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.

WAEC Crackdown: Invigilators Arrested as Council Uncovers Sophisticated Malpractice Network in Bono Regions
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WAEC Crackdown: Invigilators Arrested as Council Uncovers Sophisticated Malpractice Network in Bono Regions

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has intensified its enforcement measures to safeguard the integrity of the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) across the Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo regions. Following the discovery of a coordinated and sophisticated examination malpractice network, the Council has taken decisive action to curb irregularities among the 67,739 candidates participating in the exams within these territories. Regional Controller Daniel Nii Dodoo confirmed that while the challenges are significant, WAEC remains in firm control of the examination process and is actively dismantling syndicates attempting to undermine educational standards. To combat these threats, WAEC has implemented a comprehensive inspection strategy alongside an aggressive sensitization campaign. These efforts have already yielded significant results, leading to the arrest, fine, and prosecution of several invigilators found complicit in examination offenses. Mr. Dodoo noted that while the council has ensured the secure and timely delivery of question papers—maintaining that no leaks occurred prior to the examinations—new technical challenges have emerged. Specifically, syndicates have been caught photographing question papers immediately after distribution to share them with external parties who then provide solutions. Additionally, there has been a notable rise in students attempting to smuggle unauthorized materials into examination halls. The Council is now calling for a unified front to protect the credibility of Ghana’s educational qualifications and restore absolute trust in the national examination process. WAEC emphasizes that while they have deployed dedicated inspectors to monitor centers, the fight against organized exam fraud requires the active involvement of all stakeholders, including school authorities, parents, and security agencies. By strengthening these partnerships and maintaining a zero-tolerance policy toward misconduct, the Council aims to ensure that the hard work of honest students is not devalued by the actions of malpractice networks.

Ghana Institution of Engineering Urges National Structural Assessment to Supplement Government’s Permit Audit
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Ghana Institution of Engineering Urges National Structural Assessment to Supplement Government’s Permit Audit

Ing. Prince Kas-Avortri, the Executive Secretary of the Structural Sub-Division of the Ghana Institution of Engineering, has welcomed the government’s decision to audit building permits issued by Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs). While describing the move as a step in the right direction, Ing. Kas-Avortri cautioned that focusing solely on permit documentation is insufficient to tackle the systemic challenges of unsafe construction practices and weak regulatory oversight currently plaguing the country’s built environment. He stressed that without a holistic approach to enforcement and coordination among regulatory bodies, the underlying risks to public safety will persist despite administrative reviews. The engineering expert highlighted a concerning reality in Ghana’s construction sector, noting that a significant number of existing buildings lack both valid permits and professional structural designs. According to Kas-Avortri, nearly 50 percent of structures nationwide could potentially pose safety risks due to substandard materials or inadequate engineering supervision. He argued that the current regulatory framework is often poorly enforced, allowing developers to bypass critical safety checks. This lack of oversight has resulted in a landscape where many structures are built without the necessary structural integrity to withstand environmental pressures or long-term usage, creating a ticking time bomb for potential collapses. To address these vulnerabilities, the Ghana Institution of Engineering is advocating for a more aggressive national intervention that goes beyond administrative audits. Kas-Avortri proposed a comprehensive structural assessment of all existing buildings to identify those that are fundamentally unsound. He suggested that buildings deemed unfit for habitation and beyond repair should be demolished to prevent future disasters and ensure public safety. By prioritizing a nationwide structural audit and strengthening the enforcement powers of regulatory bodies, the government can move closer to ensuring that Ghana’s urban development is both sustainable and safe for all citizens.

Tepa Nursing and Midwifery Training College Appeals for Urgent Infrastructure Support Amidst Growing Enrollment
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Tepa Nursing and Midwifery Training College Appeals for Urgent Infrastructure Support Amidst Growing Enrollment

The Tepa Nursing and Midwifery Training College in the Ashanti Region has made a passionate appeal to the government for immediate intervention to address a mounting infrastructure deficit. Speaking during a matriculation ceremony for over 2,000 new students, Board Chairman Addai Amankwa highlighted several critical challenges that are currently undermining the college's operations and the welfare of its growing student body. The institution, located in the Ahafo Ano North District, is grappling with a combination of inadequate security, an unstable power supply, and severe housing shortages that threaten its educational mandate. According to the Board Chairman, the lack of a reliable power source remains a significant hurdle, especially during frequent grid outages. Mr. Amankwa called for the provision of a dedicated power plant to ensure that teaching and learning are not disrupted. Furthermore, the college is facing a water crisis due to insufficient storage and distribution systems. Security also remains a top priority, as the current facilities do not provide adequate protection for students and staff, leaving the community vulnerable to external risks. The board has requested immediate security enhancements to safeguard the campus environment. The accommodation crisis has reached a tipping point, with the college unable to house its expanding population on-site. This shortage has forced many students to seek private accommodation off-campus, where they often face heightened safety concerns and additional financial burdens. Principal Dr. Albert Opoku, addressing the freshers, acknowledged these difficulties but urged them to remain disciplined and committed to their academic pursuits. He emphasized that despite the logistical hurdles, the college remains dedicated to producing high-quality healthcare professionals, while also recognizing the foundational work of his predecessors in establishing the school. As the college looks toward future growth, the leadership has emphasized that current resources are stretched to their limits. Without swift support from the government and relevant stakeholders, the institution warns that the quality of nursing and midwifery training could be affected by these environmental constraints. The appeal serves as a critical call to action to ensure that the next generation of Ghanaian health workers is trained in a safe, modern, and conducive environment.

TEIN-KsTU Highlights NDC's 'No-Academic-Fee' Policy and Tertiary Support Initiatives for Students
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TEIN-KsTU Highlights NDC's 'No-Academic-Fee' Policy and Tertiary Support Initiatives for Students

The Tertiary Education Institutions Network (TEIN) of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) at Kumasi Technical University (KsTU) has highlighted a suite of educational interventions proposed by former President John Dramani Mahama aimed at alleviating the financial burden on tertiary students. During a welcoming ceremony for fresh students at the university, TEIN-KsTU leadership emphasized that these policies are designed to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder the academic aspirations of Ghanaian youth. The group underscored that the high cost of education often leads to academic disruptions, which these proposed reforms seek to eliminate. Central to the discussions was the 'No-Academic-Fee' policy, which Abigail Amenyah, the TEIN-KsTU President, identified as a critical intervention for first-year students. According to Amenyah, this policy is specifically targeted at reducing the immediate financial pressure on families during the admission cycle, thereby preventing students from deferring their studies or withdrawing entirely due to lack of funds. This initiative is positioned as a direct response to the rising costs of higher education in Ghana and aims to increase the transition rate from secondary to tertiary institutions. In addition to fee waivers, the network praised reforms regarding the Student Loan Trust Fund (SLTF) and the introduction of the Free Tertiary Education for Persons with Disabilities initiative. Amenyah noted that these changes represent a significant shift toward inclusivity, ensuring that students with disabilities receive the necessary financial support to complete their education without hardship. By restructuring the student loan system, the NDC intends to make capital more accessible to students during their course of study, rather than it being a source of post-graduation stress. Supporting these assertions, Emmanuel Reagan Fynn, the Ashanti Regional Organiser of the NDC, encouraged the students to be active ambassadors of these policies while maintaining a strong focus on their academic responsibilities. He urged TEIN members to effectively communicate the benefits of the party's educational agenda to their peers. As the national dialogue on education continues to evolve, these highlighted policies form a core part of the NDC's strategy to address accessibility and affordability in Ghana's higher education sector.

Ghanaian PhD Scholars in the UK Demand Urgent Action Over Persistent Scholarship Payment Delays
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Ghanaian PhD Scholars in the UK Demand Urgent Action Over Persistent Scholarship Payment Delays

Ghanaian PhD students currently studying in the United Kingdom under the Ghana Scholarship Authority (GSA) have expressed deep frustration over prolonged delays in the disbursement of their scholarship funds. As of June 8, 2023, the scholars reported that despite official claims regarding the release of funds, they have yet to receive payments for tuition fees and living stipends. This financial impasse has placed the researchers in a precarious position, with many facing severe academic and personal hardships, including the threat of being withdrawn from their programs due to unpaid arrears. The students had initially planned to stage protests to draw attention to their plight but temporarily suspended them after receiving news that funds were supposedly being released. However, when the promised payments failed to materialize, the cohort felt compelled to voice their grievances publicly, highlighting a significant disconnect between government statements and the reality of their financial situation. Previous engagements with the Ghana High Commissioner in the UK have not resulted in a tangible resolution, leaving the students increasingly desperate as they navigate life in a foreign country without their expected support. In their statement, the scholars urged the Presidency and the Finance Minister to intervene urgently to rectify the situation. They emphasized that the lack of funding is not only a personal crisis for those stranded abroad but also a threat to the reputation of Ghana's international educational commitments and the academic success of its scholars. The cohort is calling for immediate transparency and the actual release of funds to prevent further escalations, including the resumption of protests. They stressed that the government must act swiftly to support its citizens and uphold the commitments made under the national scholarship scheme to ensure their academic completion and general well-being.

UDS Innovator Christiana Assah to Represent Ghana in Berlin as UniMAC Disburses Student Support Fund
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UDS Innovator Christiana Assah to Represent Ghana in Berlin as UniMAC Disburses Student Support Fund

Ghanaian higher education institutions are celebrating a dual milestone of academic innovation and financial inclusivity. Christiana Assah, a student from the University for Development Studies (UDS), has emerged as the winner of the DAAD Falling Walls Lab competition, securing a spot to represent the nation at the global finale in Berlin. Simultaneously, the University of Media Arts and Communication (UniMAC) has reinforced its commitment to student welfare by disbursing GH""30,331 through its Agyenkwa Endowment Fund to support 25 students facing financial hardships. Ms. Assah’s victory stems from her groundbreaking research into malaria diagnosis, where she developed formulations using natural plant-based dyes derived from hibiscus, sorghum, and dandelion. This innovation offers a more affordable and environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional diagnostic methods. Competing against 21 other talented contestants, her pitch stood out for its potential to address a significant public health challenge in Ghana and beyond. Other notable participants included Bridget Boamah Appiah and Joel Senyo Ahadzi, who secured second and third places, respectively, highlighting a robust culture of scientific collaboration and local problem-solving. On the financial front, the UniMAC Students' Representative Council (SRC) held a ceremony at the South Legon Campus to distribute aid from the Agyenkwa Endowment Fund. Led by SRC President Moses Desire Kouyo, the initiative aims to ensure that financial barriers do not impede the academic progress of promising communication students. The fund’s committee, chaired by Pamela Selasi Fiador, oversaw a transparent selection process that narrowed down 66 applications to 25 final beneficiaries. During the event, leadership emphasized that supporting these students is an investment in the nation’s future media and communication landscape. These developments reflect a broader trend in the Ghanaian educational sector, where institutions are increasingly focusing on both high-level research and grassroots support. While Ms. Assah prepares for her international debut in Berlin, the UniMAC initiative serves as a reminder of the internal systems required to sustain academic talent. Together, these stories underscore the critical role of innovation and institutional support in driving national development and ensuring that the next generation of Ghanaian professionals can reach their full potential despite economic challenges.

Dr. Clement Apaak and National Stakeholders Call for Robust Digital Infrastructure and Data Literacy to Drive Africa’s Transformation
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Dr. Clement Apaak and National Stakeholders Call for Robust Digital Infrastructure and Data Literacy to Drive Africa’s Transformation

Ghana and the wider African continent are at a critical juncture in their digital evolution, with high-level calls for increased investment in technological infrastructure and the adoption of data-driven decision-making. Speaking at the eLearning Africa conference in Accra, the Deputy Minister of Education, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, advocated for a continental shift toward technological independence. Simultaneously, during Data Literacy Week at the University of Cape Coast, key national institutions—including the Bank of Ghana (BoG) and the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC)—emphasized that reliable data and literacy are the foundations of modern governance and economic progress. Dr. Apaak highlighted that Africa's heavy reliance on foreign technology serves as a significant barrier to local progress and self-reliance. To counteract this, he urged African governments to mobilize domestic resources and establish a continental funding mechanism specifically for technology. A central pillar of his proposal is the recommendation that nations allocate between 1% and 2% of their annual GDP toward developing regional digital infrastructure. According to the Deputy Minister, such a commitment is essential to fostering a landscape where technological innovation can thrive without external dependencies. Complementing this vision for physical infrastructure is the urgent need for a data-literate citizenry and leadership. During the UCC event, Dr. Philip Abradu-Otoo of the Bank of Ghana described data as the "new gold," noting its fundamental role in shaping monetary policy and economic stability. However, the push for data utilization is paired with a call for ethical responsibility. Dr. Audrey Smock Amoah from the NDPC cautioned that data must be handled with integrity to prevent the exacerbation of existing social inequalities. This focus ensures that as the nation becomes more data-centric, it remains inclusive and equitable. The synergy between building robust digital networks and fostering data literacy represents a holistic approach to national development. By combining the physical hardware of digital infrastructure with the analytical skills of a data-literate population, Ghana aims to create a sustainable ecosystem for evidence-based policy-making. Educators and policy-makers agree that these initiatives are vital components of a strategy to secure Africa’s position in the global digital economy and ensure long-term socio-economic independence.

KNUST Forges Inclusive Education Alliance as Academic City’s Dr. Lucy Agyepong Earns National Recognition
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KNUST Forges Inclusive Education Alliance as Academic City’s Dr. Lucy Agyepong Earns National Recognition

Ghana’s higher education sector is witnessing a significant transformation through strategic international partnerships and the recognition of visionary leadership. Recently, the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) launched a landmark collaboration with Gallaudet University and the Responsible AI Lab (RAIL) to champion inclusive education for students with disabilities. This initiative underscores a growing national commitment to ensuring that tertiary education is accessible to all, regardless of physical or sensory challenges. Simultaneously, the sector's human capital was celebrated as Dr. Lucy Agyepong of Academic City University College was honored for her contributions to institutional development and youth empowerment at the prestigious 2026 Ghana Women of the Year Honours. The partnership between KNUST and Gallaudet University, announced during a seminar in Kumasi, focuses on integrating advanced assistive technologies and inclusive practices into the university’s daily operations. Vice-Chancellor Professor Rita Akosua Dickson highlighted that inclusivity is a core institutional value, noting that more than 200 students with disabilities currently receive specialized support, including accessible accommodation and dedicated transport services. Professor Jerry John Kponyo of RAIL emphasized that the collaboration will leverage artificial intelligence to develop tools that specifically improve learning outcomes, ensuring that inclusivity is ingrained in both research and daily academic life. Complementing these institutional advancements, the 2026 Ghana Women of the Year Honours spotlighted the individual excellence driving educational progress. Dr. Lucy Agyepong, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Academic City University, received the Excellence in Education Award for her impactful work in higher education and her dedication to youth empowerment. The ceremony, which also honored luminaries such as Rev. Dr. Joyce Aryee and former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, provided a platform for Dr. Agyepong to reiterate the transformative power of education and her ongoing commitment to enhancing quality access for students across the country. These developments underscore a dual momentum in Ghana's academic landscape: the institutionalization of equity through technology-driven partnerships and the celebration of leadership that prioritizes quality and access. As KNUST moves forward with its inclusive agenda and leaders like Dr. Agyepong continue to push the boundaries of institutional advancement, the future of Ghanaian education appears increasingly oriented toward global standards of excellence and social responsibility. These efforts collectively signal a robust effort to modernize the educational experience while fostering an environment where every student can thrive.

University of Ghana Partners with Nyansapo Concepts to Train Healthcare Students in Soft Skills and Emotional Intelligence
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University of Ghana Partners with Nyansapo Concepts to Train Healthcare Students in Soft Skills and Emotional Intelligence

On June 2, 2026, the College of Health Sciences at the University of Ghana (UG), in collaboration with Nyansapo Concepts, launched a comprehensive Soft Skills and Mindset Training Programme. This initiative, hosted at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, aims to revolutionize healthcare education by integrating technical expertise with essential interpersonal capabilities. Over 200 students from six different schools—including medicine, pharmacy, and nursing—participated in the inaugural event, which focused on fostering empathy and professionalism within the future healthcare workforce. The training program addresses a critical gap in traditional medical education by prioritizing emotional intelligence and effective communication. Facilitators from Nyansapo Concepts led interactive sessions designed to help students navigate the complexities of patient care. According to the organizers, these skills are vital for reducing patient anxiety and improving overall healthcare outcomes. By blending rigorous academic training with mindset development, the initiative seeks to produce professionals who are not only technically proficient but also compassionate and resilient in high-pressure medical environments. Key speakers at the event, including Mrs. Lisa Poku Boateng and Professor Alfred Edwin Yawson, emphasized that the modern healthcare industry demands more than just clinical knowledge. They highlighted the importance of leadership, adaptability, and personal growth as pillars for professional success. The partnership underscores Nyansapo Concepts’ mission to bridge the divide between classroom learning and real-world competencies, ensuring that Ghana's next generation of doctors, nurses, and pharmacists are equipped to meet the evolving needs of the global health sector. This inaugural session marks a significant step toward embedding soft skills training into the core curriculum of healthcare education in Ghana. As the program continues, it is expected to serve as a model for other academic institutions seeking to enhance the holistic development of their students. By empowering future practitioners with the tools to connect with patients on a human level, the University of Ghana and Nyansapo Concepts are setting a new standard for excellence in healthcare delivery and professional service.

Rev. Father Isaac Kofi Quayson Urges Catholics to Prioritize Spiritual Transformation Through the Holy Eucharist
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Rev. Father Isaac Kofi Quayson Urges Catholics to Prioritize Spiritual Transformation Through the Holy Eucharist

Reverend Father Isaac Kofi Quayson has called on the Catholic faithful to ensure that the reception of the Holy Eucharist translates into a tangible and positive impact on their spiritual lives. Delivering a sermon in Accra to mark the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, also known as Corpus Christi, the clergyman emphasized that the Eucharist is not merely a ritual but a source of spiritual nourishment that should fundamentally change a believer’s conduct and relationship with God. He stressed that the sacrament is central to the faith and requires a heart prepared for divine encounter. Drawing a parallel between physical and spiritual needs, Father Quayson likened the desire for Holy Communion to the natural thirst for water that stimulates a healthy appetite. He encouraged congregants to cultivate a deep-seated longing for the Eucharist by regularly reflecting on God’s numerous blessings in their lives. By nurturing this sense of gratitude, the priest noted that believers can approach the altar with a renewed spirit, viewing the sacrament as an essential "meal" for their souls rather than a routine practice or a casual social tradition. The priest further emphasized the necessity of rigorous spiritual preparation before participating in the Mass. He highlighted the importance of frequent confession and the deliberate avoidance of sins—both major and minor—that distance the individual from Christ. Father Quayson expressed concern over what he described as casual and inattentive behaviors during worship services, urging the faithful to maintain a reverent atmosphere. He warned that trivializing sin or approaching the Mass without the proper mindset prevents believers from fully receiving the divine blessings intended for them through the sacrament. In his concluding remarks, Father Quayson urged the community to embrace Eucharistic adoration as a means of fostering a more intimate bond with the Divine. He called for a shift in focus toward spiritual mindfulness, reminding the congregation that the strength of their faith is often reflected in how they honor the presence of Christ in the sacrament. By prioritizing holiness and attentive worship, he suggested, the Catholic community can better demonstrate the transformative power of the Eucharist in their daily lives and broader social interactions.

Ace Anan Ankomah Advocates for Ethical Leadership and Moral Integrity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
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Ace Anan Ankomah Advocates for Ethical Leadership and Moral Integrity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

Renowned Ghanaian lawyer Ace Anan Ankomah has called on Africa’s next generation of leaders to prioritize ethical leadership and service to humanity over mere technical expertise. Speaking at the graduation ceremony for the Class of 2026 at SOS-Hermann Gmeiner International College (SOS-HGIC) in Tema, Mr. Ankomah argued that while the world possesses an abundance of strong nations, it is severely lacking in ethical ones. He emphasized that the future of the continent and the global community depends heavily on the character of those navigating the complexities of the modern era, particularly in the face of rapid technological advancements. A significant portion of Mr. Ankomah’s address focused on the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the moral challenges it presents. He warned that technology without a moral compass is inherently dangerous, citing risks such as misinformation and social harm that could undermine societal stability. He asserted that technological progress should serve as a tool for human welfare rather than a means of self-glorification or unprincipled power. For the graduates entering an increasingly digital workforce, he stressed that the integrity of the leader behind the machine is more critical than the capabilities of the machine itself. To guide the graduates in their future endeavors, the legal luminary outlined five essential principles of leadership: intellectual excellence, moral courage, humility, empathy, and service. These pillars, he argued, are necessary for anyone seeking to transform society. He shared insights from his own career, illustrating that true success is built on the courage to do what is right even when it is difficult and the humility to see leadership as a form of stewardship. By grounding innovation in conscience, he suggested that the youth can ensure that progress does not come at the expense of human dignity. In his closing remarks, Mr. Ankomah urged the Class of 2026 to view their education as a platform for societal transformation. He challenged them to use their knowledge and skills to uplift others, portraying leadership not as a destination of status but as a continuous commitment to the common good. As Africa seeks to establish its place in the global technological landscape, Ankomah’s message serves as a timely reminder that the most valuable asset any leader can possess is a steadfast commitment to ethics and integrity.

Speaker Alban Bagbin Bolsters Education in Nadowli-Kaleo with 16,584 Uniforms and New Classroom Blocks
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Speaker Alban Bagbin Bolsters Education in Nadowli-Kaleo with 16,584 Uniforms and New Classroom Blocks

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has returned to his home constituency of Nadowli-Kaleo to lead a significant educational intervention, donating 16,584 school uniforms and commissioning two new six-unit classroom blocks. This initiative, described as a purposeful homecoming, is designed to address the pressing infrastructure needs and the financial challenges faced by parents in the district. By providing both the physical space for learning and the necessary attire for students, the Speaker aims to revitalize the local educational landscape and restore a sense of pride among the youth. During the commissioning ceremony, Speaker Bagbin emphasized the psychological and behavioral impact of a student's appearance on their academic journey. He argued that proper school uniforms are essential for maintaining student dignity and decorum, noting that torn or dilapidated clothing often reflects a failure in societal leadership. The Speaker also took the opportunity to advocate for high standards of discipline within the educational system, expressing concern over previous decisions such as the removal of teacher uniforms, which he suggested could undermine professional authority and student respect. Local leaders and education officials have lauded the intervention as a timely relief for the community. The Member of Parliament for Nadowli-Kaleo, Anthony Mwinkaara, noted that the donation would alleviate the financial burden on parents and is expected to drive a notable increase in school attendance. However, District Chief Executive (DCE) Mary Haruna provided a sobering context to the festivities, pointing out that the district continues to struggle with poor Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) results. She emphasized that while the Speaker's contributions are monumental, improving educational standards will require a sustained, collective effort from all stakeholders. While the donation of over 16,000 uniforms may not meet the needs of every single student in the district, the initiative marks a significant step toward reducing overcrowding and improving the learning environment. By focusing on the intersection of infrastructure and student welfare, Bagbin’s efforts aim to create a more conducive atmosphere for both teachers and pupils. The move highlights the critical role of national figures in grassroots development, providing a foundation upon which local authorities can build to improve long-term educational outcomes in the region.