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.

Ghana International School hosts 10th TIME Educators’ Conference in Accra
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Ghana International School hosts 10th TIME Educators’ Conference in Accra

The Ghana International School (GIS) has marked the 10th anniversary of its signature professional development event, the TIME Educators’ Conference, at its secondary school campus in Accra. Held on October 10, 2026, the conference focused on the theme "10 Years of Impact: Transforming Education, One Teacher at a TIME." The milestone event brought together educators from across the country to discuss modernizing teaching methodologies and enhancing learning outcomes in an evolving global landscape. During the keynote address, Professor Jonathan Fletcher highlighted a dramatic improvement in professional teaching standards in Ghana over the last decade. He noted that when the conference series first began in 2016, only an estimated 10% of teachers met the National Teachers’ Standards. Ten years later, that figure has surged to 68%. This progress reflects a concerted effort within the education sector to prioritize quality instruction and formal certification, ensuring that educators are better equipped to meet the needs of their students. Principal of Ghana International School, Nadia O. Bruce-Müller, emphasized that the conference remains a vital platform for continuous professional development. She addressed the dual challenges of staying current with educational trends while maintaining ethical standards. A significant focus of this year's discussions was the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the classroom. Bruce-Müller stressed that while AI offers powerful tools for personalized learning, its implementation must be guided by ethical considerations to protect the integrity of the educational process. Since its inception in 2016, the TIME Educators’ Conference has grown into a significant hub for collaboration among Ghanaian teachers. By fostering an environment where educators can share best practices and innovative strategies, GIS aims to drive a broader transformation in the national education system. Organizers underscored that the next decade will focus on further narrowing the gap in teaching standards and ensuring that technology serves as a bridge to academic excellence.

George Asiamah shares journey from failing SSCE to Oxford University tutor
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George Asiamah shares journey from failing SSCE to Oxford University tutor

Dr. George Asiamah, a Ghanaian academic, has shared his remarkable journey from failing his 2003 Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) to becoming a tutor at the University of Oxford. His story, which has gained significant attention for its message of academic resilience, details how he overcame early failures to eventually teach at one of the world's most prestigious educational institutions. In an interview with broadcaster Kafui Dey, Dr. Asiamah revealed the extent of his initial academic difficulties. In 2003, his SSCE results were exceptionally poor, consisting of four Fs and three Es. Such grades typically represent a major barrier to higher education in Ghana, yet Dr. Asiamah refused to let this setback define his future prospects. He instead embarked on a determined path of self-improvement and academic recovery. Dr. Asiamah now serves as a tutor at Exeter College, a constituent college of the University of Oxford. His current role involving the instruction and guidance of students at such a high level stands in stark contrast to his secondary school performance. He credits his transition to the lecture halls of Oxford to a commitment to perseverance and a refusal to give up on his goals despite the early obstacles he encountered. His narrative serves as an inspirational example for students who may be facing academic challenges or societal pressure following poor results. By sharing his personal history, Dr. Asiamah highlights the importance of resilience and the fact that early academic struggles do not necessarily dictate one's ultimate career path. His success underscores the possibility of bridging the gap between failure and global excellence through hard work.

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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.

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UNICEF and UNHCR inaugurate renovated kindergarten block in Zini

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) have commissioned a newly renovated kindergarten block in Zini, located in the Sissala West District. The project, which was co-financed by the European Union (EU), is designed to expand access to early childhood education and create an integrated learning environment for both refugee children and those from the host community. The initiative marks a significant step in providing quality foundational training in a region that has seen an influx of displaced persons. The newly inaugurated facility is equipped with essential amenities to support a modern and safe learning environment, including new furniture, specialized washrooms, and a kitchen. To ensure the safety of the young learners, the block has been enclosed with a fence. This renovation was carried out under the broader UNITE Project, a collaborative initiative that targets improvements in the sectors of education, health, and social protection across vulnerable regions. During the commissioning ceremony, EU representative Gisela Spreitzhofer commended the Zini community for their cooperation and lauded Ghana’s inclusive policy toward refugees. Dr. Peter Kwarteng of UNICEF emphasized that providing quality education in a safe, integrated setting is vital for the developmental health of all children, regardless of their background. Local leader Kuoro Abu Diaka Sukabe Ninia V expressed deep gratitude for the project, describing it as a critical foundation for the future of the district’s children. The ceremony was attended by various educational and governmental representatives, highlighting the multi-sectoral support for the initiative. By focusing on the integration of refugee and host community children, the project aims to foster social cohesion while addressing the immediate educational infrastructure needs of the Sissala West District. This intervention is expected to serve as a model for inclusive early childhood education in regions hosting displaced populations.

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KN Unique Communications launches National Education Excellence Awards

KN Unique Communications has officially launched the National Education Excellence Awards Ghana, a new initiative designed to celebrate the stakeholders and institutions shaping the future of education in the country. The program aims to provide a formal platform for recognizing the dedication of educators and administrators who contribute to the development of human capital. The inaugural ceremony for the awards is scheduled to take place on November 28, marking a significant milestone in the sector's efforts to acknowledge professional merit. The awards will focus on recognizing excellence in several critical categories, including academic leadership, technological innovation, and vocational skills development. Operating under the theme "Celebrating institutions; recognising leaders, advancing education," the initiative seeks to identify and honor those who have implemented transformative strategies within their respective fields. By highlighting these success stories, the organizers hope to inspire other practitioners to adopt best practices and elevate the standard of education nationwide through healthy competition and public appreciation. Participation is open to a broad array of educational entities, including universities, basic schools, and vocational training centers. Beyond the recognition itself, the awards offer participating institutions an opportunity for national visibility and networking among key stakeholders in the Ghanaian education sector. As the November 28 event approaches, the initiative is expected to become a cornerstone for professional appreciation within the academic community, reinforcing the importance of quality education in national development and encouraging a culture of continuous improvement across all learning levels.

Duncan Amoah urges government to pay teachers realistic salaries
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Duncan Amoah urges government to pay teachers realistic salaries

Duncan Amoah, the Executive Director of the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC), has appealed to the Ghanaian government to prioritize realistic remuneration for teachers. Speaking on Channel One TV’s "The Big Issue" on October 10, Amoah emphasized that improving teacher welfare and adequately funding educational materials are essential steps toward ensuring that the nation's investment in education translates into better job outcomes for graduates. Amoah highlighted a current misalignment between education spending and the actual welfare of the teaching workforce. He argued that the quality of education and the future employability of students are directly linked to the motivation and support provided to educators. According to him, providing the necessary resources and financial incentives is not just a matter of labor relations but a fundamental requirement for the sector's overall success. The COPEC boss also touched on the industrial climate within the education sector, specifically addressing recent labor unrest. While he welcomed the decision by teacher unions to call off a recent strike, he stressed that this should not lead to complacency on the part of the government. He noted that the suspension of the industrial action indicates a level of responsiveness, yet it serves as a reminder of the deep-seated grievances that remain within the profession. To maintain stability and foster long-term improvements, Amoah urged the government to maintain a continuous and constructive dialogue with teacher unions. He concluded that addressing teacher concerns comprehensively through such engagement is the only way to prevent future industrial actions and ensure a stable learning environment for students across the country.

A formal letter from the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), University of Ghana Branch, dated October 9, 2026. The document serves as a notice of intent to strike due to unpaid 2026 Book and Research allowances, signed by the branch President and Secretary.
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UTAG-UG threatens strike over unpaid 2026 Book and Research Allowance

The University Teachers Association of Ghana at the University of Ghana (UTAG-UG) has issued a formal notice to the government, threatening a total withdrawal of teaching and related services starting Monday, October 19, 2026. The association is demanding the immediate payment of the outstanding 2026 Book and Research Allowance, which it claims is long overdue. The lecturers have set a final deadline of Friday, October 16, 2026, for the government to settle the arrears or face a complete shutdown of academic activities at the nation's premier university. According to the strike notice, which was signed by UTAG-UG President Dr. Jerry Joe Harrison and Secretary Godfred Bright Hagan, the decision to proceed with industrial action is rooted in the government's failure to adhere to a 2020 Memorandum of Agreement (MoA). This agreement mandates the timely disbursement of research allowances to faculty members to support their academic and professional development. The union expressed deep frustration over persistent delays, characterizing the current situation as a direct violation of the standing agreement between the university teachers and the state. The notice of intent has been officially served to the National Labour Commission (NLC) and distributed to all relevant government stakeholders. UTAG-UG emphasized that the withdrawal of services will include not only teaching but all related academic duties. This development poses a significant threat to the university’s academic calendar, potentially disrupting lectures, examinations, and research supervision. As the October 16 deadline approaches, the focus shifts to the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Finance to see if a last-minute intervention will prevent the industrial action. Previous disputes over the Book and Research Allowance have led to protracted strikes that affected thousands of students. The current administration under President John Mahama faces this challenge in industrial relations as the association maintains that its members cannot continue to provide services without the resources promised under their conditions of service.

A wide shot of the iconic main entrance gate of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi. The white curved structure features the university's name in green lettering, overlooking a road with light traffic and lush greenery.
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KNUST postpones 2026/2027 reopening indefinitely due to GAUA strike

The management of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has announced the indefinite postponement of the institution's reopening for the 2026/2027 academic year. This decision, officially communicated on October 9, 2026, is a direct consequence of the ongoing industrial action by the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA). The strike has significantly hampered administrative operations, making it impossible for the university to adhere to its original schedule.\n\nFresh and continuing students were previously expected to report to campus on October 13, 2026. However, university authorities noted that the strike's impact on essential services has created a situation where a smooth start to the semester cannot be guaranteed. The GAUA strike, which has affected several public universities, centers on demands for improved conditions of service and the resolution of long-standing grievances regarding administrative welfare. The absence of these administrators has stalled critical processes, including admissions and the finalization of academic logistics for the new year.\n\nIn the official statement, KNUST expressed regret for any inconvenience the delay causes to students, parents, and other stakeholders. Management assured the university community that they are monitoring the situation closely and will communicate a revised reopening date as soon as the industrial issues are resolved or alternative arrangements are secured. Stakeholders are encouraged to remain patient and rely only on official university communication channels for further updates.

Pre-tertiary teacher unions suspend nationwide strike
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Pre-tertiary teacher unions suspend nationwide strike

Three major pre-tertiary teacher unions—the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Pre-Tertiary Teachers’ Association of Ghana (PRETAG)—have suspended their nationwide industrial action. Following successful negotiations with the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), the unions have directed their members to return to classrooms on Monday, October 12. The strike, which had been in effect for two weeks, was launched to protest unresolved grievances regarding unpaid promotion arrears and the implementation of several key teacher allowances. As part of the consensus reached with government representatives, a specific payment schedule has been established to address the unions' financial demands. The government has committed to paying promotion-related arrears for approximately 51,000 teachers by October 16. Furthermore, authorities have pledged to implement a deprived area allowance by January 2027, a long-standing demand intended to improve teacher retention in remote and under-served regions. GNAT President Prosper Tachie emphasized that the suspension of the strike is tied to these commitments, and the union is now advocating for the finalization of explicit implementation procedures for these conditions of service to ensure future agreements are fully honored. Despite the return to work, the unions have made it clear that the suspension is conditional on the government’s adherence to the agreed timelines. NAGRAT President Jacob Anaba warned that industrial action could resume if the January 2027 commitment for the deprived area allowance is not fulfilled. He emphasized that educators in remote areas face significant hardships in accessing basic services, making the allowance essential for their continued service. The government's treatment of teacher unions was also criticized by Professor Titus Beyuo, the MP for Lambussie, who urged more proactive engagement with labor concerns to avoid recurring strikes. The Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Ministry of Education are now focused on recovering lost instructional time to safeguard the academic calendar. Deputy Education Minister Dr. Clement Apaak stated that the GES will develop a comprehensive plan in collaboration with teachers to make up for the two weeks of teaching missed during the strike. Both government officials and union leaders expressed confidence that the lost hours can be recovered without causing major disruption to the academic schedule, ensuring that students remain on track for their examinations and educational milestones.

Ho Technical University female team ranks seventh with AI kidney tool
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Ho Technical University female team ranks seventh with AI kidney tool

A six-member team of female engineering students from Ho Technical University (HTU) has secured the seventh position at a prestigious Women in Engineering competition held in Ho. Competing against 19 other universities, the team gained recognition for their innovative approach to healthcare technology and their ability to apply engineering concepts to clinical challenges. The group's performance highlights the growing contribution of women in the engineering and technology sectors within Ghana’s higher education landscape. The centerpiece of the team’s entry was NephroScan GH, an AI-powered prototype designed to address the challenges of early disease detection. The tool specifically focuses on Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), using full blood count (FBC) data to predict a patient's risk level. By leveraging artificial intelligence, the students aimed to provide a more efficient and accessible method for identifying potential kidney issues before they reach critical stages, potentially reducing the burden on the national healthcare system through early intervention. Led by Madam Sesinam Kumako, the team demonstrated the practical application of engineering principles to solve real-world medical problems. The competition provided a vital platform for these students to showcase their technical skills and creativity in a field traditionally dominated by men. The seventh-place finish among a large field of 19 institutions underscores the competitive quality of the engineering curriculum at Ho Technical University and the potential of its student body to innovate in the digital health space. The development of NephroScan GH marks a significant step forward in student-led technological research at the university level. As healthcare providers increasingly look toward digital solutions to improve patient outcomes, prototypes like the one created by the HTU team offer a glimpse into the future of diagnostic tools in Ghana. The team's success is expected to inspire more female students to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), further bridging the gender gap in technical innovation.

ECOM Ghana launches Agriculture Our Future Clubs in 40 basic schools
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ECOM Ghana launches Agriculture Our Future Clubs in 40 basic schools

Sustainable Management Services (SMS), a wing of ECOM Ghana, has officially launched the "Agriculture Our Future Clubs" initiative across 40 basic schools in 12 districts. The programme is designed to ignite interest in farming among the youth and address the looming threat of an ageing farmer population in Ghana. With the average age of a Ghanaian farmer currently standing at 55—a figure particularly high in cocoa-producing regions—the initiative seeks to reposition agriculture as a viable, modern, and attractive career path for the next generation. The clubs will offer students practical, hands-on experiences in agribusiness, environmental conservation, and entrepreneurship. Beyond teaching farming techniques, the curriculum emphasizes child protection and safety to ensure a holistic and secure educational environment. During the launch, Emmanuel Baffoe-Bonnie emphasized the necessity of changing negative perceptions about the sector, noting that agriculture must be viewed as a professional industry rather than a fallback for the uneducated. Stakeholders at the event identified several cultural and systemic hurdles that the initiative aims to overcome. Educators were strongly urged to stop using farm work as a form of punishment in schools, a practice that reinforces the idea that agriculture is a penalty rather than an opportunity. Furthermore, there was criticism regarding the removal of Agricultural Science from the basic school curriculum, with participants arguing that such policy shifts undermine the practical training necessary for national food security. The initiative has received widespread support from local stakeholders who view it as essential for the long-term sustainability of Ghana’s agricultural sector. By providing tools, mentorship, and a structured platform, ECOM Ghana aims to foster a new cohort of young "agripreneurs" capable of modernizing the industry. The rollout across the initial 12 districts is expected to serve as a model for future expansion, ensuring the country’s backbone industry is revitalized by youthful innovation and energy.

Akosua Achiaa Sarpong wins John Mensah Sarbah Award for law excellence
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Akosua Achiaa Sarpong wins John Mensah Sarbah Award for law excellence

Akosua Achiaa Sarpong, an alumna of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Faculty of Law, has emerged as the overall best performer at the 63rd Call to the Bar ceremony in Accra. Her outstanding academic performance in the Professional Law Examinations earned her the prestigious John Mensah Sarbah Award, marking a significant milestone in her legal career as she joins the ranks of newly enrolled lawyers in Ghana. In addition to receiving the top award of the ceremony, Sarpong was also recognized as the Best Student in Civil Procedure. This double recognition distinguishes her as a top graduate of the year, showcasing her mastery of both substantive and procedural law. The Call to the Bar ceremony serves as the formal induction for law graduates who have successfully completed their professional training at the Ghana School of Law, and Sarpong’s achievements were a focal point of the event. The John Mensah Sarbah Award is among the highest honors bestowed by the General Legal Council, reserved for students who demonstrate exceptional brilliance across the entire spectrum of the professional law course. Named after the legendary Ghanaian jurist, statesman, and author, the award carries a legacy of intellectual rigor and professional integrity that Sarpong now represents as she begins her journey in the legal fraternity. Sarpong’s success highlights the academic strength of the KNUST Faculty of Law, where she laid the foundation for her legal education before proceeding to her professional studies. As she enters the profession, her performance sets a high benchmark for current students and serves as an inspiration to aspiring legal professionals across the country’s various law faculties.