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.

ASA Savings and Loans supports 50 students with GH₵50,000
education|

ASA Savings and Loans awards GH‵50,000 scholarship to 50 students

ASA Savings and Loans has distributed GH‵50,000 in educational support to 50 underprivileged students across the Ga East municipality. The initiative, which forms a core part of the financial institution’s corporate social responsibility strategy, is designed to ease the financial pressure on parents while ensuring that talented children from low-income backgrounds can pursue their academic goals without interruption. This latest intervention focuses on supporting the next generation of leaders in local communities to ensure that financial barriers do not halt their educational progress. The scholarship program specifically targets residents in communities such as Taifa and Kwabenya, covering a range of academic levels from senior high school entrants to tertiary education students. During the presentation, Branch Manager Patricia Effia Boafoa Ofori explained that the support is intended to provide a sense of hope to families who are currently struggling with the rising costs of education. By intervening at critical stages of the students' educational journeys, the company aims to foster a more inclusive environment for academic achievement and community development. Local education officials have lauded the move, noting the vital role of private-sector partnerships in supporting the national education agenda. The IT Coordinator at the Ga East Municipal Education Directorate stressed that such contributions are essential for alleviating the financial strain on households. Beneficiaries and their parents expressed profound gratitude, stating that the funds would directly address immediate school-related expenses. Moving forward, ASA Savings and Loans intends to sustain these interventions to encourage greater parental involvement and ensure that talented children are not left behind due to financial constraints.

Akosua Kwafo Ogyiri (2nd from left), Communications and Advocacy Professional, Richard Sarkodie-Abebreseh (left), Founder and COO, Goodwill Insurance Brokers, and overall winners of the competition after the trophy was handed over
education|

UniMAC students compete in inaugural PR Data Summit quiz

The University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC) has successfully held its inaugural PR Data Summit at the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) Conference Hall. The landmark event brought together final-year students to demonstrate their analytical and strategic capabilities in the evolving field of public relations. Central to the summit was a competitive quiz designed to test the students' grasp of industry-standard measurement and evaluation frameworks, marking a significant step in the institution's commitment to practical professional training. The competition featured six separate classes of Level 400 students, each vying for top honors in a rigorous assessment of their professional knowledge. To ensure the highest standards of evaluation, the summit invited prominent industry professionals to serve as judges, effectively bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world application. The participants were tasked with navigating complex scenarios that required a deep understanding of how to quantify the impact of communication strategies and manage organizational reputation through data. Following a spirited contest, the winning class emerged with an impressive score of 86 points, securing a trophy for their mastery of practical public relations concepts. This performance highlighted the students' proficiency in evidence-based communication, a skill set increasingly demanded by global PR firms and corporate communication departments. Beyond the competitive aspect, the summit served as a platform for fostering teamwork and collaborative problem-solving among the graduating cohort as they prepare to enter the professional workforce. Lecturer Derek Onomah, a key figure behind the initiative, emphasized that the summit's core objective was to instill a culture of measurement, proof, and continuous improvement in the next generation of practitioners. He noted that the transition toward data-driven PR is essential for the profession's credibility and long-term growth. By focusing on measurement and evaluation, UniMAC aims to produce graduates who can provide tangible evidence of their work's value, ensuring they are well-equipped for the demands of the modern media and communication landscape.

Edward Anato of Presbyterian SHS dies in Accra-Kumasi Highway accident
education|

Edward Anato of Presbyterian SHS dies in Accra-Kumasi Highway accident

Edward Anato, a prominent student at Presbyterian Senior High School (SHS), Bompata, has tragically died following a motor accident on the Accra-Kumasi Highway. Anato was a vital member of the school's National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) team, which recently achieved the significant milestone of qualifying for the quarter-finals of the 2026 edition of the competition. His sudden passing has shocked the academic community and sparked a wave of tributes for the young scholar who was expected to lead his school further in the tournament. The student was part of the three-member team that successfully navigated the preliminary and eighth-final stages of the NSMQ, showcasing exceptional intellectual prowess and academic dedication. Presbyterian SHS, Bompata, had been preparing to compete against some of the nation's most elite schools in the upcoming quarter-final rounds, with Anato serving as a key pillar of their strategy and team morale. His death is viewed as a major blow not only to his family and friends but also to the school’s aspirations in this year’s prestigious academic competition. While specific details regarding the exact cause of the crash on the busy Accra-Kumasi Highway have not been fully released, the incident has highlighted the ongoing risks associated with travel on one of the country's most frequented routes. The management of Presbyterian SHS and the organizers of the NSMQ are expected to coordinate support for the grieving family and the surviving team members. As the community enters a period of mourning, the school faces the difficult challenge of honoring Anato's memory while determining how to proceed in the national competition.

The front view of the centre
education|

Abuakwa South communities receive GH₵550,000 digital training centre

Abuakwa South communities in the Eastern Region have gained a significant boost in educational resources following the inauguration of a new GH₵550,000 digital learning centre at Habitat Obronikrom. The facility, established by Care for Society Network International (CfSNI), is designed to provide schoolchildren and local residents with access to modern technology and essential digital skills. By focusing on underserved rural populations, the initiative seeks to bridge the persistent digital divide that often leaves rural students at a disadvantage compared to their urban counterparts. The project was realized through a collaborative effort involving several key partners, including the STAR Ghana Foundation and the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI). Financial and technical support for the centre was provided by Comic Relief and the United Kingdom’s Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). The centre is specifically equipped to offer comprehensive training in various high-tech fields, including digital literacy, computer coding, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), as well as robotics and practical innovation. Anita Ampofoa Amoako-Gyimah, the Founder of CfSNI, highlighted the transformative potential of the facility during the launch ceremony. She emphasized that providing rural children with early exposure to technology is critical for fostering creativity and developing complex problem-solving skills. According to Amoako-Gyimah, the centre is not just a building but a hub for future-focused learning that will empower children to compete in a global economy by providing them with essential skills for future careers. Community leaders and local representatives expressed hope for the centre’s positive impact on future generations, noting that such infrastructure is vital for the development of the area. They encouraged students and the wider community to take full advantage of the resources provided to enhance their technical proficiency. As the centre begins its operations, it serves as a model for how non-governmental partnerships can support the national goal of increasing digital inclusion across Ghana’s rural landscape.

Haruna Iddrisu - Minister of Education
education|

Haruna Iddrisu announces GH₵917m for No-Fees-Stress student policy

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has announced that the government has allocated GH₵917 million to fund the No-Fees-Stress Policy, a major initiative aimed at eliminating financial barriers for tertiary students. The program, which was launched by President John Mahama, has already supported 321,807 students in public and technical universities across the country. This funding is drawn from the Consolidated Fund as part of the Ministry of Education’s broader budgetary commitment to making higher education more accessible to all eligible Ghanaians. A critical component of the policy involves the Students Loan Trust Fund (SLTF), which is providing bridge financing specifically for first-year students. This intervention ensures that prospective students who have been offered admission but lack the immediate funds for academic fees do not lose their placements. Under this arrangement, the SLTF advances the required fee deposits directly to the respective tertiary institutions. Eligible students can apply for this immediate support through the No-Fees-Stress Portal, allowing for a seamless transition into university life without the immediate burden of upfront costs. The policy’s reach is extensive, encompassing various enhancements in student financing, including support for law students and future funding for medical education. While the implementation has faced some logistical challenges regarding the timely release of budgetary funds, the government emphasizes its ongoing commitment to the program. The initiative is designed to alleviate the financial burden on families while ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder academic progress. The No-Fees-Stress Policy serves as a cornerstone of the Mahama administration's strategy to humanize the cost of higher education and increase the national tertiary enrollment rate. By shifting the immediate financial responsibility through the state-backed student loan and grant system, the government aims to create a more equitable academic environment. Officials maintain that this investment is a long-term strategy to develop a highly skilled workforce capable of driving Ghana's national development.

A man wearing a red headpiece and scarf speaks at a podium during a press conference or protest. A woman in similar red attire is seated behind him, suggesting a collective show of mourning or grievance common in Ghanaian public demonstrations.
education|

National Food Suppliers Association demands urgent payment for 2024 arrears

Members of the National Food Suppliers Association are appealing for the immediate settlement of outstanding debts owed for supplies provided to the Free Senior High School (SHS) program since 2024. The association warns that the prolonged delay in payments has triggered a severe financial and humanitarian crisis, leaving many suppliers unable to sustain their business operations or afford essential personal needs. The backlog of payments has reportedly placed an immense strain on the private partners responsible for maintaining food security within the nation's second-cycle institutions. Agnes Abedua, president of the association, described a dire situation where members are struggling with mounting debt and deteriorating health. She highlighted that some suppliers have tragically lost family members because they lacked the necessary funds to pay for medical treatments. Many individuals in the association are facing intense pressure from creditors and financial institutions, having relied on high-interest loans to fulfill their supply contracts. The emotional and physical toll on these business owners has escalated as they wait for the government to fulfill its financial obligations, with many reporting that their livelihoods are on the brink of collapse. The suppliers are urging the government to intervene and resolve the payment issues to ensure the continued viability of the food supply chain for the Free SHS program. They emphasize that their ability to continue supporting the national education initiative depends entirely on the timely reimbursement of their costs. Without a swift resolution, the association cautions that the stability of the school feeding system remains at risk, which could ultimately impact the well-being of thousands of students across the country.

Haruna Iddrisu — Minister of Education
education|

Haruna Iddrisu rejects Dr Bawumia's claims of Free SHS food shortages

The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has categorically dismissed claims made by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) regarding food shortages in the nation’s senior high schools. Addressing allegations recently put forward by the NPP’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Minister asserted that the Free Senior High School (SHS) program remains adequately resourced. He emphasized that students are receiving their meals as scheduled and that the reported "no food" crisis is a misrepresentation of the current reality on the ground. To support the program's sustainability, Iddrisu highlighted the strategic funding mechanisms established under the administration of President John Mahama. He revealed that the government has committed a significant $300 million investment toward improving educational infrastructure across the country. This capital injection is intended to address the growing needs of the student population and ensure that the physical environment supports the ambitious goals of the free education policy. According to the Minister, these investments are proof of the government's long-term commitment to quality education. In response to the political discourse surrounding the program, the Minister urged the public and the media to verify the status of food supplies directly with parents and students. He argued that the lived experiences of those within the school system contradict the narrative being promoted by the opposition. Beyond the issues of food and infrastructure, Iddrisu also took the opportunity to address the ongoing teachers' strike. He assured the public that the government is actively working to resolve the industrial action, emphasizing that the welfare of educators remains a priority alongside student wellbeing. The dismissal of these claims marks a critical point in the ongoing debate over the management of Ghana's education sector. By highlighting both the immediate availability of food and the substantial infrastructure investments, the Ministry of Education aims to reinforce public confidence in the Free SHS initiative. As the administration continues to navigate challenges such as labor disputes and political scrutiny, the focus remains on maintaining the stability and effectiveness of the nation's educational framework under President Mahama’s leadership.

Gordon Awandare warns GAUA strike could collapse UG academic calendar
education|

Gordon Awandare warns GAUA strike could collapse UG academic calendar

The Pro-Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana (UG), Professor Gordon Awandare, has warned that the university’s 2026/2027 academic calendar is at risk of collapse. The warning follows a strike by the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA) that has now lasted more than two months. The industrial action has halted critical administrative functions across the institution, including student registration, which is essential for the commencement of the new semester. University management is particularly concerned as teaching is scheduled to begin on October 19. Professor Awandare noted that if the strike extends into next week, it may be impossible to maintain the planned schedule. The disruption has already affected access to vital university services and created a bottleneck in the registration process for both new and returning students. Management has appealed to the government for an urgent resolution to prevent a total shutdown of academic activities. The strike, which began in August, is driven by unresolved grievances concerning conditions of service and disparities in allowances. GAUA National General Secretary Charles Jojo Aidoo reported that two months of negotiations with the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) have yielded minimal progress. According to the association, many of their concerns regarding non-monetary benefits and administrative disparities have persisted since 2008 without being adequately addressed by successive governments. Despite the current stalemate, GAUA leadership has expressed hope that ongoing discussions with the FWSC might reach a breakthrough by the end of the month. However, the association maintains that its members remain frustrated by the slow pace of negotiations. As the October 19 deadline approaches, the integrity of the University of Ghana’s academic timeline depends on a swift agreement between the government and the university administrators.

Benjamin Arthur, the Chief Executive of the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC), is seen delivering a speech from a podium. He is wearing a blue suit and glasses, speaking at an event hosted by Accra Technical University as indicated by the background and watermark.
education|

Council of State invites teacher unions for talks to end strike

The Council of State has invited representatives from Ghana's pre-tertiary teacher unions to a meeting on Friday, October 9, at 1:00 p.m. to resolve the ongoing nationwide strike. The discussions will focus on the key grievances that led to the industrial action, including delayed promotion payments, the renewal of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, and allowances for teachers in deprived areas. This intervention follows a period of heightened tension as the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and other unions have been off duty since late September. In a move to address administrative delays, the Controller and Accountant-General, Kwasi Agyei, reported that his department is currently verifying promotion input forms for 52,000 teachers. This validation exercise is expected to be completed by next week, with salary adjustments and arrears payments anticipated to hit teacher accounts by October 15 or 16. The processing of these records follows a directive from Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, who has committed the government to resolving all outstanding union concerns by October 30, 2026. While the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has been holding parallel meetings, Chief Executive Dr. George Smith-Graham noted that recent discussions remained inconclusive and required further consultation with stakeholders. The FWSC also took the opportunity to refute reports claiming it intended to deduct salaries from striking teachers for missed workdays, emphasizing its focus on dialogue rather than punitive measures. Meanwhile, Deputy Education Minister Dr. Clement Apaak and Tourism Minister Dzifa Gomashie have both appealed for teachers to return to classrooms, describing the government’s stance as non-antagonistic and pleading for the sake of the students. The impact of the strike is being felt most acutely by final-year senior high school students, who have expressed significant anxiety over lost instructional time ahead of their West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). On the political front, Kingsley Agyemang, an MP on the Education Committee, cautioned that the industrial action reflects a deep loss of confidence in the government's ability to fulfill its promises. He urged the administration to prioritize timely salary payments to stabilize the academic calendar and restore trust within the education sector.

Hammond Agyen wins 4x4 pick-up in 2026 Ghana Teacher Prize
education|

Hammond Agyen wins 4x4 pick-up in 2026 Ghana Teacher Prize

Hammond Agyen, a dedicated educator from Manhean Anglican ‘D’ Primary School, has been officially presented with a brand-new 4x4 pick-up truck by Universal Merchant Bank (UMB). The presentation marks his achievement as the first runner-up in the Teacher category of the 2026 Ghana Teacher Prize. This recognition took place during a high-profile ceremony held at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), organized to coincide with World Teachers’ Day celebrations. The event, which was held under the theme "Empowering Teachers: Architects of the Future," featured the attendance of Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, who honored the immense contributions of teachers to the nation’s socio-economic fabric. UMB’s sponsorship of the prize reflects its commitment to corporate social responsibility within the education sector. By providing a vehicle to the first runner-up, the bank aims to highlight the dedication required to excel in teaching and to encourage others in the profession to strive for excellence. Representing UMB, Edem Knight-Tay noted that the bank shares the value of reliability with the teaching profession. She explained that just as teachers are the reliable bedrock of future generations, UMB strives to be a reliable partner in Ghana’s financial landscape. Upon receiving the keys to the vehicle, Mr. Agyen expressed his deep appreciation to both the organizers and UMB. He emphasized that the recognition is a testament to the importance of teachers in society’s development and expressed hope that such awards would continue to inspire educators to give their best in the classroom. The Ghana Teacher Prize serves as the country's premier platform for acknowledging pedagogical excellence and rewarding the hard work of those in the education sector. This year’s award to Mr. Agyen underscores the ongoing collaboration between the government and private sector partners to incentivize professional performance. As the 2026 first runner-up, Mr. Agyen joins a prestigious list of educators whose impact on the lives of their students has earned them national acclaim.

PESCOSA to break ground for new Peki SHS entrance gate on October 9
education|

PESCOSA to break ground for new Peki SHS entrance gate on October 9

The Peki Senior High School Old Students’ Association (PESCOSA) is scheduled to hold a sod-cutting ceremony on Friday, 9 October 2026, to officially initiate the construction of a new entrance gate for the institution. Located in the South Dayi District of the Volta Region, this infrastructure project is designed to modernize the school’s main point of entry while strengthening its visual identity within the local community. The initiative marks a significant effort by the alumni body to contribute directly to the physical development of their alma mater. PESCOSA National President David Kwame Aziago is leading the project, which will feature a contemporary design incorporating the school’s name and official crest. Mr. Aziago has emphasized that the construction of the gate is a priority for the association, aimed at enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the campus. He noted that the project is a testament to the commitment of former students to ensuring the school maintains a standard of excellence in its facilities, which in turn fosters a sense of pride among current students and staff. The upcoming ceremony is expected to be a high-profile event, bringing together various stakeholders including the Paramount Chief of the Peki Traditional Area, Deiga Kwadzo Dei XII. Local education officials and a broad representation of PESCOSA members from different year groups are also slated to attend. This collective gathering underscores the collaborative spirit behind the initiative and highlights the importance of community and traditional support in achieving educational infrastructure goals. By undertaking this project, PESCOSA aims to inspire further alumni-led developments at Peki Senior High School and beyond. Mr. Aziago has invited all former students to contribute to the school's growth, suggesting that such initiatives are essential for supplementing government efforts. As the school continues its mission to provide quality education in the Volta Region, the new entrance gate will serve as a symbol of the enduring bond between the institution and its graduates.

Most Rev. Dr Paul Kwabena Boafo, immediate past Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church Ghana
education|

Christian Council of Ghana calls for protection of mission school identity

The Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) has formally called for educational reforms designed to protect the religious identity of mission-founded schools while ensuring students' constitutional rights are upheld. During a forum held on October 5, the Council emphasized the need for a framework that respects the traditions of faith-based institutions without compromising the fundamental freedoms of thought and education guaranteed to every Ghanaian citizen. The Most Rev. Dr. Paul Kwabena Boafo, speaking on behalf of the Council, highlighted the essential role of Articles 21 and 25 of the 1992 Constitution. These articles secure the right to education and the freedom of conscience and belief. Dr. Boafo noted that while mission schools have historically been pillars of literacy and civic education in the country, there is an urgent need for constitutional safeguards to prevent religious discrimination. This includes ensuring that school processes, from admissions to daily activities, do not unfairly disadvantage students based on their personal faith. In its advocacy, the Christian Council expressed support for the recommendations put forward by the Constitutional Review Committee. The Council argues that preserving the religious character of these institutions is possible alongside a rigorous respect for individual rights. By seeking these reforms, the CCG aims to provide clarity for school administrators and parents alike, fostering an environment where religious heritage and modern constitutional requirements can coexist harmoniously in the national education system.