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.

Officials and some beneficiary young women who attended the event
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CAMFED Executive Director Safian Empowers 791 Tertiary Scholars to Challenge Stereotypes and Lead

Fairuza Abdul-Rahman Safian, the Executive Director of CAMFED Ghana, has challenged 791 young women to reject societal stereotypes and aggressively pursue their professional ambitions. Speaking at the 2026 Tertiary Convening orientation held at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Safian addressed the latest cohort of the CAMFED Tertiary Scholarship Programme. The initiative, which provides comprehensive support for tuition and academic-related expenses, is designed to empower marginalized young women to navigate the complexities of higher education and transition successfully into leadership roles. During her address, Safian emphasized that academic excellence must be complemented by a diverse set of practical skills to meet contemporary global demands. She urged the beneficiaries to look beyond their textbooks and cultivate expertise in digital literacy, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Furthermore, Safian highlighted the critical importance of mentorship and networking, encouraging the students to not only seek guidance but also to act as bridges for other marginalized girls following in their footsteps. She reminded the cohort that their personal character and integrity would play a pivotal role in their ultimate success and their ability to influence their communities. Contributing to the discourse, Charity Maame Ekua Adupong, CEO of Meannan Foods, reinforced the necessity of strategic technology use for personal and national growth. She urged the young women to leverage digital tools for self-improvement and professional advancement while calling for sustained governmental support for youth development programs. By combining financial aid with soft-skills training and mentorship, CAMFED Ghana aims to create a sustainable pipeline of female leaders ready to contribute to the nation's socioeconomic development. The orientation serves as a foundation for these students to begin their tertiary journey with a clear vision of their potential as change-makers.

African leaders push for higher education transformation in Accra
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African Leaders and Mastercard Foundation Launch $500m Higher Education Initiative in Accra

Leaders from across the continent gathered in Accra for the inaugural Higher Education Transformation Convening, a landmark event aimed at reshaping Africa's academic landscape to better serve its burgeoning youth population. Hosted by the Mastercard Foundation, the convening brought together cross-sector leaders to address the urgent need for education systems that directly translate into economic participation and workforce readiness. A central highlight of the gathering was the announcement of a massive $500 million commitment toward transformative initiatives, signaling a significant shift in how higher education is funded and prioritized across the region. The event also featured the presentation of the first-ever Africa Higher Education for Transformation Prize, which recognized institutions demonstrating exceptional leadership in systemic reform. Among the laureates were prominent institutions including Ghana’s Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and Ethiopia’s Addis Ababa University. Other recognized institutions hailed from Burkina Faso, Uganda, and Rwanda, each rewarded for their commitment to implementing meaningful changes that bridge the gap between traditional academia and the evolving demands of the modern job market. Strategic discussions throughout the convening centered on three core pillars: aligning curricula with industry requirements, fostering research that informs community and industry practices, and promoting innovation. Participants emphasized that for African universities to be truly effective, they must move beyond theory and ensure their graduates possess the technical and soft skills required by employers. Furthermore, the role of young people was highlighted as pivotal, with leaders calling for students to be active participants in the design and implementation of the educational policies that directly affect their futures. As the Mastercard Foundation continues to leverage education to create stronger pathways for youth employment, the Accra convening sets a new standard for continental collaboration. By focusing on systemic transformation rather than incremental changes, the initiative seeks to create a sustainable model where higher education serves as a primary engine for Africa’s economic development. The success of these programs is expected to provide a blueprint for other institutions across the continent, ensuring that Africa's youth are not just educated, but empowered to lead in a competitive global economy.

The logo for the Ghana Climate Literacy Portal (GCLP), featuring a circular design with a map of Ghana and a sun icon. The color palette includes shades of green and blue, symbolizing environmental and climate themes.
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Ghana Climate Literacy Portal Emerges as Key Digital Resource for National Climate Education and Advocacy

The Ghana Climate Literacy Portal (GCLP) has established itself as the nation’s premier open-access digital learning platform, bridging the gap between climate science and public action. As Ghana's first national initiative of its kind, the GCLP is designed to provide free, comprehensive resources to empower citizens with the knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of environmental change. By aligning with the principles of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement, the portal serves as a critical tool for advancing climate literacy not only within Ghana but across the African continent. At the heart of the GCLP is a diverse curriculum tailored to various levels of expertise, ranging from introductory modules to specialized professional insights. A cornerstone of the platform is the "Climate 101" course, which features eight structured modules and interactive quizzes to ensure a deep understanding of climate science fundamentals. Beyond basic science, the portal offers advanced coursework in areas such as climate advocacy, the built environment, and complex climate negotiations. These courses are developed and taught by experts, ensuring that the information provided is both academically rigorous and practically applicable for those seeking to make a tangible impact. The platform's efficacy is demonstrated through its integration into broader environmental initiatives, such as the Climate Activist Program (CAP 26). Participants in these programs utilize the GCLP to gain the skills required for effective advocacy and informed decision-making. By providing a structured pathway for learning, the portal has become a catalyst for individual transformation, turning passive observers into active participants in the global climate response. The author of the source material reflects on how the portal’s modules shaped their own passion for climate action, reinforcing the idea that education is the foundation of effective advocacy. As climate change continues to pose significant challenges to Ghana’s development, the GCLP represents a vital investment in the country's intellectual infrastructure. By democratizing access to high-quality climate education, the platform ensures that the next generation of leaders, professionals, and activists are well-equipped to drive sustainable solutions. Looking forward, the portal is expected to continue expanding its reach, fostering a more climate-aware citizenry capable of demanding and implementing the policy changes necessary for a resilient future.

UPSA Vice-Chancellor Blocks Graduation of 178 Students Over Mass Academic Results Manipulation
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UPSA Vice-Chancellor Blocks Graduation of 178 Students Over Mass Academic Results Manipulation

The University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) has suspended the graduation of 178 students after an internal investigation revealed a massive results manipulation scheme involving over 500 compromised academic records. Vice-Chancellor Prof. John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor announced the decision during the university’s 18th Congregation on September 26, 2026, describing the breach of academic integrity as both unacceptable and unprecedented in the institution's history. The scale of the manipulation has prompted the university to put a hold on all implicated candidates' academic progression until further notice. Investigations into the scandal uncovered a sophisticated operation where students allegedly colluded with individuals to breach the university's information technology systems. According to Prof. Mawutor, some of the implicated students—including those at the postgraduate level—confessed to paying for their grades to be altered, while others acted as intermediaries, collecting funds from their peers to facilitate the fraud. This deliberate interference with the university’s database led to the falsification of more than 500 individual results across various departments, undermining the academic standards of the institution. The Vice-Chancellor commended the university's investigative team for their diligence in uncovering the scheme but expressed deep concern over the moral implications of such actions. He noted that while minor instances of result discrepancies have occurred in the past, the scale of this current manipulation is "unprecedented." The university administration has made it clear that maintaining the sanctity of its degrees is paramount. Consequently, all students linked to the scheme will remain barred from graduating until the investigation is fully concluded and appropriate disciplinary or legal measures are determined. This crackdown on academic fraud highlights the ongoing efforts of Ghanaian higher education institutions to bolster cybersecurity and internal auditing processes. For UPSA, the immediate priority remains the restoration of trust in its grading system and the protection of the value of its certificates. As the investigation continues, the university has signaled its intent to root out all participants in the scheme, reinforcing its stance that academic achievement must be earned through merit rather than financial inducement or technological manipulation.

Teacher unions go on strike - Education Ministry calls for meeting Monday
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Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu Convenes Emergency Meeting as Teacher Unions Launch Nationwide Strike

The Ministry of Education has summoned the leadership of Ghana’s three major pre-tertiary teacher unions to an emergency meeting on Monday, September 28, 2026, in a bid to end an indefinite nationwide strike. The industrial action, which began on September 25, involves the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Pre-Tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana (PRETAG). Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu is expected to lead negotiations to address a suite of unresolved grievances, most notably unpaid promotion arrears and the failure to finalize a new Collective Agreement. Central to the unions' frustrations is the non-payment of the 20% Deprived Area Allowance, a benefit intended to incentivize educators working in hard-to-reach regions. King Ali Awudu, President of PRETAG, highlighted that while this allowance was proposed as far back as 2009, it remains unimplemented despite recent assurances from the administration of President John Mahama. The unions argue that the lack of this allowance, combined with hazardous travel conditions and the absence of automatic salary adjustments for promoted staff, has left teachers in remote areas particularly vulnerable. The Minority in Parliament has joined these calls, urging the government to ensure that all promoted teachers receive their salary adjustments retroactively from January 2026. The strike has also drawn sharp commentary from civil society and internal union advocates. Franklin Cudjoe, President of IMANI Africa, suggested that the unions should direct their pressure toward the Ghana Education Service (GES), blaming administrative delays within the service for the backlog in promotional letters and salary adjustments. Concurrently, educator Tabi Addo Godfred, popularly known as Teacher Tiawa, warned that the current division among teacher unions could undermine their collective bargaining power. He argued that a unified front is essential to securing lasting solutions rather than temporary concessions that lead to recurring strikes. As the meeting with the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission and other stakeholders approaches, the Ministry of Education has expressed deep concern regarding the strike's impact on the academic calendar. Press Secretary Hasmin Mohammed emphasized that the government remains committed to direct engagement to resolve the dispute and minimize further disruptions to student learning. The outcome of Monday’s negotiations will be critical in determining whether schools can reopen promptly or if the standoff between the state and its educators will intensify.

Her entire life reduced to being the wife” — Tochi warns against early marriage
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BBNaija’s Tochi Warns Against Early Marriage, Urges Young Women to Prioritize Education and Self-Discovery

Tochi Okechukwu, a former Big Brother Naija housemate and public figure, has sparked a vital conversation regarding the timing of marriage and its long-term impact on personal development. In a poignant social media address, Okechukwu cautioned young women against rushing into early marriage, arguing that premature domesticity can significantly stifle a woman's dreams and professional ambitions. His message centers on the necessity of self-discovery and the establishment of an individual identity before entering into a lifelong marital commitment. Central to Okechukwu’s warning is the concern that marrying too early can lead to a complete loss of personal agency. He expressed a pointed worry that when a woman marries before establishing her own path, her "entire life [is] reduced to being the wife," rather than being recognized for her own unique talents or potential. By prioritizing domestic roles over personal growth during formative years, women risk forfeiting their independence and the ability to pursue individual goals that could have otherwise defined their futures. He emphasized that marriage should be approached with careful consideration of timing to ensure it does not become a barrier to personal success. Instead of immediate matrimony, the reality TV star urged young women to place a higher priority on formal education and achieving financial self-sufficiency. He suggested that building a foundation of knowledge and professional stability is essential for a balanced and healthy life. By focusing on these pillars first, women are better equipped to navigate the complexities of partnership without losing their sense of self. This advocacy highlights the importance of the educational journey as a tool for empowerment, ensuring that women enter marriages as equal partners with their own established backgrounds. As a public figure with a significant reach, Okechukwu’s stance reflects an evolving cultural dialogue about the roles of women in modern society. While his comments specifically targeted the potential pitfalls of early marriage, they serve as a broader call for young women to take agency over their life timelines. The discussion he has initiated underscores a growing sentiment that personal empowerment and educational attainment are not just individual benefits, but necessary precursors to building sustainable and equitable family structures in the 21st century.

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GES Issues Stern Warning to SHS Heads Over Unauthorized Fees and Compulsory PTA Dues

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has issued a stern warning to heads of Senior High Schools (SHS) and Senior High Technical Schools (SHTS) nationwide, ordering an immediate halt to the collection of unauthorized fees. This directive follows reports of school administrators demanding payments from parents and guardians of newly admitted first-year students, a practice that the GES asserts directly contradicts the government’s free education policy. As the 2026 academic year commences, the GES management emphasizes that no student should be denied entry or burdened by financial demands outside the approved national framework. Central to this warning is the collection of admission fees and Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) dues. The GES clarified that parents and guardians must not be compelled to pay these charges as a condition for enrollment. Notably, the service reminded school heads that the legality and collection of PTA dues are currently the subject of an ongoing judicial review, making any forced collection particularly problematic under current regulations. The management has explicitly mandated that any school head who has already collected such unauthorized funds must refund them to the parents immediately to avoid further conflict. The crackdown comes as a significant wave of students begins their secondary education journey. According to GES data, 87.3% of qualified candidates have been successfully placed in various institutions for the current cycle, with students officially reporting to their assigned schools as of September 18, 2026. To ensure compliance with the directive, the GES has signaled that it will not hesitate to apply administrative sanctions against heads of schools who ignore these instructions. This move is intended to protect the integrity of the free SHS program and ensure that financial barriers do not hinder the progress of the thousands of newly placed students. Ultimately, this directive serves as a reminder of the government’s commitment to maintaining the affordability and accessibility of secondary education in Ghana. By addressing these unauthorized fees, the GES aims to alleviate the financial pressure typically felt by families during the admission season. Parents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any instances of extortion or unauthorized billing to the relevant educational authorities. As the academic term progresses, the GES says it will continue to monitor school heads' adherence to these policy guidelines to ensure a smooth transition for all first-year students.

Over 3,000 Ghanaian Students Explore U.S. Higher Education Opportunities at Kumasi EducationUSA Fair
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Over 3,000 Ghanaian Students Explore U.S. Higher Education Opportunities at Kumasi EducationUSA Fair

More than 3,000 students from across Ghana's secondary and tertiary institutions gathered in Kumasi to participate in the EducationUSA College Fair, seeking opportunities to further their studies in the United States. The event served as a major platform for aspiring scholars to engage directly with representatives from over 20 prominent American universities. These institutions provided comprehensive information regarding admission processes, visa requirements, and available scholarship programs, highlighting the diverse academic pathways available to international students. Throughout the fair, EducationUSA advisers and university officials provided both in-person and virtual guidance to assist students in navigating the complexities of international applications. This hands-on approach aimed to bolster student confidence and establish direct connections with U.S. institutions. For many attendees, the fair offered a unique opportunity to demystify the requirements for studying abroad and to explore financial aid options that make high-level education more accessible to talented Ghanaian youth. The high turnout at the Kumasi event underscores Ghana's significant role in international education, as the country currently ranks as the second-highest sender of students to the United States from Sub-Saharan Africa. Education officials emphasized that these academic exchanges are fundamental to national development, as they equip students with global perspectives and specialized skills. Such collaborations in higher education are viewed as a vital component of fostering innovation and long-term socio-economic growth within Ghana. As the trend of educational mobility continues to rise, the success of this fair points toward a strengthening partnership between Ghanaian and American educational sectors. Organizers noted that ensuring students have access to accurate and transparent information is crucial for their success on the global stage. Looking ahead, the focus remains on maintaining these international ties to ensure that Ghana's future leaders are well-prepared to contribute to both local and global progress through world-class training and exchange.

Haruna Iddrisu (seated middle), Minister of Education, addressing the media
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Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu Announces Ghana to Host High-Level Global Conference on Crisis-Affected Learning

Ghana is set to become the focal point for global discussions on education in crisis zones as it hosts the Second High-Level Conference on Scaling Education Initiatives in Emergencies (EiE). Scheduled for September 29-30, 2026, the two-day summit will bring together stakeholders to address the dire educational gaps faced by millions of children caught in the crosshairs of conflict and environmental catastrophes. Organized by Associates for Change in collaboration with various international partners, the conference underscores Ghana's commitment to leading regional efforts in ensuring learning continuity despite the increasing frequency of humanitarian emergencies. Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, emphasizing the urgency of the situation, revealed that more than 72 million children worldwide are currently out of school due to ongoing crises. West Africa remains one of the most significantly impacted regions, where a combination of armed conflict and natural disasters has disrupted traditional schooling systems. The Minister noted that the conference would focus on synthesizing policy-relevant evidence to enhance both the access to and the quality of education for these vulnerable populations, aiming to transform theoretical research into actionable interventions. A critical component of the upcoming discussions will be the role of climate change in exacerbating educational instability. Recent years have seen a surge in school closures across the sub-region due to severe flooding and mass displacement. These environmental stressors not only destroy physical infrastructure but also create long-term barriers to learning for displaced youth. The conference aims to develop resilient educational frameworks that can withstand such shocks, ensuring that the right to education is protected even in the face of escalating climate-related disasters. As the host nation, Ghana seeks to leverage this platform to foster cross-border cooperation and secure sustainable funding for emergency education initiatives. By bringing together policymakers, researchers, and development partners, the event is expected to produce a roadmap for scaling successful pilot programs into national and regional policies. The ultimate goal is to provide a lifeline for millions of children, ensuring that the disruption of their present circumstances does not permanently derail their future opportunities.

New UCC Vice-Chancellor visits Prudential Bank, pledges stronger partnership
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Professor Denis Worlanyo Aheto, New UCC Vice-Chancellor, Pledges Enhanced Collaboration with Prudential Bank

Professor Denis Worlanyo Aheto, the newly appointed Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), has paid a strategic working visit to the management of Prudential Bank Limited to reinforce the long-standing relationship between the two institutions. During the meeting with the bank's Acting Managing Director, Mr. Ebow Quayson, the Vice-Chancellor emphasized the importance of private-sector partnerships in advancing the university's academic and developmental goals. The visit marks one of the Vice-Chancellor's early initiatives to align the university's growth with sustainable financial support and community development. Discussions during the visit centered on enhancing student financial services, providing robust educational support, and fostering community-led initiatives. Mr. Ebow Quayson praised the university for its enduring partnership with the bank and reaffirmed Prudential Bank's commitment to supporting the institution's educational vision. He noted that the bank remains dedicated to providing tailored financial solutions that cater to the needs of the academic community, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder educational progress for the youth. Outlining his vision for the university, Professor Aheto highlighted a focus on faculty upgrades and the integration of sustainability initiatives into the school's core operations. He specifically pointed to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4)—which focuses on inclusive and equitable quality education—as a guiding framework for his administration. By aligning with these global standards, the Vice-Chancellor aims to ensure that UCC provides a competitive and accessible environment for both staff and students through modern infrastructure and resource availability. This renewed partnership is expected to pave the way for innovative projects that bridge the gap between academia and the financial sector. As the University of Cape Coast enters this new leadership era under Professor Aheto, the collaboration with Prudential Bank serves as a model for how corporate institutions can contribute to the sustainability of higher education in Ghana. Both parties have pledged to maintain an open dialogue to ensure that the evolving needs of the university community are met with efficient and impactful financial interventions.

Management and students of the College have called for urgent infrastructure development to promote effective teching and learning .
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Nkanchina Nursing College Appeals for Infrastructure Support to Secure Diploma Accreditation

The College of Community Health Nursing at Nkanchina, located in the Kpandai District of the Northern Region, is facing a critical infrastructure deficit that threatens its academic progression. Despite being established six years ago with the mission to train healthcare professionals for Ghana's most underserved rural areas, the institution continues to operate out of dilapidated facilities originally constructed for leprosy treatment. This lack of modern development has resulted in a significant delay in the college's efforts to secure accreditation for diploma-level programmes, leaving its growing student body and faculty in a state of administrative limbo. Currently home to over 500 students, the college is grappling with a severe shortage of essential amenities necessary for medical training. Beyond the inadequate classroom space, the institution suffers from inconsistent electricity and a near-total lack of reliable internet connectivity, both of which are indispensable for modern healthcare education and research. Furthermore, transportation remains a major hurdle for both staff and students in the remote district, complicating daily operations and the logistics of clinical placements. The continued reliance on repurposed leprosy treatment structures highlights a chronic level of underinvestment since the college’s inception. Management has issued an urgent appeal to the government and relevant stakeholders to intervene with a comprehensive infrastructure boost. They maintain that without the construction of modern lecture halls, laboratories, and the provision of stable utilities, the college cannot meet the stringent requirements set by regulatory bodies for diploma accreditation. Securing this upgrade is vital not only for the professional advancement of the students but also for the broader healthcare security of the Northern Region, which relies heavily on the community nurses trained at Nkanchina to staff rural health posts and provide primary care to isolated populations.

Officials and some beneficiary young women who attended the event
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CAMFED Ghana Empowers 791 Young Women to Defy Stereotypes at KNUST Tertiary Scholarship Orientation

Fairuza Abdul-Rahman Safian, the Executive Director of CAMFED Ghana, has issued a powerful call to 791 young women to reject societal stereotypes and pursue their ambitions with vigor. Speaking at the 2026 CAMFED Tertiary Scholarship Programme orientation held at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Safian emphasized that marginalized backgrounds should not define the limits of a woman's potential. The scholarship program provides critical financial support, covering tuition and academic-related expenses for beneficiaries entering higher education, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder their academic journeys. Beyond financial aid, the orientation served as a platform to prepare the scholars for the complexities of modern professional and personal life. Safian urged the students to cultivate a diverse skill set that extends far beyond traditional academic excellence. She specifically highlighted the necessity of digital literacy, leadership abilities, and an entrepreneurial mindset as essential tools for success in the contemporary global economy. Furthermore, she stressed the vital importance of mentorship and building robust networks, encouraging the young women to become supportive figures who create pathways for others following in their footsteps. Supporting this vision of holistic development, Charity Maame Ekua Adupong, CEO of Meannan Foods, advised the scholars to utilize technology effectively for personal growth rather than as a source of distraction. She underscored the role of strong character in achieving long-term success and called on the government to continue prioritizing youth development initiatives that foster national progress. The event concluded by reinforcing CAMFED Ghana’s commitment to not only providing education but also building the professional resilience of the next generation of female leaders, ensuring they are equipped to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s socio-economic landscape.