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.

Paramount Chief Bonaba Salifu Alemyaarum Calls for Teacher Training College to Drive Development in Bongo District
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Paramount Chief Bonaba Salifu Alemyaarum Calls for Teacher Training College to Drive Development in Bongo District

Bonaba Salifu Alemyaarum, the Paramount Chief of the Bongo Traditional Area, has formally appealed to the development advocacy group Alagumgube to spearhead a campaign for the establishment of a teacher training college within the Bongo District. This call to action, made during a recent monthly meeting, seeks to address the educational infrastructure deficit in the region while simultaneously creating sustainable employment opportunities for the local youth. The Paramount Chief highlighted that such an institution would significantly reduce the barriers students face when seeking higher education within the district and the broader Upper East Region. During the engagement, the Paramount Chief praised Alagumgube for its proactive role in regional development, specifically referencing the group's ongoing advocacy for an airport in the Upper East Region. He emphasized that the proposed teacher training college would complement existing efforts to transform Bongo into a hub for human resource development. The chief's vision rests on the belief that localized tertiary education is essential for retaining talent and ensuring that the youth are equipped with professional skills that contribute directly to the community’s socioeconomic growth. In addition to the educational focus, the meeting provided a platform for updates on other critical infrastructure projects, including healthcare. Bonaba Alemyaarum shared progress regarding a new district hospital planned for Gurigo, which is being developed in collaboration with international partners from South Korea. These combined efforts in education and healthcare underscore a broader strategic priority for the Bongo District to improve the living standards of its residents. The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration between traditional authorities and advocacy groups to ensure these developmental goals are realized through persistent engagement with government and development partners.

Mfantsipim @150 committee calls on Osabarima Kwesi Atta II ahead of historic anniversary celebrations
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Mfantsipim School Sesquicentennial Committee Briefs Paramount Chief on 150th Anniversary Plans

Mfantsipim School, recognized as Ghana’s first secondary institution, has officially initiated high-level consultations for its upcoming 150th-anniversary celebrations. The planning committee, under the leadership of Kenneth Shelton Aikins, recently visited Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II, the Paramount Chief of the Oguaa Traditional Area, to present the strategic roadmap for the school’s sesquicentennial. Established on April 3, 1876, Mfantsipim is preparing for a historic milestone that celebrates a century and a half of educational leadership and academic excellence in Cape Coast. The anniversary festivities are scheduled to culminate in a grand durbar on November 14, 2026. A central feature of the upcoming program is the “Aseda Durbar,” a thanksgiving event that will bring together various historic secondary schools in the Cape Coast enclave. This initiative is intended to celebrate the shared legacy of these institutions and their collective impact on Ghana's development. By engaging with the Paramount Chief, the committee aims to ensure the celebrations are deeply integrated with the cultural fabric of the Oguaa Traditional Area. Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II expressed his enthusiastic support for the anniversary, pledging the traditional council's commitment to the success of the event. The Chief highlighted the school's prestige and its vital contribution to the intellectual and social character of the region. Headmaster Ebenezer Aidoo thanked the Paramount Chief for his continuous patronage, noting that the school's prestige is bolstered by its strong relationship with traditional authorities and the local community. As the countdown to 2026 begins, the sesquicentennial is expected to serve as a rallying point for the global "Old Boy" network and the wider educational community. The celebrations will not only honor the school's past achievements as a pioneer in West African education but also provide a platform for future-looking developmental projects. With the endorsement of the local traditional leadership, the planning committee is now set to execute a series of events that will commemorate Mfantsipim’s enduring influence on Ghana’s national progress.

British Council Urges Shift Toward Language-Responsive Education to Boost Learning Outcomes
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British Council Urges Shift Toward Language-Responsive Education to Boost Learning Outcomes

The British Council has issued a call for the adoption of inclusive and context-sensitive language policies in education systems, emphasizing that the language of instruction is a critical factor in determining student success. In its recently updated position paper, the international organization argues that educational decisions regarding language must be deeply rooted in the unique social, cultural, political, and historical realities of each country. By prioritizing language-responsive approaches, the Council aims to address the barriers that often hinder learners who are taught in languages they do not fully understand, particularly in diverse or multilingual environments. Central to the British Council’s recommendation is the rejection of a one-size-fits-all model, especially concerning the rapid shift toward English-medium instruction in non-native speaking regions. The report stresses that for any language policy to be effective, it must be supported by adequate resources, including specially trained teachers and high-quality instructional materials. The Council advocates for evidence-based decisions that support literacy in languages familiar to the students, which serves as a foundational building block for academic achievement and cognitive development. The position paper highlights a significant risk associated with poorly planned transitions to English-only instruction. When schools switch to English too early or without proper preparation, it can lead to a decline in learning outcomes and exacerbate educational inequalities. The British Council suggests that maintaining strong instruction in local or familiar languages alongside English is not only beneficial for the students' cultural identity but also enhances their ability to eventually master English and other complex subjects in the curriculum. As global education systems strive to improve literacy rates and academic standards, the British Council’s advocacy serves as a timely reminder of the link between language and cognitive accessibility. Moving forward, the organization encourages policymakers to focus on flexible, multilingual strategies that empower both teachers and students. By aligning language policies with the lived experiences of learners, countries can create more equitable and effective educational environments that foster long-term success for all students.

Fire Guts House Master’s Office and Storeroom at Adonten Senior High School
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Fire Guts House Master’s Office and Storeroom at Adonten Senior High School

A significant fire outbreak at Adonten Senior High School has resulted in the destruction of key administrative and storage facilities, though prompt action by the Ghana National Fire Service prevented the blaze from consuming the entire campus. Firefighters from both the Aburi and Akropong Fire Stations were dispatched to the scene to battle the inferno, which was primarily localized within the school's science block. Despite the alarming nature of the incident, officials have confirmed that no casualties or injuries were recorded among the student body or faculty, as the fire was successfully contained before it could spread to adjacent dormitories or classrooms. The fire caused extensive damage to the House Master’s office and a nearby storeroom, both of which were completely gutted by the flames. According to reports from the scene, the fire consumed a wide array of educational items, including textbooks, student records, and other essential school supplies. Before the arrival of the professional firefighting teams, both staff members and students made courageous attempts to extinguish the flames using manual methods and available fire extinguishers, but the intensity of the blaze proved too much to handle without professional intervention, leading to the total loss of the contents within the affected rooms. Following the containment of the fire, the focus has now shifted to assessing the full extent of the financial loss and determining the primary cause of the outbreak. Investigations by the Ghana National Fire Service are currently ongoing to identify whether the fire was sparked by an electrical fault, an external environmental factor, or human error. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of fire safety protocols and the need for regular inspections of electrical systems within Ghana’s educational institutions to protect both human life and valuable academic infrastructure.

UBIDS LLB Students Petition Vice-Chancellor Over Omission of 33 Graduands from Final List
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UBIDS LLB Students Petition Vice-Chancellor Over Omission of 33 Graduands from Final List

Tension is mounting at the SD Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (UBIDS) as members of the LLB Class of 2026 have formally petitioned the Vice-Chancellor regarding the exclusion of 33 students from the final graduation list. The affected students, who claim to have met all academic requirements, are demanding immediate reinstatement to ensure they can participate in the upcoming graduation ceremony. The situation has created a sense of urgency on campus, as the students seek to resolve their status before the university’s academic calendar moves forward.According to the petition, the 33 omitted students had previously appeared on a preliminary list and had already proceeded to pay their graduation fees in good faith. They expressed shock and frustration upon finding their names missing from the final list, arguing that the omission is unjustified given their completed coursework and financial standings. The students highlighted that this exclusion is not merely a ceremonial issue but a professional crisis, as it threatens their eligibility for the pre-Bar course scheduled to begin in September 2026. Without proof of graduation, these aspiring lawyers face a significant delay in their legal education and career progression.UBIDS Registrar Dr. Job Asante has addressed the escalating situation, stating that the final graduation list was officially approved by the Academic Board on June 18, 2026. While the university stands by the integrity of its board-approved list, Dr. Asante emphasized the necessity of following strict institutional protocols to maintain the value of the degrees awarded. He explained that the university cannot bypass established academic standards but acknowledged the grievances raised by the LLB class, leading to a commitment for further review.To mitigate the crisis, the university administration has announced an emergency meeting to investigate the claims of the omitted students. Dr. Asante indicated that if errors are identified, a supplementary graduation list may be issued to accommodate those who were unfairly excluded. For the 33 students, the outcome of this administrative review is critical; they remain in a state of uncertainty as they wait for the university to provide a resolution that will allow them to proceed to the Ghana School of Law as planned.

GNACOPS Clarifies Ghana Education Service Graduation Ban Does Not Apply to Private Schools
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GNACOPS Clarifies Ghana Education Service Graduation Ban Does Not Apply to Private Schools

The Ghana National Council of Private Schools (GNACOPS) has provided essential clarification regarding the recent directive from the Ghana Education Service (GES) to suspend graduation ceremonies across pre-tertiary institutions. According to GNACOPS, the ban is specifically targeted at schools directly supervised by the GES—primarily public institutions—and does not extend to the private education sector. This clarification follows a period of uncertainty and concern among private school proprietors and parents who were unsure if the new restrictions would disrupt scheduled end-of-year celebrations for their wards. In a statement addressing the situation, GNACOPS emphasized that while private schools are not bound by this specific suspension, they are encouraged to exercise discretion. The Council has advised its members to ensure that graduation events are conducted with modesty and simplicity, aligning with existing educational regulations and the current economic climate. By maintaining a professional yet celebratory atmosphere, private schools can continue to recognize student achievements without contravening the spirit of the government's efforts to streamline school activities and maintain discipline. Furthermore, GNACOPS expressed its continued support for government initiatives aimed at enhancing discipline and reinforcing core educational values within the Ghanaian school system. However, the Council also highlighted the need for improved communication and collaboration between state agencies and private stakeholders. Moving forward, GNACOPS advocates for a more inclusive approach to policy implementation to ensure that all educational sectors remain well-informed and aligned with national standards, thereby avoiding public confusion and ensuring a consistent educational experience for all students across the country.

Atsiapa Memorial Methodist Basic School receives furniture donation from ASA Savings and Loans
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AMA, Private Sector Partners, and Alumni Drive Significant Infrastructure and Equipment Upgrades Across Ghanaian Schools

In a concerted effort to enhance the quality of education in Ghana, several public and private sector initiatives have delivered critical infrastructure and equipment to schools across the country. The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) spearheaded this movement by distributing 997 school desks to eight public schools within the metropolis. Procured through the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF), the furniture—which includes mono, dual, and hexagonal desks—is intended to alleviate chronic furniture shortages and provide a more dignified learning environment. Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey, who led the presentation, noted that the initiative aligns with a broader commitment to improve educational facilities, with the Assembly further utilizing its Internally Generated Fund (IGF) for school renovations including roofing and sanitation improvements. The distribution by the AMA targets schools across the Okaikoi South, Ashiedu Keteke, and Ablekuma South sub-metros, specifically benefiting institutions such as Bubiashie, Kaneshie, Ussher, Ga Mashie, Ayalolo, Korle Gonno, Mamprobi, and Ojoo public schools. Mayor Allotey emphasized that these interventions are part of a strategic 'Reset Agenda' aimed at modernizing public service delivery. The donation was welcomed by local representatives, including MP Alfred Nii Kotey Ashie, who highlighted the positive impact these desks will have on student concentration and academic performance. Beyond furniture, the Assembly also provided medical and logistical equipment to bolster public services within the capital. Parallel to government efforts, private organizations and alumni groups are filling critical gaps in educational resources. Fidelity Bank Ghana recently transformed the La-Bawaleshie Presby ‘2’ Basic School in Accra by refurbishing six classrooms and constructing new sanitation facilities as part of its 'Orange Impact Initiative.' Similarly, in Elmina, ASA Savings and Loans LTD addressed severe overcrowding at the Atsiapa Memorial Methodist Basic School. With a student population of 600 previously sharing only 180 dual desks, the company’s donation of additional desks and chairs provides immediate relief to a school also struggling with limited computer access and poor lighting. Specialized higher education has also seen significant boosts through individual philanthropy. At the University of Cape Coast (UCC), the School of Optometry and Vision Science received $8,000 worth of ophthalmic equipment from alumnus Abraham Gaitu. The donation, which includes ophthalmic units and visual acuity charts, was presented during a white coat ceremony for 73 students transitioning into clinical training. This contribution is vital for the school as it prepares for its 25th anniversary of optometry training, ensuring that future eye care professionals have access to modern diagnostic tools for hands-on learning. These collective interventions underscore the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach to solving Ghana's educational challenges. While the government continues to deploy funds through the DACF for basic infrastructure, the contributions of corporate entities and dedicated alumni remain essential for providing specialized equipment and urgent facility repairs. Together, these efforts are creating a more conducive atmosphere for teaching and learning, ensuring that students from basic schools to universities have the resources necessary to succeed in their academic pursuits.

Kenyasi Mmooho Circuit Triumphs at 5th GES and UMA-Subika Reading Festival in Asutifi North
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Kenyasi Mmooho Circuit Triumphs at 5th GES and UMA-Subika Reading Festival in Asutifi North

The Ghana Education Service (GES) in the Asutifi North district, in partnership with the Underground Mining Alliance (UMA) Subika, recently concluded its fifth annual reading festival competition. This literacy initiative, which marks the fourth year of UMA-Subika's sponsorship, is designed to enhance basic reading skills among students in the Ahafo Region. By fostering a competitive yet supportive environment, the festival aims to address foundational literacy deficits and promote a culture of academic excellence among basic school learners. The competition featured participants from eight local circuits who demonstrated their proficiency in both English and Twi language modules. Following a series of spirited contests, the Kenyasi Mmooho circuit emerged as the overall champion. To support their continued academic journey and encourage digital literacy, the winning circuit was awarded educational materials and tablets for digital learning. This annual event has become a cornerstone of the district's educational calendar, with past participants frequently gaining regional recognition for their improved literacy standards. Bertha Yeboah of UMA-Subika emphasized that the partnership represents a strategic shift in corporate social responsibility, moving toward sustainable community development through education. The initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4, which focuses on providing inclusive and equitable quality education. By equipping children with essential reading and comprehension skills, the alliance seeks to prepare the youth for future professional opportunities and long-term success within their communities. District Education Director Naomi Asantewaa praised the collaboration for its role in revitalizing teaching and learning in Asutifi North. She noted that the targeted intervention has significantly motivated teachers and provided students with modern tools to overcome literacy challenges. This partnership serves as a model for how corporate entities and government agencies can work together to improve educational outcomes and provide children with the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

CTVET Endorses GH Schools' 24-Hour Training Model to Enhance Skills Development and Support Ghana's Economy
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CTVET Endorses GH Schools' 24-Hour Training Model to Enhance Skills Development and Support Ghana's Economy

The Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET) has officially endorsed a pioneering 24-hour training model introduced by GH Schools. This initiative, designed to bolster skills development among Ghanaian youth, was highlighted during the institution's recent graduation ceremonies in Accra. Director-General of CTVET, Mr. Zakaria Sulemana, praised the model for its strategic alignment with the government’s proposed 24-hour economy policy, noting its potential to provide flexible learning pathways for both the unemployed and those currently in the workforce seeking to upgrade their skills. The endorsement comes at a critical time as Ghana grapples with significant youth unemployment, with approximately 1.5 million young people currently not engaged in employment, education, or training (NEET). During the 20th graduation ceremony, which celebrated over 200 graduates in fields such as Journalism, Media Arts, and Multimedia Production, Mr. Sulemana emphasized the urgent need for increased investment in technical and vocational education. He noted that the flexibility of the 24-hour model allows individuals to tailor their education around personal and professional commitments, thereby lowering the barrier to entry for essential technical training. Further reinforcing the school's mission, Leslie Addo Listowel, the Rector of GH Schools, emphasized during the 21st graduation ceremony at Achimota that the institution is focused on meeting rigorous industry standards rather than competing with rival vocational schools. He asserted that GH Schools distinguishes itself through a strict practical competence requirement, ensuring that every student demonstrates hands-on proficiency before advancing in their curriculum. This commitment to practical outcomes aims to ensure that graduates are immediately job-ready and capable of contributing to the media and technology sectors. The collaboration between GH Schools and CTVET signifies a growing shift toward more accessible and industry-aligned vocational training in Ghana. By providing a structure that accommodates various lifestyles and employment statuses, the institution seeks to empower a broader demographic of learners. As the government continues to promote a 24-hour economic framework, models like this are expected to serve as a blueprint for other technical institutions across the country, ultimately fostering a more skilled and resilient national workforce.

UPSA Inaugurates J.K. Horgle Transport and Logistics Centre to Drive Digital Transformation in Ghana's Transport Sector
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UPSA Inaugurates J.K. Horgle Transport and Logistics Centre to Drive Digital Transformation in Ghana's Transport Sector

The University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) has officially inaugurated the Joseph Kweku (J.K.) Horgle Transport and Logistics Centre, a strategic initiative designed to revolutionize training, research, and industry collaboration within Ghana's transport sector. Named after the industry luminary Dr. Joseph Kweku Horgle, the Centre aims to address the critical skills gap by bridging the divide between academic theory and industrial practice. This launch marks a significant step toward professionalizing the logistics workforce and enhancing Ghana's competitiveness as a regional logistics hub in West Africa. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the Deputy Minister of Transport, Mrs. Dorcas Affo-Toffey, challenged the new Centre to lead the charge in digital transformation and innovation. She emphasized that the integration of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and sustainable transport solutions, is essential for improving transport planning and management. The Deputy Minister highlighted the Centre's role as a strategic partner to the government, providing the research and policy insights necessary for effective national policy implementation and modernizing the sector's infrastructure. Vice-Chancellor of UPSA, Prof. John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor, underscored the Centre’s commitment to producing a skilled workforce capable of meeting the growing demands of the African logistics market. With the expansion of trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the demand for high-level logistics expertise has surged. The Centre will offer executive education, professional certifications, and specialized programs to ensure that Ghanaian professionals are well-prepared for these regional opportunities. Prof. Mawutor noted that the facility will serve as a hub for both practical training and high-level policy engagement. The Centre’s namesake, Dr. Joseph Kweku Horgle, expressed his dedication to improving standards within the industry, specifically focusing on road safety and the professionalization of driving. He advocated for formal education in the transport profession, arguing that recognizing the technical and safety requirements of logistics is vital for national development. By focusing on environmental sustainability and safety-conscious training, the J.K. Horgle Transport and Logistics Centre is positioned to shape a future-ready workforce that balances economic efficiency with social and environmental responsibility.

Former President Akufo-Addo Calls for Youth Advocacy in Education to Drive Africa’s Transformation
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Former President Akufo-Addo Calls for Youth Advocacy in Education to Drive Africa’s Transformation

Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has issued a stirring call to action for young Africans, urging them to take the lead in advocating for quality education as the primary vehicle for continental transformation. Speaking at the Third West Africa Youth Summit held in Accra, the former president emphasized that education remains the most critical cornerstone for Africa’s development, poverty alleviation, and long-term economic growth. He told the gathering of young leaders, policymakers, and civil rights actors that the continent’s progress depends heavily on how effectively it prepares its youth through learning and skills development. Central to his address was the success of Ghana’s Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy, which his administration pioneered to eliminate financial barriers to secondary education. Akufo-Addo highlighted that before the policy’s implementation, nearly one million young Ghanaians were excluded from secondary education due to the lack of financial means. He noted that the initiative has significantly increased enrollment, particularly among girls and children from disadvantaged backgrounds, thereby ensuring that financial status no longer dictates a child's academic potential or future opportunities. The former president further stressed that while infrastructure and other capital investments are necessary for national progress, the investment in human capital through education is unparalleled in its long-term impact. He encouraged the youth delegates to return to their respective communities as active ambassadors for education, promoting the importance of consistent learning to equip the next generation for future global challenges. By championing access to quality education, Akufo-Addo argued that the youth can actively drive the societal transformation required to overcome historical cycles of underdevelopment. The summit served as a vital platform for regional cooperation, bringing together youth from across West Africa to discuss empowerment and the broader African development agenda. Akufo-Addo’s message underscored a vision where a well-educated population serves as the bedrock of a prosperous and self-sufficient Africa. He concluded by reiterating that true sustainable development is only achievable when the youth are empowered with the knowledge and tools necessary to lead the charge for the continent's growth.

Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum Critiques 'Useless' University Degrees, Calls for Alignment with Ghana's Job Market
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Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum Critiques 'Useless' University Degrees, Calls for Alignment with Ghana's Job Market

Former Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, has voiced strong concerns regarding the relevance of certain academic programs in Ghana, labeling them as 'useless' and 'degrees to nowhere.' Speaking on the Konnected Minds podcast, Dr. Adutwum criticized Ghanaian universities for offering courses that fail to equip students with employable skills or align with the country's strategic labor requirements. He argued that the current tertiary landscape is often more focused on maximizing enrollment numbers and tuition fees than addressing the developmental needs of the nation.\n\nSpecific programs identified by the former minister as problematic include Development Studies and a Bachelor of Arts in Education (Non-Teaching), which he noted are offered by institutions like the University for Development Studies and the University of Ghana. Dr. Adutwum suggested that these courses often lead to high rates of graduate unemployment because they do not translate into the specific professional roles required by the modern economy. He expressed frustration that while students spend years in these programs, they often graduate without the practical competencies needed to contribute effectively to the workforce.\n\nTo address this systemic issue, Dr. Adutwum called for a rigorous labor needs assessment to guide the selection and structure of university courses. He urged the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) to play a proactive role in ensuring that academic offerings are synchronized with market demands, particularly in high-growth fields such as engineering and healthcare. Using India's educational reforms as a potential model, he emphasized that tertiary education must be a tool for national development, specifically tailored to produce professionals who can fill critical gaps in the industry.\n\nThe former minister's remarks underscore a growing urgency to bridge the gap between academia and the private sector in Ghana. By advocating for a demand-driven approach to education, Adutwum highlights the necessity of shifting institutional priorities away from sheer quantity toward quality and relevance. The call to action serves as a challenge to both educational regulators and university administrators to ensure that the time and financial investments made by students result in viable career paths and overall economic growth for the country.