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.

UniMAC Lecturer Zakaria Tanko Musah Outlines Legal Safeguards for Journalists Against Defamation
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UniMAC Lecturer Zakaria Tanko Musah Outlines Legal Safeguards for Journalists Against Defamation

Zakaria Tanko Musah, a legal practitioner and lecturer at the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC), has called on journalists to remain fearless in their pursuit of public interest stories despite the lingering threat of defamation lawsuits. Speaking on the JoyNews legal affairs program, 'The Law', Musah asserted that Ghana's defamation laws are not designed to act as a muzzle on robust investigative reporting. Instead, he argued that the legal framework provides significant protections for journalists who demonstrate a steadfast commitment to professional ethics and responsible standards of practice. According to Musah, the fear of litigation should not paralyze the media, as the law recognizes several viable defenses for those who follow proper protocols prior to publication. He explained that if a journalist can demonstrate they conducted a thorough verification of facts and acted without malice, they stand on firm legal ground. The lecturer emphasized that the courts are increasingly mindful of the media's indispensable role in a thriving democracy. Consequently, judicial bodies often take into account the efforts made by journalists to adhere to the tenets of responsible journalism when adjudicating claims of reputational damage. Musah's insights highlight a critical educational bridge between legal theory and media practice in Ghana. By following established protocols—such as seeking rejoinders and cross-referencing sensitive information—journalists can effectively insulate themselves from liability while serving the public's right to know. This perspective underscores a broader movement within the Ghanaian media landscape to professionalize the industry through legal literacy, ensuring that the watchdog role of the press is maintained without compromising individual rights to reputation.

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu Unveils Revised Curriculum Introducing AI and Robotics to Basic Schools
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Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu Unveils Revised Curriculum Introducing AI and Robotics to Basic Schools

Ghana is set to transform its educational landscape with the introduction of a revised national curriculum that integrates Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, coding, and electronics at the basic school level. Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, announced the initiative, highlighting it as a pivotal move to bolster digital literacy from the foundational stages of learning. The National Curriculum Review Committee is expected to submit its final report within two weeks, paving the way for an official launch that aims to equip the next generation with future-ready skills and technical proficiency. Beyond technical skills, the curriculum overhaul emphasizes practical life skills and the cultivation of ethical values within early childhood education. Mr. Iddrisu noted that these reforms are designed to align the Ghanaian workforce with global technological trends and local economic needs. By embedding electronics and AI into the syllabus, the government intends to foster innovation and ensure that young graduates are prepared for the demands of the modern employment market. The Minister further encouraged tertiary institutions to reassess their academic programs to ensure they complement these foundational changes and address the country's evolving professional requirements. While the announcement signals a progressive shift toward modernization, the Minister also addressed pressing challenges within the education sector, specifically the rising trend of indiscipline and vandalism in senior high schools. He strongly condemned recent incidents, such as the destruction of CCTV cameras at Prempeh College, describing such acts as detrimental to the educational environment. Mr. Iddrisu called for a collective effort to instill discipline, emphasizing that the success of the new curriculum depends on a conducive and respectful atmosphere for learning. The integration of AI and robotics into basic education marks a significant milestone in Ghana's drive toward a digital-first economy. As the nation awaits the final committee report, the focus remains on ensuring that these ambitious reforms are effectively implemented across all regions. By bridging the gap between traditional learning and contemporary technology, the government aims to position Ghanaian students as competitive players in the global digital landscape, ultimately driving national growth and innovation.

Speaker Bagbin Pledges Support for UBIDS Growth as University Secures Pre-Bar Programme Approval
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Speaker Bagbin Pledges Support for UBIDS Growth as University Secures Pre-Bar Programme Approval

The University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (UBIDS) has reached a major milestone in its academic expansion, receiving official approval to run a one-year pre-Bar programme while garnering high-level support from the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin. Speaking at a recent graduation ceremony, the Speaker lauded the institution for its resilience and steady growth despite significant infrastructural hurdles. This endorsement comes as the university solidifies its position as a hub for professional training in Northern Ghana, graduating 70 law students and 298 postgraduate students during the latest session, affirming its commitment to academic excellence and professionalism. Vice-Chancellor Professor Emmanuel Kanchebe Derbile announced that UBIDS is now among 19 institutions recognized by the General Legal Council under the Legal Education Act, 2026, to implement the pre-Bar initiative. This development is expected to significantly lower barriers for aspiring legal professionals in the region and enhance access to professional training. The university’s law faculty has already demonstrated strong academic performance, with 28 out of 42 candidates from its first cohort successfully advancing to further legal studies. Speaker Bagbin echoed the importance of these reforms, advocating for a legal education system that removes unnecessary obstacles for students while maintaining rigorous professional standards. Addressing the university's "winner" spirit, Speaker Bagbin acknowledged the institutional struggles with inadequate facilities but assured the management of forthcoming government intervention. He revealed plans for seed funding to assist distressed public universities, including UBIDS, to help bridge the infrastructure gap and alleviate financial pressures. Furthermore, the Speaker highlighted strategic partnerships, such as a collaboration with the Medical University of Ajman, to bolster academic offerings. These initiatives are part of a broader vision to establish a School of Medical Sciences and a robust School of Law, ensuring the university meets the diverse educational needs of the country. The graduation of nearly 300 postgraduate students further underscores UBIDS's growing influence in the higher education landscape. As the institution prepares to launch its new legal and medical programmes, the promised financial and administrative support from Parliament and the executive will be critical to its success. By expanding access to professional education and addressing historical infrastructure deficits, UBIDS is poised to play a transformative role in the socio-economic development of Northern Ghana and the nation at large.

Prof. Edward Wiafe Debrah Advocates for Science-Driven Conservation to Secure Africa's Future
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Prof. Edward Wiafe Debrah Advocates for Science-Driven Conservation to Secure Africa's Future

Professor Edward Wiafe Debrah, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor of the University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD), has called for an urgent shift toward science-driven conservation to protect Africa’s biodiversity. Delivering his inaugural lecture, Prof. Debrah warned that the continent’s accelerating loss of natural species is not merely an environmental crisis but a direct threat to food security, climate resilience, and sustainable economic growth. He argued that ecosystem protection must be elevated to a national development priority, requiring immediate attention from policymakers and stakeholders across the continent. The lecture underscored the intense pressures currently facing Africa’s ecosystems, including habitat destruction, climate change, and industrial pollution. Drawing on his extensive research into endangered primates, Prof. Debrah emphasized that successful conservation must balance economic development with environmental stewardship. He advocated for community-centered approaches, noting that local populations must be integrated into the scientific and decision-making processes to ensure that conservation efforts are both practical and sustainable. To address these challenges, the Professor called for a robust collaboration between governments, academic institutions, and local communities. He stressed that political commitment is essential to integrating scientific evidence into environmental policy. The event, attended by university leadership and environmental experts, concluded with a call for a unified front to safeguard the continent’s biological heritage, positioning science at the heart of Africa’s sustainable development agenda.

MOGA 2003 Mentorship Summit Empowers Over 1,700 Mfantsiman Girls’ SHS Students
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MOGA 2003 Mentorship Summit Empowers Over 1,700 Mfantsiman Girls’ SHS Students

The Mfantsiman Old Girls’ Association (MOGA) 2003 Year Group has organized a comprehensive mentorship and empowerment summit for over 1,700 first-year students at Mfantsiman Girls’ Senior High School. Held on July 5, 2023, the event was designed to equip the new students with essential life skills, career guidance, and the moral fortitude needed to navigate the challenges of secondary education and adolescence. The initiative highlights the growing role of alumni associations in contributing to the holistic development of students in Ghana’s second-cycle institutions. During the summit, several accomplished professionals from the 2003 year group shared insights on identity, self-worth, and disciplined decision-making. Ms. Abena Yalley, a corporate lawyer, urged the students to be deliberate in their choices, emphasizing that discipline is the foundation of academic and personal success. She particularly cautioned the young women against the dangers of early sexual activity and the negative influence of peer pressure, which can often derail promising futures. Communication professional Mable Madjikie Madjie further expanded on these themes by discussing the importance of self-identity, encouraging the girls to recognize their inherent value and resist the urge to conform to external pressures. The impact of technology and character development also took center stage during the sessions. HR professional Priscilla Akonor spoke extensively on character integrity, noting that while academic qualifications are important, it is one's character that ensures long-term professional and personal growth. The speakers also addressed the modern challenge of social media, advising students to use digital platforms productively rather than allowing them to become sources of distraction or negative comparison. The students were encouraged to cultivate positive relationships that align with their educational goals and personal values. Mrs. Roselyn Ayorkor Sowah, the Headmistress of Mfantsiman Girls’ SHS, expressed profound gratitude to the MOGA 2003 year group for their commitment to giving back to their alma mater. She noted that such interventions are vital in nurturing responsible young women who can uphold the school’s high standards of excellence. By bridging the gap between current students and successful alumni, the summit provided the first-year cohort with relatable role models and a clear roadmap for their three-year journey at the school and beyond.

Lancaster University Ghana Launches ‘Ready to Scale’ Business Innovation Hub to Empower Student Entrepreneurs
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Lancaster University Ghana Launches ‘Ready to Scale’ Business Innovation Hub to Empower Student Entrepreneurs

Lancaster University Ghana (LUG) has officially launched the “Ready to Scale Business Innovation Hub Programme,” a strategic initiative designed to nurture the next generation of student entrepreneurs. Unveiled by Dr. Gloria Sraha, Head of the Business Studies Department, the programme aims to transform innovative student ideas into sustainable, commercially viable businesses. The launch took place during the university’s “Brunch with Corporates” event, which served as a high-level networking platform bringing together academia, industry leaders, government representatives, and the student body to discuss the future of Ghanaian entrepreneurship. The “Ready to Scale” initiative is built on a framework of practical training, intensive mentorship, and direct industry support. By bridging the gap between classroom innovation and real-world commercial impact, the programme seeks to equip students with the essential skills needed to navigate a competitive global economy. A cornerstone of this initiative is the “Quadruple Helix” approach, which emphasizes deep-rooted collaboration between academia, the private sector, government agencies, and local communities to foster an ecosystem conducive to sustainable growth. During the unveiling, Dr. Sraha highlighted the critical need for universities to evolve into active catalysts for economic change. She emphasized that in an era dominated by rapid technological shifts and a volatile job market, graduates must possess an entrepreneurial mindset to remain resilient and relevant. The hub is designed as a practical response to this demand, moving beyond theoretical education to provide a launchpad for innovation that drives tangible economic outcomes. The success of the Business Innovation Hub will be measured by more than just the number of startups established; it will be evaluated based on its broader impact on job creation and community transformation. By fostering a robust culture of entrepreneurship, Lancaster University Ghana aims to contribute significantly to Ghana’s national economic development, preparing its students to lead industries and create employment opportunities in an increasingly complex professional landscape.

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Dr. Williams Kwasi Peprah Elevated to Full Professor of Finance at Andrews University

Dr. Williams Kwasi Peprah has achieved a significant academic milestone with his promotion to the rank of Full Professor of Finance at the Andrews University School of Business Administration in Michigan, USA. This elevation recognizes his sustained excellence in teaching, research, and leadership within the global academic community. Professor Peprah’s journey from Ghana to one of the highest ranks in international academia serves as a testament to his dedication to scholarship and professional development, highlighting a career defined by both intellectual rigor and practical expertise. His academic foundation was laid in Ghana, where he earned degrees from Valley View University and the University of Ghana before completing his Ph.D. at the Adventist University of the Philippines. Beyond his academic credentials, Professor Peprah holds numerous prestigious professional qualifications in finance, accounting, and management. Before transitioning into his highly successful career in higher education, he gained extensive experience in corporate finance, a background that continues to enrich his pedagogical approach with practical, real-world insights that bridge the gap between theory and industry practice. At Andrews University, Professor Peprah is celebrated for his rigorous teaching style and commitment to student mentorship, which earned him the prestigious Graduate Teaching Excellence Award. His influence extends beyond the classroom through his extensive research in finance, corporate governance, and sustainable development. His work has been published internationally, contributing significantly to both policy discussions and organizational practices. Additionally, he remains a respected voice in his home country, frequently providing expert financial analysis and economic commentary on various media platforms in Ghana, thereby impacting public understanding of complex economic issues. The promotion to Full Professor represents the culmination of years of dedicated service and rigorous scholarship. It reflects the high regard in which he is held by his peers and the positive influence he continues to exert in academia and beyond. As he steps into this new chapter, Professor Peprah continues to inspire a new generation of scholars and leaders, demonstrating the power of ethical leadership and critical thinking in the field of finance. His achievement stands as a source of pride for the Ghanaian academic community and a beacon of inspiration for scholars worldwide.

Prof. Ransford Gyampo Urges Universities to Lead National Unity and Policy Continuity for Sustainable Development
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Prof. Ransford Gyampo Urges Universities to Lead National Unity and Policy Continuity for Sustainable Development

Professor Ransford Gyampo, CEO of the Ghana Shippers Authority, has warned that political polarization and the resulting lack of policy continuity are significant barriers to Ghana's sustainable development. Speaking at the 8th Biennial Social Science Conference at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), he emphasized that meaningful progress requires a shift toward social cohesion and a unified national vision that transcends partisan shifts. He noted that in a highly polarized environment, development efforts are frequently undermined by a lack of long-term consistency, preventing the country from achieving lasting socio-economic goals. Gyampo highlighted the detrimental effects of "policy discontinuity," where changes in government often lead to the abandonment of critical projects and a disruption of national priorities. He argued that this cycle forces the nation to start over with every change in administration rather than building upon existing foundations. This lack of a cohesive long-term vision, according to Gyampo, not only wastes resources but also creates a sense of instability that discourages the acceptance of new policies and innovations by the general public. A central theme of Gyampo's address was the evolving role of higher education in bridging these societal divides. He called on universities to transition from traditional "knowledge producers" into active "civic engines" of development. By engaging directly with communities and acting as facilitators of public dialogue, academic institutions can help foster the trust necessary for the acceptance of development policies. Gyampo advocated for a collaborative framework—incorporating academia, government, industry, and civil society—to ensure that solutions are relevant and inclusive. In his closing remarks, Gyampo underscored that trust is the cornerstone of successful policy implementation. He warned that without social trust and a collaborative approach, even the most innovative policies could face resistance from a skeptical public. He urged universities to play a more active role in building a more inclusive society by promoting dialogue and societal trust. By fostering an environment where all stakeholders are engaged, Ghana can overcome the hurdles of polarization and establish a stable path toward sustainable growth.

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu Warns University Councils Against Management Interference and Announces Policy Reforms
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Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu Warns University Councils Against Management Interference and Announces Policy Reforms

Minister for Education Haruna Iddrisu has issued a stern warning to the governing councils of public universities, cautioning them against encroaching on the day-to-day administrative functions of university management. Speaking during the commissioning of a new 200-bed hostel at the Wisconsin International University College in the Ashanti Region, the Minister emphasized that such interference is detrimental to institutional performance and effective governance. He underscored that the government would not support any council actions that undermine the established roles of university management, calling instead for a collegiate atmosphere focused on institutional growth. The Minister’s address highlighted the necessity of a clear separation of powers within higher education institutions. According to Iddrisu, while governing councils play a vital role in setting strategic direction and policy, their direct involvement in daily operations creates unnecessary friction and hinders academic progress. He advocated for a collaborative and respectful relationship between councils and management, urging all parties to respect institutional autonomy. This push for governance reform is intended to ensure that universities function effectively and focus on their core mandate of academic excellence without the distractions of internal power struggles. In a significant policy announcement during the same event, Minister Iddrisu revealed that the government has amended the Education Regulatory Bodies Act, 2020. This amendment is set to grant private universities formal representation on the governing board of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC). The Minister noted that this move recognizes the indispensable role private institutions play in expanding access to higher education for students who may not find placement in public universities. By including private sector voices in the regulatory framework, the government aims to create a more inclusive, balanced, and representative educational landscape. Beyond governance and representation, the Minister challenged all tertiary institutions to prioritize the quality and relevance of their academic offerings. He stressed the importance of aligning curricula with the evolving needs of the global workforce, specifically mentioning the need to equip students with skills in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI). By focusing on academic productivity and modern technology, the Minister concluded, Ghana’s universities can better contribute to the nation’s socio-economic development and ensure graduates are prepared for the challenges of a competitive international market.

Parliament's Education Committee Flags 'Exorbitant' Distance Learning Fees at Ghana's Public Universities
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Parliament's Education Committee Flags 'Exorbitant' Distance Learning Fees at Ghana's Public Universities

The Parliamentary Select Committee on Education has expressed grave concerns regarding the high cost of distance education programs in Ghana, characterizing the current fee structures as potentially exploitative. During a formal visit to the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) headquarters, Dr. Fred Kyei Asamoah, a member of the committee, highlighted a worrying disparity between the fees charged for distance learning and those for traditional, on-campus programs. The committee observed that distance education programs, which typically require fewer physical resources, are often priced significantly higher than regular programs, suggesting that universities may be prioritizing these offerings as a primary source of revenue rather than as a tool for accessible education. Beyond the financial burden on students, the committee raised alarms about the systemic incentives these high fees create. Members suggested that the lack of fee regulation for distance learning programs encourages public universities to prioritize these costly alternatives over traditional enrollment. This trend, they argue, risks turning tertiary education into a profit-driven venture that exploits students seeking flexible learning options. There is also a growing concern that the expansion of distance programs has not been matched by a focus on quality, with some committee members, including Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, pointing out that many graduates of these programs face significant challenges in the job market due to poor alignment between course content and industry needs. In response to these criticisms, the Director-General of GTEC, Professor Ahmed Jinapor, clarified the commission's current regulatory limitations. He explained that distance education fees currently operate under a market-based system and fall outside GTEC's direct jurisdiction, meaning the commission lacks the legal mandate to cap or control these costs. Prof. Jinapor also echoed the committee's concerns regarding the relevance of certain academic programs, noting that some universities continue to replicate international curricula that do not address local economic realities or job market demands. He stressed that without legislative intervention or a change in policy from Parliament, GTEC’s ability to curb these high costs remains restricted. To address these challenges, the Parliamentary Committee and GTEC are advocating for a more robust framework of accountability and quality assurance. This includes a proposal for GTEC to implement a formal ranking system for university programs, which would provide transparency regarding the success rates and market relevance of various courses. The goal is to ensure that students are receiving value for their investment and that the education sector effectively contributes to national development. Both parties emphasized the need for closer collaboration to reform the sector, ensuring that distance education becomes a viable, affordable, and high-quality path for Ghanaian students rather than a financial burden. Moving forward, the committee's findings are expected to inform potential legislative reviews aimed at granting GTEC more authority to regulate fee structures and enhance educational standards across the country.

University of Ghana’s Prof. Isaac Wiafe Calls for Agile AI Curriculum Approval and Local Data Infrastructure to Secure Ghana’s Digital Sovereignty
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University of Ghana’s Prof. Isaac Wiafe Calls for Agile AI Curriculum Approval and Local Data Infrastructure to Secure Ghana’s Digital Sovereignty

Professor Isaac Wiafe, a prominent computer scientist at the University of Ghana, has issued a sharp critique of the current barriers hindering the nation’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) progress. Speaking at an inaugural lecture in Accra, Prof. Wiafe highlighted that systemic delays in the approval of AI-related curricula and a lack of local-language data infrastructure are stifling the effectiveness of Ghana’s National AI Strategy. He warned that without urgent reform, the country risks becoming digitally dependent on external powers, which could lead to the marginalization of indigenous knowledge and the homogenization of Ghanaian culture through foreign-biased algorithms. A primary concern raised by Prof. Wiafe is the bureaucratic bottleneck at the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC). He lamented that the slow pace of curriculum approval often results in academic programs becoming obsolete before they are even implemented in classrooms, given the lightning speed of global technological advancement. To combat this, he urged GTEC to adopt more agile quality assurance mechanisms that can keep pace with the evolution of AI. Prof. Wiafe emphasized that universities must take a more proactive role in shaping AI discussions to ensure that education remains relevant and prepares students for a fast-changing global landscape. Beyond academic structures, the lecture addressed the critical need for "local content" within Ghana’s technological ecosystem. Prof. Wiafe pointed out that the current National AI Strategy lacks sufficient emphasis on local-language data, which is essential for making AI tools useful in vital sectors such as health, education, and agriculture. He advocated for a government-backed local-language policy to support research institutions in building robust data infrastructures. By prioritizing datasets that reflect Ghanaian languages and cultural realities, the nation can ensure that AI developments are inclusive and serve the specific needs of its citizens rather than relying solely on foreign datasets and priorities. Highlighting active efforts to bridge this gap, the Professor noted the University of Ghana’s partnership with Google Research Africa on ‘Project Euphonia,’ an initiative aimed at improving speech recognition for diverse local languages. Vice-Chancellor Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo commended these contributions, noting their alignment with local socio-economic realities. Prof. Wiafe concluded by calling for a human-centered transformation of AI models that prioritizes societal wellbeing and cultural preservation. Achieving technological sovereignty, he argued, requires a collective effort to build a resilient, locally-grounded AI ecosystem that safeguards Ghana’s digital future.

Kwaku Asare to Adutwum: Don't blame degrees, blame the economy that fails to absorb graduates
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Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum’s Critique of ‘Degrees to Nowhere’ Ignites National Debate on Education and Economic Reform

The debate over the relevance of higher education in Ghana has reached a fever pitch following recent comments by former Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum. Speaking on the Konnected Minds Podcast, Dr. Adutwum characterized several university programs as "degrees to nowhere," specifically targeting Development Studies at the University for Development Studies and the BA in Education (Non-Teaching) at the University of Ghana. He argued that these curricula fail to align with the country's national manpower requirements, leading to a surplus of graduates who lack the skills required by the current labor market. Dr. Adutwum called for a comprehensive review of university offerings, urging the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) to enforce regulations that prioritize market-driven disciplines and strategic educational planning, citing India’s successful IT sector as a potential blueprint for Ghana. However, Dr. Adutwum’s assessment has faced significant pushback from governance experts and education advocates who argue that the problem lies with the economy rather than the degrees themselves. Prof. Kwaku Asare, a prominent governance expert, contended that "no degree is useless in an economy that works," asserting that graduate unemployment is primarily a symptom of a stagnant political and economic structure that fails to absorb talent. Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the unemployment crisis is a direct result of poor leadership. These critics argue that instead of dismissing academic disciplines, the government should focus on systemic reforms that stimulate job creation and improve political accountability. The conversation has also sparked a philosophical defense of the liberal arts and social sciences. Kofi Asare, Executive Director of Africa Education Watch, emphasized that university education should be evaluated based on the practical competencies and transferable skills it provides—such as critical thinking and entrepreneurship—rather than immediate job placement. Similarly, defenders of Development Studies argue that the program is a vital "blueprint for nation-building," essential for the social engineering required for long-term national progress. They warn against a "colonial mindset" that views education solely as a tool for job acquisition, advocating for a broader perspective that recognizes the importance of producing citizens capable of driving societal growth and community building. Ultimately, the discourse highlights a pressing need for a middle ground where academic institutions and national planners collaborate more effectively. While there is a consensus on the need for universities to be more accountable and for curricula to be enhanced with essential skills, experts believe this must be coupled with an economic environment that fosters growth. Moving forward, the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission and other stakeholders are being urged to conduct a national labor needs assessment. Such a measure would ensure that the tertiary education system not only fulfills the aspirations of students but also serves as a robust engine for Ghana’s national development goals.