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 Minister Haruna Iddrisu Announces National Policy to Integrate Ghanaian Sign Language into Schools
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Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu Announces National Policy to Integrate Ghanaian Sign Language into Schools

The Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Education, is set to develop a comprehensive and sustainable policy for the formal integration of Ghanaian Sign Language (GSL) into the national education system. Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu announced the initiative, emphasizing that the policy will recognize GSL not merely as a communication tool for the hearing impaired, but as a vital language for self-expression, identity, and societal participation. This move follows strategic dialogues aimed at enhancing multilingual inclusive education and ensuring that deaf learners are provided with the necessary linguistic foundation to succeed academically. Central to the new policy is the standardization and documentation of GSL, with a specific focus on developing technical and scientific terminology to facilitate advanced learning. The government plans to produce specialized teaching materials and establish clear sign language competencies within the teacher education framework. To ensure high standards of instruction, the initiative will include robust programs for training and certifying sign language teachers and interpreters, effectively embedding specialized support within the broader educational infrastructure. Minister Iddrisu highlighted that the success of this policy should be measured by tangible learning outcomes and literacy levels rather than just student enrollment figures. By advocating for a bilingual approach that incorporates GSL alongside spoken and written languages, the government aims to improve the quality of education for deaf students. The policy also intends to implement accessible assessment practices, ensuring that examinations and evaluations are designed to accurately reflect the academic capabilities of students who communicate through sign language. This development aligns Ghana’s educational policies with international legal commitments regarding the rights of persons with disabilities and inclusive education. By formalizing GSL within schools, the government seeks to remove barriers to participation and provide deaf learners with the tools necessary for lifelong learning. The initiative represents a significant step toward a more equitable education system that respects linguistic diversity and fosters the full potential of every Ghanaian student.

Six Senior High Schools Advance to Quarter-Finals of the 2026 National Investment Quiz
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Six Senior High Schools Advance to Quarter-Finals of the 2026 National Investment Quiz

Six Senior High Schools (SHS) have successfully secured their places in the quarter-finals of the 2026 National Investment Quiz after a series of high-stakes preliminary contests. The qualifying institutions, which include Our Lady of Mercy Senior High School (OLAMS), Aggrey Memorial A.M.E. Zion SHS, Mfantsipim School, Wesley Girls’ High School, Apam SHS, and St. John’s Grammar School, demonstrated exceptional knowledge in financial matters to advance. These schools emerged from a competitive field, showcasing the growing interest and proficiency in financial literacy among Ghanaian second-cycle students. The preliminary stage was marked by intense academic rivalry across three main contests. In Contest 1, Aggrey Memorial A.M.E. Zion SHS clinched the top spot with 45 points, narrowly edging out Our Lady of Mercy SHS, which finished with 44 points, and Adisadel College, which scored 43.5 points. Mfantsipim School delivered the most dominant performance of the round in Contest 2, achieving the highest overall score of 59 points. This feat saw them qualify alongside Wesley Girls’ High School, which secured 44 points. The third contest was won by St. John’s Grammar School with 34 points, with Apam SHS also booking their quarter-final berth after scoring 32 points. Beyond the competition for trophies, the National Investment Quiz serves a critical educational purpose by equipping students with essential skills in savings, investment strategies, and general financial management. As these six qualifiers progress, the stakes are set to rise significantly in the upcoming quarter-finals. They will now face eight formidable seeded schools, including traditional powerhouses such as Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC), Legon, and St. Augustine’s College. This next phase of the competition is expected to further deepen the participants' understanding of the financial sector while fostering a culture of investment among the youth.

A formal gala dinner for the Old Schools Alumni Networking event held in a decorated ballroom. Guests are seated at round tables with white linens facing a stage where a speaker stands at a podium in front of a large digital screen displaying numerous school crests.
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PRESEC Alumni President Ernest Ofori Sarpong Honoured as 2026 Old Schools Alumni President of the Year

Mr. Ernest Ofori Sarpong, the Global President of the Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School (PRESEC) Alumni Association, has been named the 'Old Schools Alumni President of the Year 2026.' The honour was conferred during the inaugural Old Schools Alumni Networking Gala Dinner, an event organized by the Entrepreneurs Foundation of Ghana. Mr. Sarpong was celebrated for his dedicated leadership and significant contributions to both his alumni association and his alma mater, positioning him as a leading figure in educational philanthropy in Ghana.\n\nIn addition to the top individual award, Mr. Sarpong also received the 'Old Schools Alumni Project of the Year' award. This second honour was specifically for his instrumental role in the construction of a new 600-bed dormitory at PRESEC, Legon. The facility, named Ofori Sarpong House, represents a major infrastructure boost for the school, addressing student accommodation needs while setting a high standard for alumni-led developmental projects across the country.\n\nThe gala dinner also served as a platform to recognize other institutional and individual excellence within the Ghanaian alumni landscape. Notably, Mfantsipim School was awarded the 'Old Schools Alumni Legacy Boys’ School of the Year,' highlighting a long-standing tradition of excellence. Throughout the evening, speakers emphasized that alumni associations are more than social clubs; they are vital pillars of support that provide mentorship, career guidance, and community service essential for enhancing educational outcomes.\n\nLooking forward, the event underscored the critical role that alumni networks play in bridging the gap between successful professionals and current students. By fostering these relationships, associations are expected to enhance career development and long-term success for the next generation of Ghanaians. The recognition of leaders like Mr. Sarpong aims to inspire a new wave of alumni-led philanthropy and active engagement in supporting the nation's educational infrastructure.

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Educationist Aaron Feron-Fenuku Urges Teacher Reflection Following Zero Pass Rates in 15 Volta Region SHSs

Educationist Aaron Feron-Fenuku has issued a stern call for teachers and school administrators to reassess their professional commitments following an alarming report on academic performance in the Volta Region. According to recent data from the Ghana Education Service (GES), at least 15 Senior High Schools (SHSs) in the region recorded zero qualification rates in the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). This shocking outcome has prompted a broader discussion on the efficacy of the current educational delivery system and the specific roles of frontline educators in ensuring student success. Speaking on the back of these findings, Feron-Fenuku emphasized that the path to improving SHS performance begins with an honest self-assessment by teachers regarding their core responsibilities. He highlighted that effective teaching is predicated on thorough preparation, punctuality, and a consistent system for monitoring student progress. By reflecting on these fundamental pillars, educators can better identify where gaps in the learning process occur and implement the necessary interventions to prevent the total failure of entire cohorts of students. Beyond individual teacher accountability, the educationist pointed to a wider systemic crisis involving school management and student attitudes. He noted that school heads bear a significant burden of responsibility for supervising teaching practices and ensuring that a conducive learning environment is maintained. Furthermore, Feron-Fenuku criticized a growing culture among students that favors shortcuts over genuine learning, warning that a reliance on examination malpractices and "trial-and-error" approaches to academic achievement is detrimental to the nation’s human resource development. To address these challenges, Feron-Fenuku called for a unified front involving all stakeholders, including parents and community leaders. He argued that restoring a culture of discipline and academic integrity requires more than just administrative changes; it necessitates a collective shift in priorities toward genuine knowledge acquisition. As the Ghana Education Service and regional authorities review the 2026 WASSCE performance, the educationist’s remarks serve as a reminder that the restoration of academic excellence in the Volta Region depends on the renewed dedication of those at the helm of the classroom.

Controller and Accountant-General's Department Processes Promotion Payments for 6,079 Teachers Amid Nationwide Strike
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Controller and Accountant-General's Department Processes Promotion Payments for 6,079 Teachers Amid Nationwide Strike

The Controller and Accountant-General’s Department (CAGD) has confirmed the processing and payment of 6,079 teacher promotion cases, including applicable arrears, in an effort to address labor unrest within the education sector. These payments, which were reflected in the September 2026 salary cycle, include arrears backdated to January 1, 2026. The announcement comes as teacher unions, including the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), and the Pre-Tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana (PRETAG), declared or threatened strike actions over prolonged delays in salary placements and unpaid arrears for promoted staff. While the processing of these cases marks progress, a significant gap remains between the number of teachers paid and the total number of promotions. The CAGD revealed that it has only received 6,079 completed cases from the Ghana Education Service (GES) out of an anticipated total of 58,620 cases. The department clarified that the payroll administration process relies on a dual-platform system involving the Human Resource Management Information System (HRMIS) and the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Database 2 (IPPD2). According to the CAGD, the GES is responsible for initiating promotions and providing the necessary documentation to trigger salary adjustments. The department emphasized that the primary cause for the outstanding payments is a lack of valid documentation from the GES, such as signed promotion forms and official letters. The CAGD maintained that these documents are essential for validation to ensure the legitimacy of payments and to prevent unauthorized adjustments to the government payroll. As of late September 2026, many cases remain pending because they lack the required paperwork for the CAGD to finalize the transactions. To resolve the standoff and ensure the remaining 52,541 teachers are correctly placed on their new salary scales, the CAGD has called for increased collaboration among stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education and the GES. A framework established during a meeting on August 31 was intended to streamline the submission of the full list of promoted teachers. The CAGD has assured all legitimate claimants that their payments will be handled promptly once the GES submits the necessary documentation, urging unions to remain cooperative as the administrative hurdles are cleared.

A man in a blue pinstripe suit speaks passionately during a press conference surrounded by numerous microphones from various Ghanaian media outlets. The scene includes a glimpse of the Ghana national flag in the background and a watermark for the Ministry of Education, Republic of Ghana.
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Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu to Meet Striking Teacher Unions Over Unpaid Arrears and Conditions

The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has scheduled an emergency meeting with the leadership of Ghana’s three primary pre-tertiary teacher unions for Monday, September 28, 2026. This high-level intervention follows the declaration of a nationwide strike on September 25 by the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Pre-Tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana (PRETAG). The industrial action was triggered by what the unions describe as a persistent failure by the government to fulfill commitments regarding teacher welfare and administrative professionalization. At the heart of the dispute are several unresolved financial and administrative grievances, most notably the non-payment of promotion arrears and the delayed implementation of the Deprived Area Allowance. The unions are also demanding the immediate conclusion of negotiations for a new Collective Agreement and the automatic placement of teachers who recently passed promotion examinations onto their correct salary scales. NAGRAT President Jacob Anaba has indicated that while the unions remain open to dialogue, they require a genuine resolution to these long-standing issues before considering a suspension of the strike, which has already begun to affect school operations across the country. The Ministry of Education, through Press Secretary Hasmin Mohammed, has expressed deep concern over the strike's potential to disrupt the academic calendar, which only recently resumed in September. To facilitate a comprehensive resolution, the upcoming meeting will include representatives from the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) and the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department. The Ministry has emphasized its commitment to restoring normalcy for students and has urged the unions to prioritize the interests of learners while negotiations continue. Adding to the urgency, the Minority Caucus in Parliament has linked the growing dissatisfaction among teachers to broader systemic failures in the education sector, specifically citing the mass failure in the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). The caucus warned that demotivated teachers are unable to provide the quality instruction necessary for student success, asserting that the nation risks losing its future if teacher conditions are not prioritized. The outcome of Monday's meeting is expected to be a critical turning point for the academic year and the broader stability of the education sector under the current administration.

Her entire life reduced to being the wife” — Tochi warns against early marriage
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Tochi Okechukwu Urges Young Women to Prioritize Education and Self-Discovery Over Early Marriage

Tochi Okechukwu, a former Big Brother Naija housemate, has sparked a significant conversation on social media regarding the impact of early marriage on the personal development of young women. In a recent public statement, Okechukwu advised young women to prioritize their personal growth, identity discovery, and education before considering domestic life. He cautioned that rushing into marriage prematurely can lead to a loss of individual ambition, effectively reducing a woman's entire identity to her role as a spouse before she has had the opportunity to realize her full potential.\n\nIn a detailed post shared via Instagram, Tochi emphasized the critical importance of self-discovery and the pursuit of independence. He warned that when women settle down too early, they often sacrifice their personal goals and a sense of self-governance. According to the media personality, the transition into marriage should be approached with significant deliberation and careful timing, ensuring that women have the emotional and professional foundation necessary to navigate marriage without losing their aspirations.\n\nCentral to his message is the call for women to focus on education and financial self-sufficiency as primary objectives. He suggested that the phrase "reduced to being the wife" represents a common consequence for those who enter unions without first establishing their own career paths or academic achievements. By advocating for a "self-first" approach during early adulthood, Okechukwu highlights a shifting cultural perspective where independence is seen as a prerequisite for a healthy, balanced partnership.\n\nThis advocacy reflects broader social discussions in the region regarding the empowerment of women and the socioeconomic benefits of delayed marriage. Tochi’s stance serves as a reminder of the importance of individual autonomy in the face of traditional societal pressures. As public figures continue to influence lifestyle choices, his message reinforces the idea that women are better equipped for life’s challenges when they have first invested in their own education and self-development.

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Ghana Education Service Warns SHS Heads Against Collection of Unauthorized Fees and PTA Dues

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a stern warning to the heads of second-cycle institutions across the country, ordering an immediate halt to the collection of unauthorized fees from parents and guardians. This directive comes as first-year Senior High School (SHS) and Senior High Technical School (SHTS) students began reporting for the 2026 academic year on September 18. The GES management emphasized that these illegal collections directly contradict the government's free senior high school policy, which aims to eliminate financial barriers to secondary education for all Ghanaian children. According to the GES, school heads must not compel parents to pay admission fees or Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) dues as a condition for enrollment. The Service specifically highlighted that the mandatory collection of PTA dues is currently under judicial review, making any requirement for payment legally sensitive at this time. The GES management expressed concern that such unauthorized practices undermine the transparency and accessibility of the placement process, which this year saw 87.3% of qualified candidates successfully assigned to their respective schools. In a move to ensure accountability and relief for affected families, the GES has instructed all school heads who have already collected unapproved fees to refund them to parents immediately. The Service has warned that non-compliant officials will face administrative sanctions. By enforcing these regulations, the Ghana Education Service aims to protect the integrity of the national education policy and ensure that the transition into SHS remains a purely academic milestone rather than a financial burden for Ghanaian households.

EducationUSA College Fair in Kumasi Draws Over 3,000 Students Seeking US Higher Education
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EducationUSA College Fair in Kumasi Draws Over 3,000 Students Seeking US Higher Education

More than 3,000 students from various secondary and tertiary institutions in the Ashanti Region and beyond gathered in Kumasi for the EducationUSA College Fair. This significant turnout highlights the growing interest among Ghanaian youth in pursuing higher education in the United States. The event served as a critical platform for prospective students to engage directly with representatives from over 20 American universities, offering a bridge to international academic opportunities and fostering a new wave of global scholars. The fair provided comprehensive guidance on the complexities of international education, including detailed information on admissions processes, student visa requirements, and available scholarship opportunities. EducationUSA advisers were present to offer both in-person and virtual assistance, helping students navigate the application landscape with increased confidence. This direct interaction allowed students to build essential connections with institutions, demystifying the path to studying abroad and providing a clearer roadmap for their academic futures. Ghana’s participation in these fairs underscores its position as a major contributor to international education, currently ranking as the second-highest sender of students to the United States from Sub-Saharan Africa. Officials at the event emphasized that such educational exchanges are not merely personal achievements but are vital components of national development. By acquiring global perspectives and specialized skills, Ghanaian students are expected to return home better equipped to contribute to the country’s socio-economic growth and foster global collaboration. As international higher education becomes increasingly accessible through such initiatives, the success of the Kumasi fair reflects a broader trend of cross-cultural academic pursuit. The collaboration between the US Embassy's EducationUSA network and local students continues to strengthen bilateral ties, ensuring that the next generation of Ghanaian leaders is integrated into the global knowledge economy. Future sessions are expected to continue this momentum, providing a steady pipeline for talent development and international partnership.

Haruna Iddrisu (seated middle), Minister of Education, addressing the media
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Ghana to Host Second High-Level Conference on Scaling Education Initiatives in Emergencies This September

Ghana is set to host the Second High-Level Conference on Scaling Education Initiatives in Emergencies (EiE) on September 29-30, 2026, marking a significant step in addressing the global educational crisis. Organized by Associates for Change in collaboration with several international partners, the two-day event will bring together policymakers, researchers, and educators to develop strategies for children whose schooling has been disrupted by conflict and natural disasters. The conference serves as a critical platform for the West African sub-region, which continues to face unique challenges in maintaining educational continuity during periods of instability. Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has highlighted the gravity of the situation, noting that over 72 million children globally are currently out of school due to various crises. West Africa is particularly affected, with regional conflicts and environmental shocks creating persistent barriers to learning. The primary objective of this high-level gathering is to utilize policy-relevant evidence to enhance both the access to and the quality of education in emergency settings. By focusing on evidence-based scaling, the conference aims to move beyond temporary fixes toward sustainable, systemic solutions for vulnerable youth. A major focus of the upcoming discussions will be the intensifying impact of climate change on the educational landscape. Minister Iddrisu emphasized that climate-driven events, such as severe flooding and the subsequent displacement of communities, have led to an increase in school closures across the region. These environmental factors are increasingly recognized as primary drivers of educational inequity, as they not only damage infrastructure but also create long-term disruptions that prevent children from returning to the classroom even after the initial crisis has passed. As Ghana prepares to lead this regional dialogue, the focus remains on translating academic research into actionable government policy. The conference is expected to produce a framework for better coordination between humanitarian actors and national education systems. By establishing more resilient educational structures, stakeholders hope to ensure that the fundamental right to education is protected for all children, regardless of the emergencies they may face. The outcomes of this meeting will likely influence regional education strategies across West Africa for years to come.

New UCC Vice-Chancellor visits Prudential Bank, pledges stronger partnership
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UCC Vice-Chancellor Professor Denis Worlanyo Aheto Strengthens Strategic Partnership with Prudential Bank

Professor Denis Worlanyo Aheto, the newly appointed Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), has initiated high-level engagement with Prudential Bank Limited to reinforce the long-standing collaboration between the two institutions. During a courtesy visit to the bank's headquarters, Professor Aheto met with the Acting Managing Director, Mr. Ebow Quayson, to discuss expanding their mutual cooperation. The meeting underscores a strategic effort by the university's new leadership to secure robust corporate backing for its academic and infrastructural goals in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.The discussions centered on several critical areas of cooperation, including enhanced financial services for the student body, direct educational support, and joint community development projects. Mr. Quayson commended the University of Cape Coast for its enduring relationship with the bank, noting that the institution remains a key partner in the bank's mission to support the education sector. He reaffirmed Prudential Bank’s commitment to providing the necessary financial architecture and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives that align with the university’s evolving needs under its new leadership.Outlining his roadmap for the university, Professor Aheto emphasized the importance of faculty upgrades and the implementation of comprehensive sustainability initiatives. He expressed profound gratitude for the bank’s historic support and signaled a desire to align the university’s growth with global standards. Specifically, the Vice-Chancellor highlighted his administration's commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which advocates for inclusive and equitable quality education and the promotion of lifelong learning opportunities for all.This renewed partnership is expected to yield tangible benefits for the UCC community, potentially through improved digital banking solutions for students and faculty, as well as collaborative research funding. As Professor Aheto begins his tenure, such alliances with the private sector are seen as vital for bridging the gap between academic theory and industry practice. The engagement sets a proactive tone for the university’s future, suggesting a focus on modernization, financial sustainability, and expanded outreach in the coming years.

Management and students of the College have called for urgent infrastructure development to promote effective teching and learning .
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Nkanchina Nursing College Appeals for Infrastructure Support to Secure Delayed Diploma Accreditation

Nearly six years after its establishment, the College of Community Health Nursing-Nkanchina in the Kpandai District of the Northern Region continues to operate under severe infrastructural constraints that threaten its growth and academic progression. Despite its critical mission of training nurses to serve in Ghana’s most underserved rural areas, the institution remains hampered by a lack of basic facilities and utilities. Currently, more than 500 students are enrolled in the college, yet the school’s management reports that significant gaps in infrastructure are now delaying the vital accreditation needed to introduce diploma-level programmes. The college’s operational environment is particularly challenging as it continues to function within repurposed buildings originally designed for leprosy treatment. These inadequate facilities have led to a severe shortage of classrooms and essential academic spaces. Beyond the physical structures, the institution is plagued by unreliable electricity and a near-total lack of internet connectivity, which are indispensable for modern medical training. Furthermore, transportation issues have made it difficult for both staff and students to navigate the remote location, further isolating the campus from the broader healthcare community. The management of the college has formally appealed to the government for urgent intervention to address these systemic failures. According to school officials, the introduction of diploma programmes is contingent on an infrastructure boost that meets the standards of the regulatory bodies. Without immediate investment in classrooms, laboratories, and reliable utility services, the college risks stagnation, potentially depriving the Northern Region of a steady stream of qualified healthcare professionals dedicated to rural service. The success of the institution is seen as pivotal to improving healthcare outcomes in the Kpandai District and beyond.