Godfred Bokpin warns recurrent strikes threaten quality of education

Professor Godfred Bokpin, a prominent academic from the University of Ghana Business School, has sounded a warning regarding the detrimental effects of frequent labor strikes on the nation's educational standards. He argued that the cyclical nature of these industrial actions is systematically undermining the quality of human capital produced in Ghana, primarily by eroding essential teaching time and creating a fractured learning environment for students across all levels. These disruptions, which tend to recur every few years, have broader implications for the country's long-term socio-economic development.

The Professor specifically drew attention to the challenges faced by senior high schools under the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) framework, where instructional consistency is vital for student success. Bokpin also expressed skepticism regarding the effectiveness of online learning as a substitute for in-person instruction during strike periods, suggesting that such alternatives often fail to provide the same level of academic rigor or student engagement necessary for high-quality education.

Beyond the basic and secondary levels, the instability has cast a shadow of uncertainty over university academic calendars. Bokpin noted that recent postponements in the tertiary sector have left students and administrators in a state of flux, making long-term academic planning nearly impossible. While he recognized that teachers and university staff often have legitimate grievances and demands, he maintained that the current pattern of resolution—which often involves prolonged shutdowns—is ultimately damaging to the credibility of the education system.

In his analysis, Professor Bokpin urged the government to take a more proactive approach to industrial relations to ensure institutional stability. He emphasized that the state must prioritize industrial harmony and ensure that educational funding is treated as a strategic investment aligned with national development goals. By fostering a more stable environment, he concluded, the government can protect the academic journey of students and safeguard the future competitiveness of Ghanaian graduates in a global market.