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.

A group of female nursing students sitting in a lecture hall or assembly, appearing attentive. Most students are wearing green uniforms with white collars, while one student in the foreground is dressed in a white uniform and a white hijab.
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Hamdia Issahaku graduates as best female nursing student at UDS

Hamdia Issahaku has emerged as the Best Female Graduating Student at the University for Development Studies (UDS) School of Nursing and Midwifery, marking a significant milestone in a journey defined by resilience. Her academic achievement comes after years of navigating profound personal and financial challenges that threatened her ability to complete her tertiary education. Issahaku is currently fulfilling her mandatory National Service at the Tema General Hospital, where she continues to apply the clinical skills that earned her the top spot among her female peers. Issahaku’s path to excellence was complicated by the death of her mother and a serious accident involving her brother, events that left her family in a precarious financial state. To fund her early semesters, she balanced a rigorous nursing curriculum with campus entrepreneurship, selling body splash and other personal care products to fellow students. This self-reliance allowed her to stay in school during her most difficult periods, demonstrating a level of determination that preceded her eventual academic recognition. A critical turning point in her journey occurred when she secured the MTN Bright Scholarship. The scholarship provided the financial stability she lacked, covering tuition and other essential costs, which allowed her to shift her primary focus back to her studies. This support proved to be the catalyst for her academic surge, enabling her to excel in her nursing and midwifery coursework and ultimately secure the title of the best female graduate in the department. Beyond her professional dedication to healthcare, Issahaku maintains her entrepreneurial spirit by running a small beverage business alongside her service at the Tema General Hospital. Her story has been highlighted as a testament to the impact of corporate scholarship programs in Ghana, illustrating how targeted financial support can help high-achieving students from disadvantaged backgrounds reach their full potential while contributing to the nation's healthcare sector.

Ayisha Ibrahim called to the Ghana Bar as barrister and solicitor
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Ayisha Ibrahim called to the Ghana Bar as barrister and solicitor

Ayisha Ibrahim, a prominent Ghanaian journalist, has officially joined the legal profession after being called to the Ghana Bar. This significant career milestone was formalized during the enrollment ceremony, where she was qualified as a Barrister and Solicitor of the Superior Court of Judicature of Ghana. Ibrahim’s transition into law comes after years of dedicated study and practice, further diversifying her professional portfolio as a media practitioner. Her academic journey leading up to this point is extensive, characterized by a commitment to high-level education. Ibrahim already holds a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from the University of Ghana and a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). These degrees provided the theoretical and administrative foundation necessary to navigate the complexities of legal education and practice in Ghana. Reflecting on the process, Ibrahim described the experience of balancing a high-pressure journalism career with the rigors of legal training as challenging but deeply rewarding. The process required immense discipline to meet the standards of the Ghana School of Law while continuing her work in the media space. Her success highlights the possibility of achieving academic excellence alongside a demanding professional life, serving as a model for young professionals across various sectors. The achievement is seen as an inspiration for others pursuing continuous learning and professional growth. By becoming a legal practitioner, Ibrahim joins an elite group of media figures in Ghana who possess the legal expertise to influence public policy and discourse. Her dual role is expected to bring a unique perspective to both the media and legal industries, reinforcing the importance of perseverance and academic rigor in professional advancement.

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Kintampo L/A School compound becomes kraal for stray cattle

The Kintampo Local Authority (L/A) Primary and Junior High School in the Bono East Region has been overrun by stray cattle, effectively turning the educational facility into a kraal. This development follows the closure of classrooms during a nationwide teacher strike, which has left the premises largely unsupervised. With students and staff absent, herdsmen have moved their livestock onto the school grounds for grazing and shelter, creating a significant nuisance for the local community. The headmaster of the school, D.T. Francis, reported that the invasion has resulted in deteriorating sanitation conditions across the campus. The presence of large numbers of cattle has left the grounds covered in animal waste, which residents fear will pose a major health risk once school activities eventually resume. Despite the headmaster bringing the issue to the attention of local authorities, no measures have been implemented to secure the school property or prevent the herdsmen from using the site as a holding pen. The situation in Kintampo underscores the broader impact of the industrial action beyond the loss of instructional time. Public infrastructure remains unguarded, leaving educational facilities vulnerable to encroachment and potential damage. Concerned residents and school management are now intensifying their calls for the Kintampo municipal assembly to intervene, urging them to clear the compound and ensure that the environment is restored to a state suitable for learning before students return to their classrooms.

Old Edubiase Methodist Basic School pupils abandon classes for farm work
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Old Edubiase Methodist Basic School pupils abandon classes for farm work

Pupils at Old Edubiase Methodist Basic School in the Ashanti Region have reportedly abandoned their studies to engage in petty trading and farm work. The shift in activities follows a nationwide strike by pre-tertiary teachers, which has left classrooms across the district deserted. On October 8, many children were seen hawking goods or working on local farms instead of attending school, as teachers had previously instructed them to remain home until the industrial action concluded. The disruption has sparked deep concern among final-year students who are currently preparing for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). These pupils expressed disappointment over the halt in their academic progress, noting that the lack of instructional time could severely impact their performance in the upcoming national exams. Without the structure of the school day, many children have turned to labor to occupy their time, with some seen playing in the streets or assisting their parents with commercial tasks. Parents in the Old Edubiase community have voiced frustration over the ongoing impasse between the government and teacher unions. While some families have utilized their children's help with agricultural labor, they emphasized that the prolonged closure of schools is detrimental to the children's future and may expose them to social vices. The community has made an urgent appeal to all stakeholders to resolve the strike and prioritize the return of students to the classroom. Despite the clear impact on rural education, meetings between educational authorities and the striking unions have yet to yield a definitive resolution. The situation at Old Edubiase reflects a broader national challenge as the strike continues to disrupt the academic calendar. Stakeholders remain hopeful that a compromise will be reached soon to prevent further academic loss for the affected students.

KNUST postpones 2026/2027 academic year reopening indefinitely
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KNUST postpones 2026/2027 academic year reopening indefinitely

The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has announced an indefinite postponement of its 2026/2027 academic year reopening, which was originally scheduled for October 13, 2026. This decision follows a strike by the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA), which has significantly hampered administrative and operational activities on campus. The university management expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to students and stakeholders, advising them to await further communication regarding a revised reopening date. The industrial action by GAUA stems from ongoing grievances regarding remuneration and conditions of service for university administrators across the country. The disruption at KNUST highlights the critical role these administrators play in the day-to-day running of the institution, from registration processes to logistical preparations for the arrival of new and returning students. Without these essential services in place, university authorities have determined that the semester cannot proceed as planned. In response to the nationwide impact of the strike, Vice Chancellors Ghana (VCG) has issued a formal appeal to the striking administrators to suspend their action and return to work. The VCG emphasized the risk that prolonged strikes pose to the stability of the academic calendar, noting that universities are still working to maintain consistency following previous disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The body stressed that while the concerns of the administrators are valid, a return to work would facilitate more productive negotiations without further penalizing the student population. Negotiations remain active between GAUA, the Ministry of Education, and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC). The VCG noted that the FWSC has expressed a commitment to reaching a fair resolution that addresses the welfare of university staff. For now, the academic future of thousands of KNUST students remains on hold as stakeholders push for a breakthrough in the labor dispute to restore normalcy to the educational system.

A close-up photograph of several protest placards held during a demonstration. The primary red sign in focus displays the words 'TEACHER STRIKE' in bold white capital letters over an apple graphic, while blurred background signs demand salary increases.
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Teacher unions suspend nationwide strike for October 12 return

Ghana’s three main 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 two-week nationwide strike. The decision follows successful negotiations with the Council of State and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) regarding outstanding service conditions. Teachers have been directed to return to their classrooms on Monday, October 12, 2026, ending a period of industrial action that began on September 25 over promotion arrears and delayed allowances. The Ministry of Education has expressed appreciation for the move, emphasizing its commitment to educator welfare and the maintenance of quality instruction. A central component of the resolution is the processing of financial arrears for over 51,000 teachers. Thomas Musah, General Secretary of GNAT, announced that teachers whose promotions were previously delayed will receive their adjusted salaries by October 16, 2026. The Controller and Accountant-General, Kwasi Agyei, confirmed that his department has already processed records for 52,000 affected staff members. Any records not verified by the mid-October deadline are expected to be addressed in a supplementary payroll or the subsequent November cycle. Furthermore, the government has committed to disbursing a digital support allowance in November and a professional development allowance in December 2026. Despite the suspension of the strike, union leaders maintain that negotiations on broader issues are still active. These ongoing talks include the full implementation of a 20% allowance for teachers in deprived areas and the finalization of a new collective agreement. While the strike has ended to minimize disruption to students, GNAT has indicated that it will continue to engage with the government to ensure all remaining concerns are satisfactorily addressed. Payments under the new collective agreement are currently scheduled to commence in January 2027. The Council of State, which mediated the final discussions, described the engagement as fruitful and critical for restoring industrial harmony within the education sector.

A close-up photograph of several protest placards held during a demonstration. The primary red sign in focus displays the words 'TEACHER STRIKE' in bold white capital letters over an apple graphic, while blurred background signs demand salary increases.
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Teacher unions suspend nationwide strike over promotion arrears

The three main 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 intensive negotiations with the Council of State and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC). The unions have directed their members to return to classrooms on Monday, October 12, 2026. The strike, which began on September 25, was triggered by delays in paying promotion arrears, incorrect salary scale placements, and the non-implementation of a 20% allowance for teachers working in deprived areas. A significant breakthrough in the negotiations involves the payment of outstanding promotion-related arrears for approximately 51,000 teachers. Thomas Musah, the General Secretary of GNAT, announced that the government has committed to paying these adjusted salaries and arrears by October 16, 2026. Dr. George Smith-Graham, Chief Executive of the FWSC, confirmed that the necessary modalities have been signed, noting that the promotion records for these educators have already been processed to facilitate the upcoming payments. Beyond salary arrears, the agreement outlines a roadmap for additional teacher benefits throughout the remainder of the year. A digital support allowance is scheduled for disbursement in November, followed by a professional development allowance in December 2026. While the 20% allowance for teachers in deprived areas was agreed upon in principle, the unions and government are still finalizing specific implementation details. The Ministry of Education welcomed the suspension, with Deputy Minister Dr. Clement Apaak emphasizing the government's commitment to resolving grievances without seeing educators as adversaries. Despite the resumption of work, the unions have clarified that the suspension is not a final conclusion to their demands. Thomas Musah stated that negotiations regarding the collective agreement and other conditions of service will persist until all outstanding concerns are fully addressed. The Council of State, which described the recent discussions as fruitful, will continue to monitor the progress of these talks. Teachers are expected to see the implementation of a new collective agreement starting in January 2027, as part of a broader effort to ensure lasting industrial harmony in the education sector.

Hammond Agyen receives 4x4 pick-up for Ghana Teacher Prize
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Hammond Agyen receives 4x4 pick-up for Ghana Teacher Prize

Hammond Agyen, a teacher at Manhean Anglican ‘D’ Primary School, has been officially presented with a brand-new 4x4 pick-up truck for his achievement as the first runner-up in the Teacher category of the 2026 Ghana Teacher Prize. The award, sponsored by Universal Merchant Bank (UMB), was presented during the national ceremony held at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), to mark World Teachers’ Day. The event served as a high-profile recognition of Mr. Agyen’s dedication to the teaching profession and his impact on primary education. The ceremony, organized under the theme "Empowering Teachers: Architects of the Future," was attended by Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang. Her presence underscored the government's commitment to honoring educators who play a pivotal role in national development and the shaping of Ghana's future leaders. UMB's sponsorship of the vehicle continues a tradition of corporate partnership in the education sector, aimed at motivating teachers to maintain high standards of excellence in their various schools. Speaking on behalf of the bank, Edem Knight-Tay emphasized that the partnership with the Ghana Teacher Prize is rooted in the shared value of reliability. Knight-Tay noted that just as the public relies on teachers to mold future generations, customers rely on UMB for their financial security and services. In his response, Mr. Agyen expressed profound gratitude for the recognition and the substantial prize, stating that such rewards serve as significant motivation for teachers to remain committed to their duties despite the various challenges faced in the classroom. The Ghana Teacher Prize remains the country's premier platform for celebrating pedagogical excellence and professionalism. By rewarding high-performing educators with significant assets like vehicles, the Ministry of Education and its partners seek to elevate the status of the teaching profession and attract more talent to the sector. For Mr. Agyen, the award not only recognizes his personal hard work but also highlights the vital role of teachers as the primary architects of the country’s socio-economic growth.

PESCOSA to break ground on new Peki Senior High School entrance gate
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PESCOSA to break ground on new Peki Senior High School entrance gate

The Peki Senior High School Old Students’ Association (PESCOSA) is scheduled to hold a sod-cutting ceremony on Friday, October 9, 2026, to initiate the construction of a new entrance gate for the school. Located in the South Dayi District of the Volta Region, the project is part of a broader effort by the alumni body to enhance the institution's physical appearance and brand identity. This infrastructure development is intended to reflect the school's heritage while providing a modern point of entry for students, staff, and visitors.\n\nNational President of PESCOSA, David Kwame Aziago, who is leading the initiative, explained that the new gate will prominently display the school’s name and official crest. Mr. Aziago has emphasized that the project is a critical step in revitalizing the school's infrastructure through collective alumni action. He believes that such initiatives are essential for maintaining the prestige of the institution and fostering a sense of pride among the current student body and the community at large.\n\nThe upcoming ceremony is expected to host a variety of dignitaries, including the Paramount Chief of the Peki Traditional Area, Deiga Kwadzo Dei XII. Their presence, alongside regional education officials and former students, underscores the community's support for the development of the school. The event will serve as a platform to rally more alumni to contribute to various ongoing and future needs of the institution, highlighting the vital role that old students play in the growth of their alma mater.\n\nIn the lead-up to the groundbreaking, the association has called on all "Pescans" to support the drive, highlighting that alumni involvement is pivotal for the school's progress. Beyond the aesthetic improvement of the entrance, PESCOSA intends for this project to inspire further contributions toward academic and residential facilities. By modernizing the entrance, the association aims to set a new standard for future developmental projects at the school, ensuring a better environment for future generations.

Most Rev. Dr Paul Kwabena Boafo, immediate past Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church Ghana
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Christian Council of Ghana urges protection of mission school identity

The Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) has called for comprehensive educational reforms that balance the preservation of mission-founded schools' religious identities with the enhancement of students' religious freedoms. Speaking at a public forum on October 5, the council underscored the need to navigate the delicate intersection of constitutional rights and the historical heritage of church-led educational institutions. The leadership emphasized that while the unique character of these schools is a national asset, it must coexist with the modern legal framework of the country. Most Rev. Dr. Paul Kwabena Boafo, representing the council, highlighted the significance of Articles 21 and 25 of the 1992 Constitution during his address. These constitutional provisions guarantee freedom of thought, conscience, and belief, as well as the fundamental right to education for all citizens regardless of their faith. Dr. Boafo acknowledged that mission schools have played a pivotal role in boosting literacy and providing civic education across Ghana for decades. However, he also stressed the necessity for robust safeguards to prevent any form of religious discrimination within school processes, including admissions and internal disciplinary codes. The CCG further expressed its support for the specific recommendations put forth by the Constitutional Review Committee regarding education and religious expression. The council maintains that the unique religious character and traditions of mission schools can be preserved without infringing upon the basic rights of students from diverse backgrounds. By advocating for these balanced reforms, the CCG aims to ensure that the educational environment remains inclusive and respectful of all faiths while honoring the foundational values of the religious bodies that established many of the nation's most prestigious academic institutions.

Bono East Education Directorate invites basic school teachers for SHS reposting
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Bono East Education Directorate invites basic school teachers for SHS reposting

The Bono East Regional Education Directorate has officially opened applications for professional basic school teachers who wish to be reposted to Senior High Schools (SHS) and Senior High Technical Schools (SHTS) within the region. This initiative, announced on September 29, is designed to address staffing needs and fill critical subject-teaching vacancies across various secondary institutions in Bono East. The directorate aims to ensure that all schools in the region are adequately staffed with qualified personnel to maintain educational standards. To be eligible for the reposting, interested applicants must demonstrate professional competence and possess the relevant academic qualifications necessary for teaching at the SHS/SHTS level. The directorate is seeking teachers with specific subject-matter knowledge and practical experience that aligns with the requirements of the senior high school curriculum. This process allows the Ghana Education Service (GES) to leverage existing talent within the basic education sector to strengthen the teaching force in secondary schools where specific subject expertise is required. Qualified teachers are required to submit their expressions of interest directly to the Regional Director. The application package must include a formal letter of interest along with certified copies of all relevant professional and academic qualifications. The deadline for the submission of these applications has been set for October 21. This window provides time for interested staff to compile their documentation and seek any necessary internal clearances before the final submission to the regional headquarters. This move by the Bono East Regional Education Directorate reflects a strategic effort to optimize human resource distribution within the regional education system. By transitioning qualified personnel from basic to senior high levels, the directorate aims to enhance the quality of instruction in SHS and SHTS institutions while providing career growth opportunities for educators. The outcome of this reposting exercise is expected to contribute to more balanced staffing levels and improved academic outcomes across the region's senior high schools.

Bertha Serwa Bonsu Ayi appointed Brand Ambassador for Central Aid
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Bertha Serwa Bonsu Ayi appointed Brand Ambassador for Central Aid

Dr. Bertha Serwa Bonsu Ayi has been officially appointed as a Brand Ambassador for Central Aid, the scholarship and social outreach arm of Central University in Ghana. This appointment positions Dr. Ayi as a key advocate for students who are currently navigating significant financial hurdles in their academic journeys. By taking on this role, she aims to amplify the mission of Central Aid in providing critical support to talented but underprivileged individuals seeking higher education. The appointment is deeply rooted in Dr. Ayi’s long history with the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), which established the university. A member of the church since 1988, she began her service as a youth leader during the church's formative years at its Dansoman location. Dr. Ayi was present during the initial stages of what would eventually evolve into Central University, giving her a unique historical perspective and a personal connection to the institution’s founding principles and mission. Rev. Dr. Albert Rockson, the Executive Director of Central Aid, initiated the appointment to bolster the organisation's outreach and fundraising efforts. Dr. Ayi has expressed her profound dedication to the vision of Central University, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that no student is forced to abandon their studies due to financial constraints. Moving forward, she is expected to use her platform to mobilize resources and increase awareness for the aid programme, reinforcing the university's commitment to social equity and academic accessibility.