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.

Nana Francis Essel Okyeahene (2nd from left) receiving the award
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Education Reform and Infrastructure Push: Stakeholders Seek BECE Subject Reduction and SHS Performance Improvements

Education stakeholders across Ghana are intensifying efforts to overhaul the country's academic performance and infrastructure, focusing on both basic and senior high school levels. In a move to streamline the national curriculum, traditional authorities are advocating for a significant reduction in the number of subjects examined at the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). Simultaneously, the Volta Regional Education Directorate has launched a strategic intervention to address declining West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) results, amidst promises from Parliament to prioritize school logistics and infrastructure under the administration of President John Mahama. Nana Francis Essel Okyeahene, the Gyasehene of Gomoa Wassa, has formally urged the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service to reduce BECE subjects from the current 10 or 11 down to approximately five. He argues that the current academic load is overwhelming for junior high school students and serves as a major contributor to high failure rates. By narrowing the scope of the examination, Nana Okyeahene suggests that the educational system can pivot toward practical, skills-based learning that better prepares youth for the job market, thereby addressing the growing challenge of graduate unemployment. At the secondary level, the Volta Regional Education Directorate has convened a three-day strategic capacity-building clinic for the heads of all 68 Senior High Schools (SHS) and Senior High Technical Schools (SHTS) in the region. Acting Director Jemima Marian Akua Adzroe expressed serious concern over recent WASSCE performance, revealing that some institutions have recorded zero progression rates. Supported by teacher unions such as the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) and the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), the clinic focuses on enhancing leadership, analyzing performance data, and developing school-specific action plans to reverse the downward trend in academic outcomes. Complementing these academic reforms, the Chairman of the Parliamentary Education Committee, Peter Nortsu Kotoe, has assured school leaders that the government is actively working to resolve critical deficits in furniture, vehicles, and infrastructure. While acknowledging that previous funding gaps have hindered progress, Kotoe noted that interventions are underway to complete stalled projects and improve transportation for school management. This aligns with calls from the Ghana Academia Awards for President John Mahama to specifically target rural school infrastructure, ensuring that resource gaps between urban and rural educational centers are bridged to create an equitable learning environment nationwide.

NYA and YEA Scale Up Youth Employment Initiatives with 100,000 New Apprenticeship Targets for 2026
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NYA and YEA Scale Up Youth Employment Initiatives with 100,000 New Apprenticeship Targets for 2026

The government of Ghana has significantly expanded its youth empowerment and employment initiatives, with the National Youth Authority (NYA) and the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) announcing record-breaking recruitment and training figures. In 2025, the National Apprenticeship Programme successfully trained 14,000 young people, exceeding its initial target of 10,000. Following this success, NYA Chief Executive Officer Osman Ayariga announced an ambitious roadmap to train 100,000 youth by the end of 2026, focusing on bridging the skills gap through a curriculum that balances 30% classroom instruction with 70% hands-on practical training. To support this expansion, the NYA is implementing a comprehensive support system for young entrepreneurs and mastercraft persons. Beyond technical training, the authority is certifying mastercraft persons to ensure high standards of mentorship and is providing youth-owned businesses with critical financial relief. Already, 21 endorsements for tax holidays have been approved, signaling a shift toward making youth entrepreneurship more sustainable and rewarding under the current administration's economic framework. Simultaneously, the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) has achieved a major milestone by recruiting over 90,000 young individuals for various public sector and community-based roles. CEO Malik Basintale revealed that these recruits have been integrated into vital services, including 6,000 personnel in community medical services and 12,000 in community policing, alongside roles in the fire service and research. This multi-sectoral approach aims to provide immediate employment while addressing critical manpower shortages in essential services across the country. Looking forward, the government is set to launch the Graduates and Corporate Support Programme, a strategic collaboration between the YEA, the National Service Secretariat, and the 24-Hour Economy initiative championed by President John Mahama. This upcoming programme is designed to create additional pathways for university graduates to enter the corporate workforce, ensuring that the momentum of the 24-Hour Economy is fueled by a skilled and energetic youth population. These collective efforts represent a centralized push to reduce unemployment and foster industrial growth through vocational excellence and professional placement.

University of Ghana to Host 'Tell Your Story' Mentorship Conference and 2026 Youth in Tourism Festival
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University of Ghana to Host 'Tell Your Story' Mentorship Conference and 2026 Youth in Tourism Festival

The University of Ghana is set to host two major youth-centered initiatives this August, aiming to bridge the gap between seasoned leaders and the next generation. The 'Tell Your Story' Conference, scheduled for August 22, 2026, will serve as a platform for prominent figures from politics, business, and industry to share their personal professional journeys. Organized by the General Secretary of the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS), Benedict Amerloku, the event focuses on authentic narratives rather than traditional leadership theories, highlighting the resilience needed to overcome career challenges. This mentorship-driven approach is designed to provide young Ghanaians with relatable insights into building credibility and navigating the complexities of public service and private enterprise. Following this, the Tourism Society of Ghana (TOSOGHA) will launch the 2026 Youth in Tourism Festival (YOTOFEST) on August 25 at the same venue. Under the theme 'My Culture, My Pride: The Role of the Youth in Promoting Domestic Tourism,' the festival aims to empower young people through skill development and networking. TOSOGHA Executive Director Joseph Amartey noted that the event, which expects to attract over 3,000 participants, will feature summits and exhibitions aimed at promoting Ghana's tourism brand. The festival will conclude with an awards ceremony recognizing excellence in tourism and the creation of youth opportunities. Together, these events reflect a concerted effort by the University of Ghana and its partners to foster a new era of leadership and economic engagement. By combining narrative-based mentorship with practical industry exposure, these initiatives prepare emerging leaders to contribute meaningfully to national development. This dual focus on leadership and culture ensures that the next generation is equipped with both the ethical foundation and the professional skills necessary to thrive in a globalized economy.

Prof Eric Nyarko Sampso (arrowed), Vice-Chancellor of University of Environment and Sustainable Development, with participants atfer the seminar
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UESD and GJA Champion Specialized Training and Ethical Standards for Ghanaian Journalists

Ghanaian media practitioners are increasingly being called upon to enhance their technical expertise and ethical rigor to meet the demands of a rapidly changing global landscape. From specialized reporting on environmental sustainability to navigating the complexities of Artificial Intelligence (AI), recent initiatives led by the University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD) and the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) underscore a national push toward more responsible and specialized journalism. These efforts aim to bridge the gap between complex technical information and public understanding, ensuring the media remains a credible tool for national development. In Koforidua, the UESD, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, recently conducted a two-day seminar titled "Reporting Green Innovation." Professor Eric Nyarko Sampson, Vice-Chancellor of UESD, emphasized that stronger collaboration with the media is vital for promoting sustainable development and preserving natural resources. The training equipped journalists with the necessary skills to report on green initiatives, specifically addressing critical sectors like agro-waste management, aquaculture, and the reduction of post-harvest losses. Mary Abena Agyepong, Administrator of the Nkabom Collaborative, further urged journalists to commit to responsible reporting to influence positive public perceptions of environmental advancements. Complementing this technical training, the GJA has focused on the ethical foundations of the profession in the digital age. During a symposium marking the GJA’s 77th anniversary, President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour cautioned journalists against allowing technology to compromise public trust. While acknowledging the potential of AI to enhance newsrooms, Dwumfour stressed that technology must serve journalism through clear editorial policies and human judgment. He warned against the risks of misinformation, advocating for a culture of "waiting to verify" rather than rushing to publish for the sake of speed, stating that true courage lies in accuracy. These developments highlight a growing consensus that the future of Ghanaian journalism depends on a combination of specialized knowledge and unwavering ethical standards. By focusing on green innovation and digital integrity, the media industry is positioning itself to better serve the public interest. This collective commitment from academic institutions, professional associations, and government bodies is expected to foster a more informed citizenry capable of engaging with the environmental and technological challenges of the 21st century.

Gifty Abena Turkson (seated 2nd from left), Deputy General Secretary of TEWU-TUC, speaking at the press conference
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TEWU and TUTAG Issue Strike Ultimatums as Ghana Education Service Moves to Resolve Promotion Disputes

The Ghanaian education sector is facing significant labour unrest as major unions issue strike ultimatums while the Ghana Education Service (GES) scrambles to address mounting grievances over promotions and remuneration. The Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU-TUC) and the Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG) have both signaled their intent to disrupt academic activities if their demands are not met. This development comes as President John Mahama’s administration navigates complex labour negotiations aimed at maintaining stability in the nation’s technical universities and pre-tertiary institutions. TEWU-TUC initiated a two-week notice period on August 14, 2026, while TUTAG has set a firm deadline of August 31, 2026, for the government to address their concerns. The unions are demanding fair treatment regarding promotions, the payment of overdue allowances for security personnel, and a general review of remuneration packages. In a symbolic display of their resolve, TUTAG has directed its members to wear red bands, warning that a failure to reach a resolution will result in a full-scale industrial action that could paralyze technical universities across the country. In response to the growing tension, the Ghana Education Service (GES) convened an emergency meeting with union leaders on August 18, 2026. The primary focus of these discussions centered on the substantive dates for the 2025 promotion exercise, which had become a point of contention for many teachers. Management at the GES acknowledged the validity of the concerns raised and expressed a commitment to finding an amicable resolution. While the meeting was described as a step forward, the unions remain cautious, awaiting concrete timelines and actions rather than just verbal assurances. The outcome of these negotiations will be critical for the academic calendar. As the deadlines approach, the government faces the challenge of balancing fiscal constraints with the need to satisfy a restive workforce. Should the GES and the Ministry of Education fail to provide satisfactory solutions before TUTAG's August 31 cutoff, the resulting strikes could lead to significant academic delays for thousands of students. For now, the education sector remains in a state of high alert as stakeholders await the next move from the Mahama administration.

KNUST Hostel Owners Association Challenges Rent Control Commissioner Over Student Accommodation Price Regulation
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KNUST Hostel Owners Association Challenges Rent Control Commissioner Over Student Accommodation Price Regulation

The President of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Hostel Owners Association, Bishop Akwasi Owusu-Bi, has voiced strong opposition to the government's attempts to regulate hostel pricing. This pushback follows recent statements and inspection tours by the Acting Rent Control Commissioner, Frederick Opoku, who has expressed grave concerns over the escalating costs of student accommodation. The conflict highlights a growing tension between private property owners and state authorities over the affordability of higher education in Ghana. Bishop Owusu-Bi’s reaction was sparked by Commissioner Opoku's active engagement with hostel facilities, where the commissioner signaled a move toward stricter price controls to protect students from potential exploitation. In a sharp retort, Owusu-Bi suggested that if the government intends to control rent, it should focus its efforts on high-end residential areas such as East Legon rather than targeting student hostels. The hostel owners argue that their pricing reflects the high operational costs and market demands associated with providing specialized housing for the university community. The Rent Control Department, under Opoku’s leadership, maintains that its primary objective is to ensure that rent charges are fair and do not become a barrier to education. As student populations grow and on-campus housing remains insufficient to meet demand, private hostels have become the primary alternative for thousands of students. However, the lack of a standardized pricing framework has led to significant variance in fees, which the government argues puts an undue financial strain on parents and guardians during the academic season. As the standoff continues, the outcome could set a significant precedent for how student accommodation is managed across Ghana’s tertiary institutions. While the KNUST Hostel Owners Association remains firm in its stance against what it perceives as government overreach into private business affairs, the Rent Control Department faces increasing pressure to stabilize the housing market for the benefit of the student body. The debate raises broader questions about the balance between private investment in education infrastructure and the state’s responsibility to ensure essential services remain accessible to all citizens.

Ghana School of Law SRC President-elect Isaac Nlason Petitions for Special Examination Dispensation
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Ghana School of Law SRC President-elect Isaac Nlason Petitions for Special Examination Dispensation

Isaac Nlason, the President-elect of the Students' Representative Council (SRC) at the Ghana School of Law, has officially petitioned the Independent Examinations Committee (IEC) to grant a one-time special dispensation for students facing academic referrals. The petition, submitted on August 17, 2026, seeks to provide relief for students who would otherwise be required to repeat an entire academic year due to failed examination papers. Nlason’s appeal is specifically aimed at ensuring that student progression is not unfairly hindered during a period of significant regulatory transition within the country's legal education system. Under the proposed dispensation, the SRC leadership is requesting that Part I students who failed more than two subjects, and Part II students who failed two subjects, be permitted to rewrite those specific papers rather than repeating the full year. This transitional arrangement is designed to address the challenges brought about by the introduction of a new legal education regime, which includes the phased discontinuation of the existing Professional Law Course. The petition was formally addressed to Justice Sir Dennis Dominic Adjei and copied to several high-ranking authorities, including the Chief Justice and the management of the Ghana School of Law. Nlason emphasized that the request is rooted in the principles of fairness and continuity, arguing that the shifting educational landscape necessitates a compassionate approach for the current cohort of students. He maintained that such a dispensation would not compromise the rigorous academic standards of the institution but would instead provide a reasonable pathway for students to complete their studies. The SRC President-elect noted that the move is essential to mitigate the stress and financial burden associated with repeating an academic year, especially as the school moves toward a new curriculum and examination structure. The petition comes at a critical time for legal education in Ghana, as the sector undergoes reforms intended to modernize the training of legal professionals. By advocating for these changes, the SRC aims to protect the interests of the student body while supporting the broader goals of the Ghana School of Law. The legal community and student body now await a response from the Independent Examinations Committee and the General Legal Council to determine if the proposed measures will be implemented for the upcoming academic cycle.

GES says Free SHS not cancelled, warns against GH¢1,500 chop box claim
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Ghana Education Service Dismisses Rumors of Free SHS Cancellation and GH"1,500 Payment Demands

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a firm rebuttal against social media rumors claiming that the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy has been cancelled. In addition to debunking the alleged policy reversal, the GES clarified that there is no directive requiring parents or guardians to pay GH"1,500 for student essentials such as chop boxes and trunks. The service labeled these viral reports as completely false and urged the public to treat them with the contempt they deserve. In an official circular dated August 18, the GES emphasized that the Director-General does not possess the administrative authority to unilaterally cancel a national policy of such magnitude. The statement, issued by Daniel Fenyi, the Head of Public Relations for the GES, reiterated that the Free SHS program remains fully intact and operational across the country. The service expressed concern that such misinformation could create unnecessary panic among parents and students who are preparing for the upcoming school terms. The GES further warned parents against making any payments to individuals or groups based on these unverified social media claims. By providing this clarification, the education authority seeks to insulate families from potential extortion and ensure that the transition into the senior high school system remains free of unauthorized financial burdens. This move highlights the persistent challenge of misinformation targeting government social intervention programs and the need for rigorous verification of information from official sources. To avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes, the Ghana Education Service has advised all stakeholders to rely strictly on official communications released through their formal channels. The service remains committed to the successful implementation of the Free SHS policy and encourages the public to remain vigilant. Parents are encouraged to report any school official or third party demanding illegal fees to the GES for immediate investigation and action.

UTAS and Let’s Go North Empower Upper East Youth through Digital Media Influence Bootcamp
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UTAS and Let’s Go North Empower Upper East Youth through Digital Media Influence Bootcamp

Students and young professionals in Ghana’s Upper East Region have been equipped with vital skills for the modern digital economy following the successful conclusion of the Digital Media Influence Bootcamp 2025. Hosted by the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) in Navrongo, in collaboration with the non-governmental organization Let’s Go North, the initiative was designed to transform participants from passive consumers into active, responsible creators and entrepreneurs. The program highlights a strategic shift in regional educational focus toward practical, market-ready expertise that addresses the specific demands of the 21st-century job market. The bootcamp offered hands-on training across a variety of disciplines, including digital media monetization, storytelling, blogging, and digital marketing. Beyond technical skills, the sessions also tackled critical modern challenges such as cybersecurity awareness and the fight against online misinformation. By providing tools for immediate application, organizers aimed to foster a new generation of digital innovators who can leverage the internet for economic growth while maintaining a professional and ethical online presence. Vice-Chancellor of UTAS, Professor Albert Luguterah, emphasized the university’s commitment to providing students with life-changing skills that extend beyond conventional academic qualifications. He noted that such practical competencies are essential for ensuring that graduates remain competitive on a global stage. Supporting this vision, Ms. Maltiti Sayida Sadick, the founder of Let’s Go North, encouraged the youth to begin building their digital careers as early as possible, stressing that the barriers to entry in the digital space are lower than traditional industries if one possesses the right skill set. This initiative marks a significant step toward bridging the digital divide that often persists between Northern Ghana and the southern sectors. By nurturing a localized ecosystem of content creators and digital business owners, UTAS and its partners hope to drive regional development and youth employment. Looking forward, both UTAS and Let’s Go North have signaled their intention to expand these training programs, reaching more youth across the region to ensure that the Upper East remains a hub for digital innovation and responsible social media influence.

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa Secures 240 Fully Funded Russian Scholarships for Ghanaian Students
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Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa Secures 240 Fully Funded Russian Scholarships for Ghanaian Students

Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced a significant expansion of educational opportunities for Ghanaian youth following successful bilateral engagements in Russia. During an official state visit, the Minister revealed that the Russian government has agreed to double the number of annual fully funded scholarships available to Ghanaian students. The allocation will increase from the previous 120 slots to 240, providing an additional 120 students each year the chance to pursue higher education abroad without financial burden. This strategic increase is specifically tailored to address critical gaps in Ghana’s technical and scientific workforce. The scholarship program will prioritize students pursuing degrees in high-growth and essential development sectors, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Engineering, Petroleum Sciences, and Pharmaceuticals. By focusing on these specialized fields, the initiative aims to equip a new generation of Ghanaian professionals with the expertise required to drive the nation’s industrial and technological ambitions under the current administration of President John Mahama. Beyond the immediate educational benefits, Minister Ablakwa’s visit served to deepen the diplomatic and economic partnership between the two nations. High-level discussions covered a broad spectrum of mutual interests, most notably Russia’s support for Ghana’s peaceful nuclear energy program. This collaboration is viewed as a vital step toward diversifying Ghana’s energy mix and ensuring long-term energy security. Additionally, the two countries reaffirmed their commitment to addressing global challenges, including counterterrorism efforts, climate change mitigation, and ongoing debates surrounding United Nations reforms. The doubling of scholarship slots represents a milestone in Ghana-Russia relations and a substantial investment in the country's human capital. As these 240 students begin their academic journeys in Russia, the expertise they acquire is expected to play a pivotal role in national development. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicated that these educational exchanges are part of a broader strategy to foster international cooperation that yields tangible benefits for Ghanaian citizens, reinforcing the government’s focus on education as a cornerstone of economic transformation.

Haruna Iddrisu — Minister of Education
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Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu Unveils GH¢2.8bn Infrastructure Plan and Launches 2026 Ghana Teacher Prize

The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has outlined a comprehensive strategy to transform Ghana's educational landscape, committing approximately GH¢2.8 billion to infrastructure while emphasizing that increased access must translate into improved learning outcomes. Speaking at several high-profile events, including the launch of the 2026 Ghana Teacher Prize and the Regional Foundational Learning Evidence and Implementation Support Day, the Minister highlighted a significant shift toward evidence-based policy and foundational competency in literacy and numeracy. This vision is supported by a substantial GH¢33.3 billion allocation to the education sector in the 2026 budget. The GH¢2.8 billion infrastructure push, funded through the US$300 million STARR-J facility, is designed to address critical gaps in secondary and basic education. Minister Iddrisu underscored the urgency of this investment by citing an Auditor-General’s report which revealed that approximately 10,700 public basic schools currently lack classrooms, affecting millions of pupils nationwide. He advocated for transparent procurement processes and stressed that while infrastructure is vital, the ultimate measure of success is the competency of students. The Minister also noted the constitutional mandate for free, compulsory, and universal basic education, suggesting an emergency response is needed to address foundational gaps even as the nation maintains free secondary education. Parallel to physical infrastructure, the Ministry and the National Teaching Council (NTC) have officially launched the 2026 Ghana Teacher Prize to recognize the invaluable contributions of educators to national development. NTC Board Chairman Kwami Alorvi and Minister Iddrisu emphasized that teacher welfare is central to the government's agenda. To this end, the government is introducing a new rural posting allowance and working to address long-standing accommodation challenges for teachers. These incentives are intended to provide professional support and improve the conditions under which teachers operate, particularly in underserved communities. Looking toward the future, the government is modernizing the classroom experience through a revised curriculum for kindergarten to Primary Six. This update integrates digital skills, including robotics, coding, and Artificial Intelligence (AI), as core components of foundational learning. By combining large-scale infrastructure investment with teacher incentives and a technology-driven curriculum, the Ministry aims to ensure that every Ghanaian child gains the necessary literacy, numeracy, and digital skills to thrive in a modern economy. These initiatives, including the Ghana Accountability for Learning Outcomes Project (GALOP), reflect a commitment to data-driven educational reform.

Obuasi East Assembly donates relief items to 32 Christ the King Catholic SHS fire victims
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Obuasi East Assembly Supports SHS Fire Victims as Challenging Heights Strengthens Child Protection Governance

In a significant move to safeguard the welfare of students and vulnerable children in Ghana, the Obuasi East Municipal Assembly has stepped in to support fire victims at Christ the King Catholic Senior High School (SHS), while the prominent non-governmental organization Challenging Heights has launched a major governance overhaul. These parallel developments underscore a renewed national focus on institutional accountability and emergency response within the educational and social protection sectors. Following a devastating fire that gutted a dormitory block at Christ the King Catholic SHS, Municipal Chief Executive William Kofi Adzowu led a delegation to provide immediate relief items to 32 affected students. The assembly’s intervention included the donation of essential school supplies, such as trunks, beds, and other learning materials, aimed at alleviating the financial burden on the school and the parents of the victims. During the presentation, Mr. Adzowu commended the Ghana National Fire Service for their rapid response, which prevented further damage to the facility. While two students sustained injuries while attempting to save their belongings, they are receiving necessary care, and the school has confirmed that renovation works on the damaged dormitory are already underway. The Municipal Education Director praised the assembly for its timely fulfillment of promises, noting that such support is critical for maintaining the academic stability of the affected students. Simultaneously, the broader landscape of child protection in Ghana is seeing structural improvements through the reforms at Challenging Heights. The organization, which has dedicated two decades to child-centered advocacy, recently transitioned its Advisory Board into a fully-fledged Board of Directors, now chaired by Professor Mavis Amo-Mensah. This governance reform is designed to create a clear separation between oversight and daily management, ensuring that the NGO remains resilient beyond individual leadership. The new board has also adopted a comprehensive data protection framework in line with Ghana’s Data Protection Act, reinforcing the organization's commitment to the privacy and safety of the children it serves. These initiatives, ranging from localized emergency relief to national-level institutional reforms, highlight the multifaceted approach required to protect the next generation of Ghanaians. By combining immediate material support for students in crisis with long-term governance improvements in child advocacy organizations, stakeholders are working to build a more robust safety net. Moving forward, the focus remains on fire safety education within schools and the implementation of independent evaluations to ensure that social protection programs deliver maximum impact for the country's youth.