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.

CHASS demands 20% increase in senior high school operational funding
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CHASS demands 20% increase in senior high school operational funding

The Conference of Heads of Assisted Secondary Schools (CHASS) has formally requested a 20% increase in the operational funding provided to senior high schools across Ghana. Speaking at the 64th annual CHASS conference held in Ho, the organization's President, Rev. Fr. Stephen Owusu Sekyere, explained that current financial allocations are no longer sufficient to meet the rising costs of running educational institutions. He emphasized that an immediate upward review is necessary to ensure that schools can continue to function effectively under current economic conditions. According to Rev. Fr. Owusu Sekyere, chronic delays and inadequate funding have severely hampered the day-to-day operations of various schools. These financial constraints have made it difficult for administrators to provide essential resources for practical lessons and science examinations, and have occasionally impacted food supplies for students. CHASS is also calling on the government to urgently settle outstanding debts owed to regulatory creditors, noting that these liabilities have placed additional strain on the administrative capacity of school heads. Beyond direct funding, the conference highlighted critical gaps in school infrastructure that require urgent attention. Rev. Fr. Owusu Sekyere pointed to a shortage of classroom furniture and the need for improved school transportation as areas where government investment is vital. He argued that providing a conducive learning environment is just as important as covering operational costs, as both factors directly influence student performance and staff morale. Finally, CHASS raised concerns regarding the use of government-provided tablets by students. While acknowledging the importance of digital tools in modern education, the organization recommended that the government implement stricter controls to restrict social media access on these devices. By limiting distractions, CHASS believes students will be better able to focus on their academic work and utilize the technology for its intended educational purposes.

Ten Ghanaian institutions receive GH‵7m grant to train forestry experts
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Ten Ghanaian institutions receive GH‵7m grant to train forestry experts

Ten Ghanaian institutions, including public universities and the Forestry Commission, have been awarded a GH‵7 million grant to strengthen national efforts against environmental degradation. The funding, provided by Global Affairs Canada in partnership with Lakehead University, is designed to enhance technical expertise within the forestry sector. This initiative specifically targets the restoration of degraded landscapes while fostering international academic collaboration between Ghana and Canada. Under the program, 36 Ghanaians will receive specialized training in critical fields such as wood science and ecological remediation. The participating organizations include various public universities and private companies, alongside the Forestry Commission. By equipping these scholars with advanced technological skills, the project aims to introduce more effective methods for monitoring and combating illegal mining and deforestation, which continue to threaten Ghana’s natural resources. A significant aspect of the grant is its commitment to gender equity, with a requirement that at least 51% of the scholarship recipients be women. This focus aims to empower women within the forest value chain and ensure diverse perspectives in environmental management. The GH‵7 million allocation is part of a larger $80 million funding program managed by Global Affairs Canada, signaling a long-term commitment to sustainable development and environmental resilience in Ghana.

KNUST reopens for 2026/2027 academic year despite GAUA strike
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KNUST reopens for 2026/2027 academic year despite GAUA strike

The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi has officially reopened for the 2026/2027 academic year, welcoming both fresh and continuing students to campus. This reopening occurs despite the ongoing industrial action by the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA), which has affected administrative services across public universities. The university administration has proceeded with the scheduled arrival of students, marking the beginning of the first semester of the new academic cycle. To facilitate the admission and registration process during the strike, the university has deployed skeletal staff to assist students and their parents. Dr. Daniel Norris Bekoe, the University Relations Officer, stated that these personnel are present to manage the hall registration process and help fresh students settle into their respective residences. While the full complement of administrative services is not available, the presence of these staff members ensures that the most critical entry-level processes can continue without major disruption. The academic calendar for this semester is set to run from October 2026 to February 2027, with lectures officially scheduled to begin on October 19. Students are currently utilizing the available university portals and on-campus assistance to complete their academic and residential registrations. The university's decision to maintain its schedule highlights an effort to avoid delays in the academic year, though the administrative backlog could grow if the labor dispute persists. The GAUA strike remains a significant factor in the background of this reopening. The association's members, who handle vital administrative and professional functions within the university, are seeking improvements to their conditions of service. As students prepare for the start of lectures, stakeholders will be monitoring the negotiations between the government and the administrators’ union to see how quickly full services can be restored to the Kumasi-based institution.

NaCCA approves Jimmy Aglah novel as supplementary reader
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NaCCA approves Jimmy Aglah novel as supplementary reader

The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) has officially approved the novel "When the River Testified" by Ghanaian author and media executive Jimmy Aglah for use as a supplementary reader. This endorsement marks a significant milestone for the author, as the book is now authorized for integration into the pre-tertiary education system across Ghana. The council's approval ensures that the narrative meets the pedagogical standards required to enhance the literary and social consciousness of students in their formative years. The novel focuses on themes of environmental responsibility and community involvement, aiming to provide a narrative that reflects the lived realities of young people in Ghana. By centering the story on local contexts and challenges, Aglah seeks to engage students in a way that traditional, foreign-authored texts might not. The book is intended to provoke critical thinking regarding societal and environmental issues, encouraging readers to consider their roles within their own communities. Aglah has emphasized that African stories are vital in education to help students identify with the characters and lessons presented in their coursework. With the official approval secured, the focus now shifts to ensuring the book reaches classrooms and libraries throughout the country. Aglah has expressed plans to partner with reputable publishing houses to facilitate widespread distribution. This collaboration is expected to make "When the River Testified" readily available to various educational institutions, further enriching the diversity of reading materials available to the Ghanaian youth. The integration of such locally authored works is seen as a key step in promoting indigenous literature and fostering a reading culture rooted in the African experience.

Akosua Achiaa Sarpong named best graduating student of Ghana School of Law
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Akosua Achiaa Sarpong named best graduating student of Ghana School of Law

Akosua Achiaa Sarpong has emerged as the 2026 Best Graduating Student of the Ghana School of Law, earning the top academic honor in one of the country's most competitive professional programs. The achievement distinguishes her among a cohort of newly qualified legal professionals recently called to the bar. Speaking following the recognition, Sarpong expressed a mixture of surprise and profound gratitude, noting that while she had hoped to earn an award, being named the overall best student was a significant milestone. In a recent interview on Joy Prime with Nikki Samonas, Sarpong reflected on the motivations that led her to the legal field. She shared that her interest in law was sparked by the confidence and prestige she observed in legal practitioners from a young age. This admiration fueled her dedication during the rigorous professional law course, where she aimed to emulate the excellence she had witnessed in the legal fraternity. Sarpong attributed her academic success to a combination of disciplined hard work and divine grace. She emphasized that her journey involved consistent effort and a focus on her studies, though she remained humble about the scale of her achievement. Her story has been highlighted as an example of academic excellence and perseverance within the Ghanaian legal education system. Looking toward her professional future, Sarpong has identified a clear specialization for her legal career. She revealed plans to focus on energy law, a sector that is increasingly vital to Ghana’s economic development and infrastructure. By choosing this specialized field, she intends to apply her legal expertise to the complex regulatory and commercial challenges of the energy industry, continuing the high standards of professionalism that first inspired her to join the bar.

Skills for Progress Africa Fellows tour Tema Oil Refinery
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Skills for Progress Africa fellows tour Tema Oil Refinery

Ten fellows from the inaugural cohort of the Skills for Progress Africa (SfP Africa) initiative have completed an educational tour of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) to gain practical insight into Ghana's industrial sector. The visit, conducted in partnership with ELAF Industrial Automation, provided the participants with a rare opportunity to observe refinery operations firsthand and engage with experienced professionals on-site. This initiative is part of a broader effort to equip young technical talents with the practical skills necessary to drive Africa’s industrial development. During the tour, the fellows were guided through various departments where they observed the technical and logistical complexities of refining crude oil. Managing Director Mr. Edmond Kombat, speaking during the engagement, urged the fellows to cultivate a mindset focused on problem-solving leadership. He emphasized that while academic credentials are important, the industrial sector places a higher premium on the tangible value and innovative solutions that professionals can bring to their roles. He encouraged the cohort to look beyond certificates and focus on how their skills can address real-world industrial challenges. The collaboration between Skills for Progress Africa and TOR represents a strategic move to bridge the persistent gap between academic training and industry requirements. By providing direct exposure to high-level industrial environments, the program aims to foster a new generation of technically skilled leaders. Looking ahead, the initiative intends to facilitate internship placements at the refinery, allowing the fellows to further refine their expertise through hands-on experience and mentorship within a professional setting.

Dr Ayesha Khanna, Global AI expert
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Dr Ayesha Khanna warns AI homework use linked to 24% lower exam scores

Global AI expert Dr. Ayesha Khanna has cautioned that students who depend on artificial intelligence tools to finish their homework without a fundamental understanding of the subject matter experience a significant decline in academic performance. Speaking at the IMF/World Bank annual meetings, she revealed that global research indicates such students perform nearly 24% worse in subsequent examinations compared to those who engage more deeply with their coursework. This warning comes as educational institutions worldwide grapple with the rapid integration of generative AI in the classroom. Dr. Khanna, who serves as the Co-Founder and CEO of Addo, emphasized that an over-reliance on AI could inadvertently erode critical thinking and the capacity for independent learning. While AI offers powerful capabilities, its use as a shortcut for assignments rather than a supplement to learning prevents students from internalizing key concepts. This lack of engagement becomes evident during exams where AI assistance is unavailable, leading to the observed drop in scores. She noted that the goal should be to enhance human intelligence, not replace it with automated responses. To address these challenges, Dr. Khanna urged education systems to proactively integrate AI literacy into their curricula without sacrificing core academic disciplines. She advocated for a balanced approach that encourages students to question information and participate in robust academic debate. By teaching students how to use AI effectively as a tool for inquiry rather than a replacement for effort, educators can better prepare the next generation for the complexities of an evolving global labor market while preserving the essential skills of logic and reason.

Some of the presenters and participants in the conference
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Professor Jonathan Fletcher notes 68% of teachers meet national standards

Professor Jonathan Fletcher, the founding Dean of the University of Ghana's School of Education and Leadership, has highlighted a significant improvement in teaching quality, noting that 68% of teachers now meet the National Teachers’ Standards. Speaking at the 10th TIME Educators’ Conference in Accra, he compared this figure to the less than 10% recorded in 2017, marking a substantial shift in the country's educational landscape over the last eight years. Fletcher emphasized the necessity of continuous learning, collaboration, and innovation among educators to sustain this progress. He argued that the modern classroom requires a departure from traditional teaching methods to better equip students with essential life skills, including critical thinking, creativity, and resilience. By fostering an environment of shared knowledge and professional development, Fletcher believes educators can more effectively prepare the next generation for the complexities of the contemporary world. A key component of the Professor's address was the ethical integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. He advocated for a careful, calculated approach to AI, suggesting that it should be used to enhance teaching methodologies rather than replace the fundamental role of the educator. According to Fletcher, the goal of incorporating such technology should be to deepen student engagement and support the development of higher-order thinking skills, provided its implementation remains grounded in ethical standards. The TIME Educators’ Conference, which served as the platform for these remarks, has seen remarkable growth since its inception in 2016. What began as a smaller gathering has expanded into a major event attracting over 1,000 participants and nearly 100 presenters. This growth reflects an increasing commitment within the Ghanaian educational sector to transform teaching practices through innovative research and professional networking.

GES committee recommends reposting of Obuasi SHTS headmaster in relation to August riot; fresh allegation of sexual misconduct under investigations
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Abdulai Zakaria suspended over sexual abuse claims at Obuasi SHTS

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has interdicted the headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS), Abdulai Zakaria, following a series of events involving a student riot and serious allegations of sexual misconduct. The decision comes after a GES committee reviewed a report concerning a riot on August 5, 2026, which led to the arrest of six students for damaging school property. While the committee initially recommended Zakaria’s reposting in relation to the unrest, he has since been suspended pending the outcome of a separate investigation into the alleged sexual abuse of female students. The allegations were brought to public attention through an investigative documentary by journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni titled "Inside the Dreaded Headmaster’s Bungalow." The report claims that Zakaria, who also serves as the Juabeng Constituency Secretary for the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), used his position to exploit students. Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has directed both the GES and the police to conduct a thorough inquiry into the claims. Despite his suspension, reports indicate that Zakaria is seeking election as an NDC constituency chairman, leading to public concerns that political influence may have delayed the investigation. Parliament’s Committee on Human Rights has called for swift justice, stating that the situation violates Ghana’s Children’s Act and international conventions on the rights of the child. The committee emphasized the need for higher ethical standards in the education sector and commended the Ministry of Education's intervention as more students come forward. Meanwhile, the Association of Women Lawyers, Ghana (AWLA) has used the case to advocate for the establishment of a National Sexual Offenders Register and mandatory background checks for all school personnel to prevent similar occurrences. Institutional data highlights a troubling trend in the education sector; a review by JoyNews Research tracked 44 cases of sexual abuse involving educators since 2015, with school heads implicated in 40% of recent incidents. In response to the Obuasi case, Dr. Issahaque Munawaru of the GES stated that any staff found guilty of such misconduct would face immediate dismissal. The GES committee's report included 27 recommendations aimed at improving school safety, enhancing reporting mechanisms for harassment, and ensuring stricter penalties for misconduct.

Ace Anan Ankomah (MOBA ’84), presenting the Mfantsipim Sesquicentennial Anthology to Kwadwo Morgan (middle), Executive Secretary, 150th Anniversary, as Captain Johnny Yamoah (right), Chairman, Anniversary Planning Committee, looks on
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MOBA launches 14-track musical anthology for Mfantsipim 150th anniversary

The Mfantsipim Old Boys Association (MOBA) has officially launched the "Mfantsipim Sesquicentennial Anthology," a 14-track musical collection created to celebrate the school's 150th anniversary. Unveiled at the MOBA Secretariat in Accra, the project is a centerpiece of the year-long celebrations being held under the theme, "A legacy of excellence, leadership and service to inspire the future." The anthology aims to preserve and honor the rich musical heritage that has defined the institution since its founding. The collection was compiled and produced by legal practitioner and alumnus Mr. Ace Anan Ankomah. It features a diverse range of recordings, including the school’s official hymn and anthem, historic hymns, highlife classics, and contemporary compositions. To ensure the music is accessible to the school community and alumni, Mr. Ankomah presented 1,000 pen drives containing the tracks. Furthermore, the association plans to raise funds for school projects through the sale of limited-edition vinyl records of the anthology, bridging the gap between historical tradition and modern digital preservation. In addition to the musical launch, MOBA has partnered with Ghanaian watchmaker Caveman Watch to produce commemorative merchandise. This partnership includes the creation of limited-edition, classic-style branded watches intended to serve as lasting keepsakes for the sesquicentennial milestone. The collaboration with Caveman Watch is expected to continue beyond the anniversary year, reflecting a commitment to celebrating the school's legacy through high-quality local craftsmanship. The 150th-anniversary celebrations are set to culminate in November, marking a century and a half of Mfantsipim’s influence on Ghana’s educational and leadership landscape. Mr. Ankomah highlighted that the musical project is intended to honor the forebears whose vision built the school and its enduring culture. By documenting these significant historical pieces, MOBA seeks to inspire current students and future generations to uphold the values of excellence and service that the school represents.

Skills for Progress Africa Fellows tour Tema Oil Refinery
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Skills for Progress Africa Fellows tour Tema Oil Refinery

The Skills for Progress Africa (SfPA) program recently organized an industrial tour for its Cohort 1 Fellows at the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), providing ten young Ghanaians with a firsthand look at complex industrial operations. Accompanied by representatives from their founding partner, ELAF Industrial Automation Limited, the fellows participated in the excursion as part of a broader commitment to bridging the gap between academic theory and practical industry experience. The visit focused on exposing the next generation of technical talent to the realities of refinery management and engineering. During the visit, the fellows engaged directly with the leadership of TOR, including the Managing Director, Edmond Kombat Esq. In his address to the group, Kombat emphasized the critical importance of leadership and proactive problem-solving within the energy sector. He challenged the fellows to move beyond a reliance on academic certifications, urging them instead to focus on building tangible technical competencies and professional skills that meet the evolving demands of the global industrial landscape. Kwame Nyatuame, the Executive Director of Skills for Progress Africa, expressed his appreciation for the refinery management's openness to the initiative. He noted that such practical exposure is essential for nurturing Ghanaian talent and ensuring they are prepared for high-level technical roles. The tour also served as a networking platform, with discussions held regarding potential future internship opportunities at the refinery for the fellows, further solidifying the link between the mentorship program and industry recruitment pipelines. This industrial visit marks a significant milestone for the SfPA mentorship program, which aims to equip youth with both leadership and technical expertise. By facilitating direct interactions between aspiring professionals and established industry leaders at the Tema Oil Refinery, the initiative continues to support the development of a skilled workforce capable of driving innovation in Ghana’s industrial and energy sectors.

GES directs applicants to check 2026 promotion status on October 15
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GES directs applicants to check 2026 promotion status on October 15

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially instructed all eligible applicants for the 2026 promotion exercise to verify their application status starting Thursday, October 15, 2026. This directive follows the conclusion of the preliminary application phase and represents a critical milestone for thousands of educators across the country seeking career progression within the national education framework. The status check is a mandatory step for those who submitted applications to move to higher ranks within the service. In a formal communication dated October 14, 2026, the GES management directed all Regional Directors of Education to ensure the timely dissemination of this information to candidates in their respective jurisdictions. The service has designated a specific promotion portal for this exercise, providing a dedicated link for applicants to access their records. Regional Directors have been tasked with utilizing all available administrative channels to ensure that no eligible teacher or staff member is left uninformed about the verification window. This verification process is intended to ensure that all submitted data is accurate and that applicants meet the necessary criteria for the upcoming promotion assessments. By opening the portal on October 15, the GES aims to provide a transparent platform for candidates to confirm their eligibility and address any potential discrepancies early in the process. The service's leadership emphasized the importance of this step in maintaining the integrity of the promotion exercise and expressed appreciation for the cooperation of regional heads in coordinating these administrative tasks. As the 2026 promotion cycle moves forward, educators are encouraged to monitor the official portal closely for further updates regarding examination dates and interview schedules. This exercise remains a key component of the government's commitment to improving professional standards and teacher welfare within the Ghana Education Service. Successful applicants who eventually pass the promotion hurdles will see adjustments in their professional standing and responsibilities across the country's pre-tertiary education system.