Education News from Ghana

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

A group of stakeholders, primarily women, pose for a group photograph in front of a building entrance labeled 'RECEPTION'. The individuals are dressed in a mix of Western and traditional Ghanaian attire, with one woman prominently featured in a blue and white kente-style wrap.
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Upper East Region Stakeholders Demand Urgent Investment to Address Teacher Shortages and Substandard Classrooms in Early Childhood Education

Stakeholders in the Upper East Region have issued a clarion call for intensified investment in early childhood education (ECE) to secure the foundational learning of children across the province. Speaking at the third-quarter meeting of the Upper East Regional Early Childhood Development Committee, representatives from the Regional Coordinating Council and the NGO Children Believe highlighted critical gaps that threaten the educational development of the region’s youngest citizens. Despite recent improvements in early-grade enrollment figures, the region continues to grapple with a severe shortage of specialized teachers and insufficient infrastructure, which experts argue undermines the rapid brain development occurring in children during their formative years. Mrs. Georgina Aberese-Ako and other education experts expressed grave concern that many children aged four and five are currently receiving instruction in substandard environments, including learning under trees. These conditions are largely attributed to historical planning oversights and a persistent lack of dedicated funding for early-grade facilities. The shortage of trained ECE specialists is currently so acute that many schools have been forced to rely on community volunteers to fill the void. Stakeholders emphasized that without qualified professionals who understand early developmental milestones, the goal of providing a robust foundation for lifelong learning remains at risk. Beyond infrastructure and staffing, the committee identified delayed kindergarten enrollment as a significant hurdle to regional progress. Many parents are reportedly failing to enroll their children at the appropriate age, missing the optimal window for cognitive growth and early socialization. To combat this trend, traditional leaders and district assemblies were urged to collaborate on resource mobilization and community sensitization. By educating parents on the importance of timely school entry, local authorities hope to align regional education practices with national standards and ensure that every child enters the formal school system prepared to succeed. The call for action serves as a critical reminder of the role early childhood care plays in Ghana’s broader educational objectives under the administration of President John Mahama. As the Upper East Region reviews its current activities affecting child development, the consensus among stakeholders is that a unified approach—combining government funding, NGO support, and community involvement—is the only way to eliminate "under-tree" classrooms and professionalize the sector. Moving forward, the regional committee seeks to prioritize specialized teacher training and ensure that early childhood education is treated as a primary pillar of regional development planning rather than an afterthought.

A woman and man shake hands over a newly donated dual school desk during an outdoor ceremony under a large tree in a rural setting. The desk features a label indicating it was donated by the Rotary Club of Bolgatanga Goodwill, with a large crowd of community members seated at similar desks in the background.
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Bolgatanga Goodwill Rotary Club Donates 50 Dual Desks to Solve Furniture Crisis at Kangkoom Primary School

The Bolgatanga Goodwill Rotary Club has stepped in to address a critical furniture shortage at Kangkoom Primary School in the Bongo District of the Upper East Region. By donating 50 dual desks, the club aims to alleviate the dire conditions faced by students, many of whom were previously forced to sit and write on the classroom floors. This intervention follows a comprehensive needs assessment that highlighted the school's struggle to accommodate its growing student population with extremely limited resources. \n\nPrior to this donation, Kangkoom Primary School, which serves 253 pupils, possessed only 28 functional desks. This staggering deficit meant that the vast majority of children lacked basic learning infrastructure. Alexis Ayamdor, President of the Bolgatanga Goodwill Rotary Club, explained that the initiative was funded through Rotary International District Grants. According to Ayamdor, the donation is a key component of the club's broader development agenda, which seeks to complement government efforts by supporting deprived schools and improving the overall quality of education in the region. \n\nThe Bongo District Chief Executive (DCE), Ms. Diana Asoketarige Ayamga, commended the Rotary Club for its timely intervention, noting that such partnerships are vital for rural development. She emphasized that the responsibility of providing quality education should not rest solely on the government. In response to the ongoing challenges at the school, Ms. Ayamga announced that the District Assembly has plans to procure additional furniture and is working on recruiting more teachers to ensure better educational outcomes for the students in the district. \n\nLocal leaders and school officials have expressed their gratitude for the support, while also stressing the need for the school community to maintain the new furniture properly. The donation serves as a call to action for other development partners and stakeholders to join forces in addressing the infrastructural gaps within the Ghanaian education sector. As the school transitions away from students writing on the floor, the focus now shifts toward sustaining these improvements and further enhancing the learning environment for future generations.

Cargill Ghana Bolsters Digital Education with New ICT Laboratory for Ahmadiyya Basic School in Tema
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Cargill Ghana Bolsters Digital Education with New ICT Laboratory for Ahmadiyya Basic School in Tema

Cargill Ghana Limited has taken a significant step toward boosting digital literacy in the Tema region by renovating and equipping a state-of-the-art Information and Communication Technology (ICT) laboratory for the Ahmadiyya Basic School. This project, executed under the company’s flagship "Cargill Cares" corporate social responsibility initiative, aims to modernize the school’s infrastructure and provide pupils with essential technological skills. The handover ceremony, attended by school officials and community leaders, marked a milestone in the school’s efforts to integrate digital education into its core curriculum. The newly refurbished facility is equipped with 32 modern computers, a printer, and ergonomic furniture, ensuring that students have access to high-quality tools for their studies. Max Essoh Latte, the Managing Director of Cargill Ghana, emphasized during the commissioning that the company views education as the cornerstone of community development and individual opportunity. By investing in this laboratory, Cargill seeks to empower the next generation with the digital competencies required in the modern global economy, reinforcing the company's commitment to social impact beyond its core business operations. The initiative has drawn praise from various educational stakeholders, who noted the critical role that private-sector partnerships play in augmenting government efforts to improve school infrastructure. The laboratory is designed to benefit both students and teachers, providing a dedicated space for practical ICT lessons that were previously difficult to conduct due to a lack of resources. This intervention is expected to significantly improve learning outcomes, as students can now engage in hands-on training that aligns with the national educational standards for technology and innovation.

The awardees after the ceremony
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Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu Calls on Alumni Networks to Prioritize Mentorship and Infrastructure Investment

The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has challenged old students’ associations across the country to transform their networking platforms into robust engines for investment and mentorship. Speaking at the Old Schools Alumni Networking Gala Dinner, the Minister emphasized that the collective influence of alumni goes beyond social nostalgia and should be harnessed to provide critical support for schools and the youth. He argued that the current educational landscape requires a collaborative approach where former students take an active role in shaping the futures of those currently in the classroom. The event highlighted the significant contributions of various individuals and institutions to Ghana's educational sector. Notably, Dr. Ernest Ofori-Sarpong was recognized as the Old Schools Alumni President of the Year 2026, while several other schools and brands were honored for their pursuit of excellence. Minister Iddrisu used the occasion to stress the importance of networking as a means to create real-world opportunities, urging successful alumni to look beyond their own alma maters and assist less-resourced schools that may lack the same level of institutional support. Moving forward, the Minister’s call serves as a directive for alumni associations to formalize their contribution strategies. By integrating mentorship and direct investment into their core mandates, these groups can help bridge the resource gap in the education sector. This shift toward strategic philanthropy is expected to create a more resilient educational system, ensuring that networking results in measurable improvements for students and infrastructure alike.

Mercy Odzawo, President of the Rotary Club of Accra, Labone, and the contesting students of La Yahoushua JHS.
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Rotary Club of Accra Labone Promotes Literacy with Spelling Bee for La Yahoushua JHS Students

The Rotary Club of Accra Labone has hosted a competitive spelling bee for students at La Yahoushua Junior High School (JHS) as part of a strategic effort to enhance literacy and vocabulary development within the community. The event served as a platform for students to demonstrate their linguistic abilities and intellectual stamina, aligning with Rotary International's global focus on basic education and literacy. By challenging students to master complex terminology, the club aims to foster a deeper interest in reading and academic excellence among the youth. Mercy Odzawo, President of the Rotary Club of Accra Labone, emphasized that the competition is part of a sustained partnership with La Yahoushua JHS. Beyond the spelling bee, the club has historically supported the institution through significant infrastructure and resource donations, including a functional library and a suite of computers. This holistic approach to education ensures that students have the necessary tools to apply the literacy skills they sharpen during such competitions. Observers noted that the participants showcased impressive skills and poise, despite the absence of formal study materials prior to the event, reflecting a high baseline of talent at the school. The competition's top honor was claimed by Dorothy Mawuena Batanyi, whose victory served as a testament to the power of perseverance and self-directed learning. Batanyi, who had previously placed ninth in a similar competition, climbed to the first-place position through what she described as diligent preparation and extensive independent research. To further support the academic journeys of the top performers, the Rotary Club awarded prizes including tablets, which are intended to serve as modern learning aids and digital resources for the students. This initiative underscores the critical role of service organizations in supplementing formal education systems in Ghana. By providing both the motivation through competition and the resources through donations, the Rotary Club of Accra Labone is helping to bridge the literacy gap. Moving forward, the club intends to maintain its commitment to La Yahoushua JHS, using these literacy programs as a blueprint for empowering students across the region to achieve their full academic potential.

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Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Critiques NDC’s Management of Free SHS at NPP National Delegates Conference

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has raised significant concerns regarding the current state of the Free Senior High School (SHS) programme under President John Mahama’s administration. Speaking at the NPP National Delegates Conference in Kumasi on October 3, 2025, Bawumia asserted that the flagship education policy is "suffering" due to what he described as poor management and a lack of commitment from the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC). He suggested that the gains made under the previous administration are being eroded by the current government's handling of the sector. The NPP leader highlighted several operational challenges that have reportedly intensified since the change of government in January 2025. Specifically, Dr. Bawumia pointed to deteriorating feeding arrangements for students and significant difficulties in the school placement process for Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) graduates. Furthermore, he noted the continued implementation of the double-track system, arguing that the NDC has failed to provide a clear roadmap for transitioning away from the staggered academic calendar despite their previous criticisms of the system. Bawumia framed these current challenges as evidence of the NDC's long-standing skepticism toward the Free SHS initiative. He contended that as the original architects and initiators of the programme, the NPP remains the only party capable of managing and sustaining it effectively. According to the flagbearer, the current conditions in senior high schools across the country validate the NPP's earlier warnings that the programme would be at risk if the NDC were to return to power. As education remains a central pillar of Ghanaian political discourse, these criticisms signal that the management of Free SHS will continue to be a primary battleground for the two major parties. With the NPP positioning itself as the primary defender of the policy, the Mahama administration faces increasing pressure to address the logistical and financial hurdles currently impacting the secondary education sector. The coming months will likely see further debate on how to improve the sustainability and quality of the programme amid these political tensions.

Nakpayili Senior High Technical School Opens as Long-Neglected E-Block Admits First Batch of 650 Students
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Nakpayili Senior High Technical School Opens as Long-Neglected E-Block Admits First Batch of 650 Students

After nearly a decade of standing as a silent monument to stalled development, the Nakpayili E-Block in the Nanumba South District of the Northern Region has officially opened its doors to students. The facility now serves as the permanent home for the Nakpayili Senior High Technical School, which has successfully admitted its first batch of 650 students. This operationalization marks a critical turning point for the community, transforming a previously neglected structure into a functional center for secondary and technical education. The school’s activation follows its official inclusion in the Computerized School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) and the successful connection of the site to essential utility services. According to the Headmaster, Mohammed Ibrahim, 16 teachers have been posted to the school to manage the initial cohort of students as academic activities begin in earnest. Although the physical structure of the E-block was largely completed between 2017 and 2018, it had remained idle for years, raising concerns about the potential waste of public resources until the recent intervention allowed for its formal opening. The commencement of school activities is anticipated to act as a major catalyst for economic growth within the Nakpayili area and the wider Nanumba South District. To accommodate the influx of students and staff, the government has already initiated supplementary infrastructure projects, including the construction of on-site dormitories and a dining hall. These additions are expected to be finished within five months, further stabilizing the school's operations and ensuring that the transition from a dormant building to a thriving educational institution is permanent and sustainable.

MP Nikyema Billa Alamzy Secures 3,800 Furniture Units to Bolster Education in Kassena-Nankana West
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MP Nikyema Billa Alamzy Secures 3,800 Furniture Units to Bolster Education in Kassena-Nankana West

Hon. Nikyema Billa Alamzy, Member of Parliament for Chiana-Paga, has spearheaded a major initiative to tackle the acute furniture shortage in the Kassena-Nankana West District. In a collaborative effort with the District Chief Executive (DCE), Hon. Stephen Aeke Akurugo, the MP announced the procurement of 3,800 additional pieces of furniture through the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund). This commitment follows the immediate distribution of hundreds of desks and chairs to local schools, marking a significant step toward improving the learning environment for thousands of students in the region. The initial distribution included 900 dual desks, 40 hexagonal tables, and 240 chairs, all funded by the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF). Hon. Akurugo clarified that the district prioritizes educational infrastructure, allocating 10% of the DACF specifically for school furniture to ensure students have a conducive atmosphere for study. Madam Mary Magdalene Wompakia, the District Director of Education, welcomed the intervention, acknowledging that the persistent shortage of seating has long been a significant barrier to effective teaching and learning across the district. Beyond the furniture distribution, the developmental efforts included the commissioning of a new classroom block at Boania and the announcement of a diaspora-funded project to construct further classroom facilities. Amidst these infrastructure gains, Hon. Alamzy addressed the labor climate, urging striking teachers to return to the classroom while negotiations with the government continue, emphasizing the importance of student welfare. The day’s activities concluded with a social inclusion gesture, as donations were made to persons with disabilities (PWDs), underscoring a holistic approach to community development in the Chiana-Paga constituency.

Staff of the two institutions after the donation
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Fon Group Donates 6,000 Exercise Books to GETFund to Support Basic Education in Deprived Communities

The Fon Group has officially donated 6,000 exercise books to the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) as part of a targeted effort to improve access to educational materials in underserved regions. Presented on September 9, 2026, the donation is integrated into GETFund’s Education Financing and Partnership Initiative, a program specifically designed to address resource shortages in basic schools across Ghana. This contribution aims to alleviate the burden on parents and schools in deprived communities, ensuring that pupils have the essential stationery required for their daily studies. During the handover ceremony, GETFund Administrator Paul Adjei lauded the Fon Group for its proactive approach to corporate social responsibility. He highlighted that such contributions are vital for the success of the national education agenda, particularly in reaching children who might otherwise fall behind due to a lack of basic supplies. Fredrick Osafo Ntim, Founder of the Fon Group, joined by General Manager Emmanuel Osei Ntim, reiterated the company's commitment to the sector, stating that private sector involvement is not just beneficial but necessary for the holistic development of Ghana’s youth and the improvement of educational standards nationwide. This partnership between the Fon Group and GETFund serves as a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to mobilize non-governmental resources for public education. By focusing on deprived communities, the initiative directly supports the goal of providing quality, inclusive education for all. Moving forward, the Fon Group has pledged to maintain its support for educational development, signaling a long-term interest in collaborative projects that enhance the learning environment for Ghanaian students and strengthen the country’s academic infrastructure.

Ghanaian Academic Leaders Drive Digital Transformation Initiatives Across Universities and Libraries
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Ghanaian Academic Leaders Drive Digital Transformation Initiatives Across Universities and Libraries

Higher education leaders in Ghana are intensifying calls for a digital-first approach to academic life, emphasizing that both institutional infrastructure and student mindsets must evolve to meet modern challenges. At recent major academic gatherings, including the 42nd Annual General Meeting of University Librarians in Kumasi and KAAF University’s latest matriculation ceremony, officials stressed that technology is no longer an optional accessory but the foundation of contemporary learning and research. These developments signal a coordinated effort to align the nation’s universities with global standards while preparing graduates for an increasingly competitive job market. During the conference of University Librarians Ghana, academic experts argued that traditional libraries must transcend their roles as mere book repositories. Professor Isaac Boateng underscored the necessity for libraries to become dynamic hubs of knowledge cultivation and local content engagement, rather than simple storage spaces. Supporting this vision, Dr. Theresa Adu highlighted the critical need for inter-library collaboration to expand resource access, urging librarians to adopt resilient leadership and demonstrate their tangible impact on academic success through open access and improved research communication. Complementing this institutional push, KAAF University Vice Chancellor Professor Alhassan Musah has challenged the next generation of scholars to mirror this digital adaptability. Addressing approximately 1,750 newly admitted students, Professor Musah emphasized that thriving in the evolving job market requires an entrepreneurial mindset and a mastery of innovation. He noted that while technological proficiency is vital for the modern workforce, it must be anchored by discipline and character, which remain essential for professional success regardless of technological shifts. The combined message from library leaders and university administrators reflects a broader shift in Ghana's educational landscape toward functional and strategic modernization. By integrating digital transformation into the fabric of campus life—from the way research is curated to how students approach career development—Ghanaian universities are positioning themselves as proactive players in the global digital age. These efforts aim to create a resilient and technologically adept academic community capable of driving national development under the current administration.

Eric Opoku (2nd right), Minister for Food and Agriculture, presenting a set of the equipment to Albert Appiah Amoakoh (2nd from left), Principal, Kwadaso College of Agriculture, while Dong Wan Woo (right), KOICA Country Director, and Aurore Rusiga (3rd from left), Country Director, WFP look on
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WFP and KOICA Empower Five Ghanaian Agricultural Colleges with $500,000 Agritech Donation

The World Food Programme (WFP), in partnership with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), has officially handed over agritech equipment valued at $500,000 to five prominent Colleges of Agriculture across Ghana. This significant investment is designed to revolutionize agricultural education by integrating modern technology into the curriculum of Damongo, Ohawu, Ejura, Kwadaso, and Wenchi Colleges of Agriculture. The initiative, themed ‑Strengthening agricultural education for a digital future,‑ seeks to bridge the gap between traditional farming methods and the data-driven demands of modern global agriculture. The donated suite of equipment includes advanced tools such as drones, moisture meters, soil testers, and greenhouse environmental control kits. Additionally, the colleges received Internet of Things (IoT) sensor kits and automated weather stations. These technologies are intended to provide students and agricultural professionals with hands-on experience in precision farming, allowing for better decision-making and increased productivity. By equipping these institutions with high-tech gear, the partnership aims to transform the learning environment from purely theoretical to a practical, technology-led experience. Speaking at the handover ceremony, the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, underscored the importance of this initiative as a vital investment in the nation's future. He emphasized that preparing graduates with digital literacy is essential for modernizing Ghana’s agricultural sector and ensuring it remains competitive. WFP Country Director Aurore Rusiga echoed these sentiments, highlighting the transformative potential of digital tools in helping farmers overcome contemporary challenges. KOICA representative Dong Wan Woo further noted that the collaboration focuses on the economic empowerment of Ghanaian youth through digitalization, which is a critical pillar for long-term food security. The impact of the donation was welcomed by educators on the ground, with Albert Appiah Amoakoh, the Principal of Kwadaso College, commending the initiative for its role in linking classroom theories with real-world application. As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, these five colleges are now positioned to serve as hubs for digital innovation, producing a new generation of "agri-preneurs" capable of leveraging technology to boost yields and enhance the resilience of Ghana’s food systems. This partnership marks a strategic step toward a more sustainable and technologically advanced agricultural landscape for the country.

Professor Ben Q. Honyenuga Urges Women Engineers to Lead Ghana’s Sustainable Development Drive
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Professor Ben Q. Honyenuga Urges Women Engineers to Lead Ghana’s Sustainable Development Drive

Professor Ben Q. Honyenuga, Vice-Chancellor of the Ho Technical University (HTU), has called on women engineers across Ghana to take a more active role in driving the nation’s sustainable development. Speaking at the fifth edition of the "WinEAffair," organized by Women in Engineering Ghana (WinE Ghana), Professor Honyenuga highlighted the critical necessity for innovation and integrity within the sector. Under the theme "Engineering a Sustainable Future: Women Leading the Way," he emphasized that the capability of women to address national challenges is essential for achieving long-term progress and environmental stewardship. During his address, the Vice-Chancellor urged participants to look beyond their professional titles and focus on delivering practical, ethical, and inclusive solutions to societal issues. He argued that sustainable engineering must be community-centered, warning that technical decisions made in isolation can have unintended social consequences. By prioritizing innovation and community impact, Professor Honyenuga suggested that women engineers could bridge the gap between theoretical expertise and the real-world needs of the Ghanaian population. Addressing the professional landscape, Professor Honyenuga encouraged young women to actively dismantle gender stereotypes that persist in the engineering fields. He stressed the importance of building robust professional networks and fostering mentor-mentee relationships to navigate career challenges. According to the Vice-Chancellor, fostering a culture of leadership and integrity is vital for ensuring that women are not only present in the industry but are actively leading projects and influencing policy in all engineering sectors. The fifth WinEAffair serves as a platform to empower female professionals and students, highlighting the growing recognition of gender diversity as a catalyst for industrial growth. As Ghana continues to seek sustainable infrastructure and energy solutions, the call for inclusive engineering underscores a broader national shift toward leveraging all available human capital. Professor Honyenuga’s remarks conclude that the future of Ghana's infrastructure depends on a diverse workforce committed to ethical standards and the relentless pursuit of innovative excellence.