Haruna Iddrisu to introduce integrated basic schools for 3m pupils in 2027

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has announced that the government will introduce a new model of integrated basic education schools starting in 2027. This initiative, which has received executive approval from President John Mahama, is designed to modernize the nation's school infrastructure and create a more seamless transition for students through their foundational years. The program specifically targets a critical deficit that currently affects approximately three million pupils across 13 regions who lack adequate classroom environments.

Under the proposed model, each facility will house students from kindergarten through junior high school within a single, unified campus. These integrated schools are expected to be equipped with modern learning tools, including dedicated Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) laboratories. By consolidating these levels of education, the ministry aims to ensure that students have access to consistent resources and specialized facilities from their earliest years in the school system.

The announcement comes as stakeholders emphasize the urgent need for physical and financial resources in the education sector. Rev. Fr. Stephen Owusu Sekyere, President of the Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS), has highlighted the necessity for immediate government intervention regarding stalled projects and the disbursement of outstanding operational funds. He noted that while new models are welcome, addressing existing furniture shortages and infrastructure gaps remains vital for the success of Ghana’s educational objectives.

Construction on these new model schools is slated to begin in the near future as part of a broader strategy to bridge the infrastructure gap. By focusing on 13 regions with the highest need, the Ministry of Education intends to provide a standardized, high-quality learning environment for millions of children. This development represents a significant step in the government's efforts to ensure that basic education facilities meet modern standards and support the growing population of learners across the country.