several named accomplices. These include a Kumasi-based medical doctor, Nana Yaw Boateng, and another individual identified as Alex Asumani, also known as Lexus. The Ministry of Education has reacted to the incident by reiterating that the school placement process through the CSSPS is entirely free of charge. Officials have urged parents, guardians, and students to remain vigilant and report any individuals demanding payment for school admissions. This warning comes at a critical time as the government works to manage the massive influx of students into the secondary education system; out of 604,567 candidates who qualified for placement this cycle, 527,932 have already been successfully placed. As investigations continue, the police are working to track down the remaining suspects to dismantle the wider network involved in educational fraud. The Ministry has emphasized its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the CSSPS, ensuring that school admissions are based on merit and system protocols rather than financial influence. This case serves as a stark reminder of the legal consequences facing those who attempt to exploit the high demand for quality secondary education in Ghana.

Kwaku Antwi-Boasiako Shares Inspiring Journey of Overcoming Poverty Through Education
education|

Kwaku Antwi-Boasiako Shares Inspiring Journey of Overcoming Poverty Through Education

Kwaku Antwi-Boasiako, in a poignant reflection on the transformative power of learning, has shared his personal journey from a background of significant financial hardship to achieving professional stability. In a message directed at students entering Senior High School (SHS), particularly a recipient named Angel, Antwi-Boasiako emphasizes that while the path to academic success is often fraught with obstacles, education remains the most reliable vehicle for breaking the cycle of poverty and improving one’s life circumstances. His story serves as a testament to the fact that personal background does not determine one's ultimate destination. Recounting his early years, Antwi-Boasiako revealed that his educational journey was nearly derailed at its onset. Due to extreme financial constraints, he missed the entire first term of his secondary school education, a setback that made catching up with his peers exceptionally difficult. Beyond the financial burden, he faced social adversity, including unkind teachers and peers who highlighted his struggles. However, he credits his perseverance and the unexpected support from more affluent classmates for helping him maintain his focus during those formative years, proving that peer support can be invaluable in navigating academic stress. The challenges continued into his higher education, where Antwi-Boasiako faced periods of hunger while attending university. His determination eventually led him to the United Kingdom to pursue an MBA, a feat he accomplished by working multiple jobs, including night shifts, to fund his studies. These experiences, though grueling, reinforced his belief that dedication to one's studies is essential for long-term success. He notes that while he may not be wealthy in a traditional sense, the stability and the ability to support his family today are the direct results of his academic persistence and hard work. In his concluding advice to the next generation of students, Antwi-Boasiako urges them to remain disciplined and disregard distractions that could derail their progress. He maintains that the sacrifices made during school years are small compared to the lifelong benefits of a solid education. By sharing his story, he aims to inspire students from humble backgrounds to recognize their potential and view education not just as a requirement, but as the master key to a better and more secure future for themselves and their families.

GES warns schools against unauthorised charges for trunks, uniforms, cutlasses
education|

GES Warns SHS Heads Over Unauthorized Fees and Student Rejection Due to Storage Containers

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a stern warning to the heads of Senior High and Technical Schools across the country, mandating an immediate end to unauthorized charges and the discriminatory treatment of students. In a directive signed by Deputy Director-General Prof. Smile Dzisi on September 18, 2023, the service emphasized that no student should be denied admission or accommodation based on the specific type of storage container they bring to school, nor should parents be forced to pay unapproved fees for school supplies. The GES directive specifically targets illegal fees being levied on parents for items such as uniforms, metal trunks, and cutlasses. Prof. Dzisi's communication makes it clear that such practices are a violation of approved government guidelines and must cease with immediate effect. School heads found to be imposing these extra-budgetary requirements on families risk facing severe administrative sanctions, as the service seeks to maintain the accessibility and fairness of the public education system. Beyond financial charges, the service also addressed reports of schools turning away students who arrive with certain types of personal storage, such as wooden chop boxes instead of metal trunks. The GES has now mandated that schools must accommodate all admitted students fairly, regardless of whether they possess specific brands or styles of containers. This move is designed to alleviate the undue financial burden often placed on parents during the admission process and to prevent any form of discrimination against students from less privileged backgrounds. To ensure strict compliance, Regional Directors of Education have been instructed to communicate these directives to all relevant institutions within their jurisdictions. The GES has stated that any reported violations will be investigated and dealt with according to existing regulations. This policy enforcement serves as a broader effort to streamline the admission process and protect parents from exploitation during the transition of students into second-cycle institutions.

Prof. Eric Nyarko Sampson (middle), Vice-Chancellor of UESD, and Mark Aboujaoude, the representative of Maleka Farm Limited, exchanging the signed document
education|

University of Environment and Sustainable Development and MALEKA Farms Launch Aquaculture Excellence Scholarship

The University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD), based in Somanya, has officially partnered with MALEKA Farms to launch the MALEKA Farms Excellence Scholarship for Aquaculture Students (MESAS). This landmark initiative is specifically designed to support students who demonstrate exceptional academic potential but face significant financial challenges. By focusing on the field of aquaculture, the program seeks to bolster Ghana's agricultural human resource capacity, ensuring that talented individuals are not excluded from higher education due to economic hardship. The scholarship package is designed to be comprehensive, covering approved academic user fees for the duration of the recipients' studies. To maintain high standards and transparency, the selection process will be managed by a specialized committee formed by the UESD Water Resources and Aquaculture Management Department. Prospective beneficiaries will be assessed through a rigorous process that evaluates academic performance, documented financial need, personal statements, and professional recommendation letters. This collaborative governance ensures that the scholarship recipients are well-aligned with the excellence-driven mission of MALEKA Farms and the university. Slated to begin in the 2026/2027 academic year, the MESAS program will initially run for five years, with the possibility of extension based on the program's success and available funding. This partnership highlights the growing importance of industry-academia collaborations in Ghana, providing a model for how private enterprises can contribute to sustainable development through education. By investing in these students, UESD and MALEKA Farms are not only supporting individual careers but are also nurturing the future leaders and innovators who will drive the growth and sustainability of the national aquaculture sector.

Dr Henry Benyah (left), Chairman of the occasion, and Dr Kwesi Enyan (right), Director of Operations at Rocksure International Ltd, unveiling the anniversary logo. Picture: ESTHER ADJORKOR ADJEI
education|

St John’s School Sekondi Launches GH¢6.5 Million Fundraiser for 75th Anniversary Infrastructure Project

St John’s School in Sekondi has officially commenced its 75th-anniversary celebrations with the launch of an ambitious GH¢6.5 million fundraising campaign. The initiative aims to significantly upgrade the institution’s infrastructure by constructing a new three-storey classroom block. This planned facility is set to house 15 modern classrooms and three specialized laboratories, marking a major milestone in the school's commitment to providing high-quality education and maintaining its legacy of excellence in the Western Region. The launch event, held under the theme "United in Purpose, Committed to Excellence," brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including dedicated alumni, corporate partners, and school officials. During the ceremony, speakers emphasized the school’s long-standing contribution to Ghana’s national development, noting its success in producing leaders across various sectors. The campaign seeks to harness the collective strength of the school's alumni and the broader community to ensure that the institution remains a premier center for academic and moral development. Reflecting on the school's journey over the past seven and a half decades, the headmaster highlighted its achievements in nurturing students with a strong sense of discipline and academic rigor. He noted that the new infrastructure project is not just about physical space but about enhancing the learning environment to meet contemporary educational standards. The call to action was directed at both the "Old Saints" (alumni) and corporate entities to contribute generously toward the GH¢6.5 million goal to ensure the project is completed in time for the peak of the anniversary festivities. As St John’s School enters this diamond jubilee year, the fundraising drive underscores the growing trend of alumni-led development in Ghanaian secondary education. By taking proactive steps to address infrastructural gaps, the school and its supporters are setting a precedent for sustainable institutional growth. The successful completion of the three-storey block will provide much-needed relief to existing facilities and ensure that future generations of students continue to benefit from the school's rich educational heritage.

education|

Kosmos Innovation Centre Launches 2026 AgriTech Challenge Pro to Empower Youth-Led Agricultural Startups

The 2026 Kosmos Innovation Centre (KIC) AgriTech Challenge Pro has officially reached a significant milestone as participating teams delivered their first round of pitches. This initiative, aimed at empowering young Ghanaian entrepreneurs, focuses on developing innovative solutions to address challenges across the country’s agricultural and food value chains. By providing a platform for creative problem-solving, the challenge seeks to modernize Ghana’s agricultural landscape and enhance food security through technology-driven entrepreneurship. Participating teams, including Food Resilience Ltd, Kebab Masters, and SheaTech Innovations, have already benefited from an intensive regimen of structured training, coaching, and professional mentorship. These resources are designed to guide the teams through the critical phases of product development and market readiness. The program operates under the umbrella of the Mastercard Foundation’s Initiative for Youth in Agricultural Transformation (IYAT), which emphasizes the practical transformation of raw ideas into viable, sustainable businesses that can generate meaningful employment for the youth. Executive Director of KIC, Benjamin Gyan-Kesse, emphasized the organization’s unwavering commitment to supporting young innovators as they navigate the complex journey of building sustainable enterprises. He noted that the AgriTech Challenge Pro is specifically structured to help these entrepreneurs overcome common barriers to entry in the agricultural sector, such as lack of technical expertise and limited access to market networks. By bridging these gaps, KIC is fostering a new generation of business leaders who are equipped to drive economic growth through agricultural innovation. As the 2026 competition progresses, the focus will shift toward scaling these nascent businesses and preparing them for long-term commercial success. The initiative reflects a broader strategy to reposition agriculture as a high-potential sector for young professionals, moving away from traditional methods toward a technology-centered approach. The success of these teams is expected to set a precedent for future innovations, ensuring that Ghana remains at the forefront of agricultural transformation in the sub-region.

Hon. Ralph Poku-Aduseis Starter-Pack Scholarship Transforms BECE Results In Bekwai
education|

Academic Excellence Surges in Ghana as Bekwai MP’s Scholarship Yields Record Results and 12-Year-Old Enrolls at UEW

Ghana’s educational landscape is witnessing significant milestones, ranging from localized interventions that have dramatically improved basic education outcomes in the Ashanti Region to the record-breaking enrollment of a child prodigy at the tertiary level. Recent reports highlight a sharp rise in academic performance in the Bekwai municipality driven by targeted scholarship support, while the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), has welcomed its youngest student in history following the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). These achievements highlight a dual success story of institutional support and individual brilliance within the nation's school system. In the Bekwai constituency, Member of Parliament Ralph Poku-Adusei’s School Starter-Pack Scholarship (SSPS) initiative has catalyzed a historic turnaround in Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) performance. Within just one year, the municipality’s best aggregate score improved from 18 to a remarkable 6, signaling the end of a six-year period of academic decline. The SSPS, which operates on a merit-based system, provides top-performing students with essential learning supplies and equipment to enhance their secondary school transition. By fostering collaboration between educational stakeholders and rewarding excellence, the initiative aims to create a sustainable support system that encourages students to strive for higher academic standards. Complementing these institutional gains is the individual success of 12-year-old Prince Daniel, who has officially become the youngest student ever admitted to the University of Education, Winneba. Daniel’s remarkable journey to higher education was secured after he excelled in the 2026 WASSCE, where he achieved high marks across the board, recording no grade lower than a C. His achievement, which garnered significant attention on social media platforms in September 2026, underscores the potential for early-age academic advancement when students are provided with the right environment to flourish. These developments reflect a broader trend of rising academic standards and the importance of both grassroots support and individual dedication. As the Bekwai MP looks toward expanding his scholarship scheme to include teacher recognition programs, the success of students like Prince Daniel serves as a testament to the evolving capabilities of the nation’s youth. Together, these stories emphasize the critical role that both policy-driven incentives and exceptional talent play in shaping the future of Ghana’s education sector, suggesting a promising trajectory for the next generation of scholars.

Rev. Mercy Motte-Kpegla and Methodist Men’s Fellowship Advocate for Child Safety and Institutional Development
education|

Rev. Mercy Motte-Kpegla and Methodist Men’s Fellowship Advocate for Child Safety and Institutional Development

Religious leaders in Ghana have issued urgent calls for enhanced social protection and institutional growth during major church conferences held in September 2026. Reverend Mrs. Mercy Motte-Kpegla, Coordinator of the Accra Presbytery Women’s Ministry of the Global Evangelical Church, used the 2026 Women’s Ministry Rally to demand greater vigilance against child exploitation. Simultaneously, the Association of Methodist Men’s Fellowship (AMMF) convened in Tema for its 14th Biennial Delegates Conference, reporting substantial financial growth and the advancement of key infrastructure projects aimed at community and church development. Addressing the Accra Presbytery Women’s Ministry Rally, Rev. Motte-Kpegla emphasized that Christian faith must be translated into active social advocacy, particularly in the realm of child safety. Citing a 2026 study that revealed alarming rates of sexual abuse among children aged 8 to 17, she urged women to move beyond the church walls to become proactive witnesses for Christ in their communities. She called for the establishment of robust child protection systems and urged families and religious organizations to report incidents of abuse rather than remaining silent, highlighting that creating a supportive environment for survivors is both a spiritual and social imperative. In a parallel development in Tema, the Methodist Men's Fellowship showcased the results of disciplined institutional management. Connexional Chairman Mr. Ebenezer Anowih reported a 28% increase in funds generated during the Men’s Day celebrations, bringing the total proceeds to GH¢964,670.77. These funds are slated to support strategic investments and capital projects, including the completion of the 40th Anniversary Pavilion. As the conference reviewed its by-laws and prepared for leadership transitions, Mr. Anowih emphasized the need for dedicated leadership to sustain the association's growth and its ability to contribute to national development. These gatherings reflect a broader trend of Ghanaian faith-based organizations integrating spiritual teaching with practical community leadership and social reform. By addressing both the physical safety of the most vulnerable and the financial sustainability of their institutions, these religious bodies are positioning themselves as critical stakeholders in the country's social fabric. The calls for multi-sectoral collaboration in child protection and the focus on transparent financial governance suggest a maturing approach to the role of the church in modern Ghanaian society.

UCC Secures $500m Housing Agreement as Infrastructure Expansion Reaches Rural Ashanti and Upper West Districts
education|

UCC Secures $500m Housing Agreement as Infrastructure Expansion Reaches Rural Ashanti and Upper West Districts

The University of Cape Coast (UCC) has reached a landmark agreement for a $500 million student accommodation project, highlighting a broader national effort to address educational infrastructure deficits. The university signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GSC Property Investment Limited to construct 28 dormitory blocks capable of housing 28,000 students. Operating under a build-operate-transfer model, the project will be managed by the private firm for 30 years before reverting to the university. This public-private partnership is designed to alleviate chronic housing shortages on campus, with the first phase of construction scheduled to begin in January 2027 following the completion of necessary assessments. In the Ashanti Region, the government has focused on expanding primary education access in underserved communities. Mr. Mba Zechariah Alenbilla, District Chief Executive (DCE) for Atwima Nwabiagya North, recently commissioned the first-ever kindergarten and primary school blocks for the Nketia and Akwaboa communities. Funded by the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF), these facilities eliminate the need for young children to travel long distances to neighboring towns for schooling. Similarly, in the Wa East District, a six-unit classroom block in Jeyiri that had been abandoned since 2016 has finally been completed and handed over to the community. DCE Adamu Sayibu noted that the revival of this project, originally started with GETFund resources, reflects the current administration's commitment to completing stalled infrastructure to serve local educational needs. Addressing concerns over existing structures, Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene has clarified the status of a 12-unit classroom block in Mankranso. Contrary to reports suggesting the building would be demolished to make way for a 24-Hour Economy Market, Dr. Amoakohene stated the facility will be re-engineered. This innovative redesign aims to accommodate both educational functions for lower primary pupils and commercial market needs, ensuring that parents working at the market remain close to their children while preserving the integrity of the local educational environment. Despite these physical advancements, non-governmental organizations and community leaders have highlighted critical gaps in staffing and maintenance. The NGO "School for Life" has called for increased investment in rural infrastructure, noting that poverty and gender barriers continue to keep children out of school in remote areas. This is exemplified in Jeyiri, where the newly commissioned block faces a severe teacher shortage, currently operating with only three teachers for all classes. Programs Manager Zulyaden Amadu emphasized that new buildings must be accompanied by adequate learning materials, teacher accommodation, and robust community governance to ensure quality education. As these projects move forward, officials have urged local cooperation to maintain the new facilities. In Atwima Nwabiagya North, the District Director of Education, Frank Duah Boateng, has promised the prompt posting of teachers to the newly opened schools, while local chiefs have appealed for additional Junior High School blocks and improved sanitation services. These developments signal a multi-pronged approach to Ghanaian education, combining large-scale private investment at the tertiary level with the completion of essential primary infrastructure through the District Assemblies Common Fund to bridge the gap between urban and rural learning environments.

Shatta Wale and Republic Bank MD Urge Ghanaian Youth to Prioritize Entrepreneurial Mindsets and Time Management
education|

Shatta Wale and Republic Bank MD Urge Ghanaian Youth to Prioritize Entrepreneurial Mindsets and Time Management

Leading figures from Ghana’s creative and financial sectors have issued a clarion call to the youth to embrace personal development and entrepreneurial thinking as essential tools for success. Speaking at separate engagements, dancehall artiste Shatta Wale and Republic Bank (Ghana) PLC Managing Director, Dr. Benjamin Dzoboku, highlighted that academic qualifications alone are insufficient in the modern competitive landscape. Both leaders emphasized that the foundation of professional and personal achievement lies in the disciplined management of one's mind and time. Addressing students at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) during the UPSA 1000 and Ghana Entrepreneurship Conference, Shatta Wale challenged the next generation to look beyond their degrees. He urged students to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset characterized by adaptability and a keen eye for opportunities. "Learn from my thinking and adaptability rather than imitating my lifestyle," he advised, stressing that mental capacity must be built before pursuing financial wealth. He specifically pointed to the digital economy and technology as critical levers for the youth to transform challenges into sustainable income streams while cautioning against the complacency that often follows initial success. Complementing this focus on mindset, Dr. Benjamin Dzoboku provided a practical framework for achievement during an interview on Joy FM’s Personality Profile. He underscored the importance of intentional time management, noting that while every individual is granted the same 24 hours, the disparity in success often stems from how those hours are utilized. Dr. Dzoboku cautioned the youth against the pervasive distractions of social media, urging them instead to focus on activities that enhance their skills and professional knowledge. He linked his own career journey in the banking sector to consistency and focus, reminding young Ghanaians that they must remain accountable for their own progress and talents. The dual messages from these influential figures underscore a broader educational shift toward soft skills and self-discipline. Whether through Shatta Wale’s call for lifelong learning and problem-solving or Dr. Dzoboku’s emphasis on talent development through dedicated effort, the consensus remains that the youth must take a proactive approach to their futures. As Ghana continues to navigate a complex economic environment, the integration of these principles—entrepreneurial grit and rigorous time management—is presented as the primary path for young people to build a prosperous and responsible future.