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.

Okyeame Kwame proposes free university for farmers' children
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Okyeame Kwame proposes free university for farmers' children

Ghanaian musician Okyeame Kwame has called on the government to implement a policy providing free university education specifically for the children of farmers. The veteran artiste and advocate suggested that such a move would serve as a powerful incentive to encourage younger generations to take up farming and treat the agricultural sector as a professional career path rather than a survival-driven last resort. Speaking in an interview with Hitz FM, Okyeame Kwame explained that while the current educational framework supports students through basic and senior high school, the cost of tertiary education remains a significant barrier for many farming households. He argued that granting scholarships or full tuition waivers to the offspring of those who feed the nation would not only alleviate financial poverty but also ensure that the future of Ghana's agriculture is led by educated and technically skilled individuals. This targeted support, he noted, would serve as a reward for the hard work of rural producers. The proposal comes as stakeholders continue to evaluate the long-term impacts of educational initiatives such as the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) program. By extending support to the university level for agricultural families, Okyeame Kwame believes the government can demonstrate a deeper commitment to the sector that remains the backbone of the Ghanaian economy. He emphasized that this intervention could help curb rural-urban migration by making farming communities more attractive to educated youth who currently seek white-collar jobs in urban centers.

Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare donates desks to 20 Techiman North schools
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Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare donates desks to 20 Techiman North schools

Member of Parliament for Techiman North, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has presented a significant consignment of furniture to 20 schools within her constituency to improve the quality of education. The donation targets educational institutions ranging from Kindergarten to Senior High School levels and is specifically designed to address the acute shortage of seating that has long plagued the district. By providing these essential resources, the MP aims to create a more conducive and comfortable learning environment for thousands of students. The distribution includes a diverse range of furniture suited for different age groups, comprising 300 mono desks, 150 dual desks, and 50 Kindergarten (KG) sets. Additionally, the MP provided sets of dining furniture to improve the facilities available to students during meal times. According to Ofosu-Adjare, the initiative was prompted by findings from her recent working visits to various schools, where she observed firsthand the difficult conditions under which students were being taught due to the lack of proper desks and chairs. Receiving the items on behalf of the schools, the Techiman North District Director of Education praised the Member of Parliament for her timely intervention. The Director noted that furniture deficits have remained a persistent challenge for the local education directorate, particularly for the youngest learners in early childhood development centers. This gesture is expected to alleviate some of the pressure on school management and enhance student focus. The MP has further committed to continuing this support, announcing plans to return to the district next month with additional furniture to reach more schools in need.

University of Ghana unions oppose plans to privatise campus security
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University of Ghana unions oppose plans to privatise campus security

The Coalition of Joint Unions at the University of Ghana has formally registered its strong opposition to a proposal by the university's management to privatise security services across its campuses. The coalition, which represents a diverse group of staff unions, argues that outsourcing security to private firms would fundamentally compromise the safety and well-being of students, staff, and the wider university community. The unions maintain that internal security personnel possess a unique understanding of the campus environment that external contractors may not be able to replicate. Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Benjamin Nkumsah, the chairman of the University of Ghana chapter of the Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU), highlighted that campus security is a sensitive and specialised function that should remain under direct university control. He emphasised that the unions are prepared to resist any attempts to outsource these services, viewing the move as a potential threat to the stability and established safety protocols of the institution. The coalition has vowed to use all legitimate means to ensure the privatisation plan does not proceed. Beyond the privatisation dispute, the coalition is also raising urgent concerns regarding the non-payment of union dues. The leadership claims that the university management has failed to remit outstanding dues for nearly five months, a situation they say is severely hampering their ability to function and support their members. This financial bottleneck has added a layer of friction to the relationship between the staff and the administration, with the unions calling for the immediate settlement of these arrears to ensure labour peace. The standoff reflects broader tensions within the University of Ghana regarding administrative reforms and financial management. As the unions continue their resistance, the university management faces mounting pressure to address both the security strategy and the backlog of statutory payments. The resolution of these issues will be critical for maintaining institutional harmony and ensuring that the campus remains a secure and functional environment for academic activities.

DigiMarkt Project calls for AI to be a mandatory subject in schools
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DigiMarkt Project calls for AI to be a mandatory subject in schools

Management of the DigiMarkt Project is advocating for the mandatory integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into Ghana’s mainstream education system to better prepare students for the digital economy. Speaking at a recent conference, project leaders emphasized that making AI a required subject in both secondary schools and universities is essential for the nation's youth to remain competitive. The initiative seeks to ensure that the next generation of Ghanaian professionals possesses the technical literacy required to navigate a global job market increasingly dominated by automated technologies. Prof. Yarhands Dissou Arthur, representing the project board, highlighted that AI is poised to transform various industrial sectors, making it a prerequisite for future employment. He stressed that the curriculum must go beyond technical skills to include the responsible and ethical use of AI, which would help prevent public panic and ensure the technology is applied for the benefit of society. This educational shift is particularly vital for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) graduates, who need digital competencies to enhance their employability in modern trades. Project Coordinator Dr. Jonathan Barth noted that Ghana should develop an AI strategy tailored to Africa’s unique socio-economic challenges rather than simply mimicking European models. To support this, the DigiMarkt Project is collaborating with European partners to establish remote work opportunities for local talent. By connecting Ghanaian youth to international markets while they remain in the country, the project aims to address the persistent issue of youth unemployment and reduce the impact of the "brain drain" on the national economy. The push for AI integration aligns with broader national efforts to modernize the education sector to meet the demands of the 21st century. By embedding these digital skills into the academic fabric of the country, the DigiMarkt Project believes Ghana can create a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals. These reforms are seen as a necessary step in ensuring that Ghanaian graduates are equipped to lead innovation and contribute effectively to the evolving global technological landscape.

Dr Lucy Agyepong (left) receiving her award
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Dr. Lucy Agyepong wins Education Excellence award at GAAS Women’s Awards

Dr. Lucy Agyepong, Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Academic City University, has been honored with the Education Excellence award at the inaugural Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences (GAAS) Women’s Awards. Held in Accra, the ceremony celebrated prominent women making significant contributions to national development through their professional expertise. Dr. Agyepong was specifically recognized for her transformative leadership in engineering education and her dedication to fostering growth within the academic sector. The awards ceremony, themed "Breaking barriers and building nations," sought to highlight the achievements of women who have excelled in traditionally male-dominated fields. Dr. Agyepong was among 33 distinguished women recognized during the event, which spanned various categories including governance, peacebuilding, and health innovation. The GAAS initiative aims to create a platform for celebrating female excellence while inspiring the next generation of leaders in Ghana to pursue diverse career paths. Beyond her administrative role at Academic City University, Dr. Agyepong has been a vocal advocate for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. Upon receiving the award, she emphasized the critical importance of mentorship in bridging the gender gap in technical fields. She called on academic and corporate institutions to implement structured support systems that encourage young women to pursue and persist in STEM careers, noting that such efforts are essential for the country's technological advancement. The recognition of Dr. Agyepong underscores the growing emphasis on engineering and technical education within Ghana’s higher education landscape. As Academic City University continues to position itself as a hub for innovation, her award highlights the role of institutional leadership in driving educational standards. The GAAS Women’s Awards set a new precedent for acknowledging female professionals whose work contributes directly to the socio-economic and intellectual fabric of the nation.

Ben Q. Honyenuga — Vice Chancellor, HTU
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Ho Technical University to launch circular economy certificate courses

Ho Technical University (HTU) has announced plans to introduce a series of short certificate and professional development courses specifically focused on the circular economy. Vice Chancellor Professor Ben Q. Honyenuga revealed the initiative during the two-day Ghana Circular Economy Conference held in Ho. The move is designed to equip students and professionals with the necessary skills to drive sustainable innovation and support Ghana’s industrial growth through resource efficiency. The introduction of these academic programmes aligns with HTU’s strategic vision to support the national transition toward a circular economy. According to Professor Honyenuga, the university aims to foster a workforce capable of implementing regenerative practices that reduce waste and maximise the value of resources. This educational shift is expected to play a critical role in achieving Ghana’s broader sustainability and economic development objectives by bridging the gap between theoretical environmental concepts and practical industrial application. The conference served as a platform for stakeholders to discuss various aspects of the circular model, including job creation, financing, and technological innovation. HTU intends to leverage partnerships with industry players and international organisations to ensure the curriculum remains relevant to current market needs. By emphasizing capacity building and collaborative research, the university hopes to create a hub for sustainable development that benefits both the local community and the wider Ghanaian economy. The rollout of these courses marks a significant step for technical education in Ghana, positioning HTU as a leader in environmental stewardship and industrial modernization. As the global economy increasingly shifts toward sustainable practices, the university’s commitment to providing specialized training will likely enhance the employability of its graduates while promoting a more resilient and environmentally conscious industrial sector.

Fairuza Abdul-Rashid Safian (middle), Executive Director, CAMFED Ghana; Habiba Kotonah (left), GES Director, La Dadekotopon; Emelia Ayipio Asamoah (2nd from left), Head, Work Force Development, MasterCard Foundation, and some guests and students of the Labone SHS. Picture: BENEDICT OBUOBI
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Ghana Education Service declares zero tolerance for child marriage

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has reaffirmed its commitment to ending child marriage and ensuring that girls remain in school to complete their education. Speaking at a forum organized to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child at Burma Camp, the La Dadekotopon Municipal Director of Education, Habiba Kotonah, announced a zero-tolerance stance against the practice. She emphasized that child marriage significantly hinders the future prospects of young girls and called for a unified approach to protect their fundamental rights. Madam Kotonah urged parents, educators, and community leaders to collaborate in creating a protective environment for the girl child. She specifically highlighted the importance of mentorship, encouraging female teachers to serve as role models for their students. According to the Director, providing girls with the necessary guidance and support is essential for overcoming obstacles such as harassment and discrimination, which often lead to school dropouts and the premature termination of their academic journeys. The event was supported by CAMFED Ghana, whose Executive Director, Fairuza Abdul-Rashid Safian, underscored the moral and social imperatives of the initiative. She argued that investing in the rights of girls should not be viewed as an act of charity but as a necessary commitment to equality and justice. By ensuring safe learning environments and fostering collective community effort, the GES and its partners aim to empower girls to achieve their professional and personal dreams without the threat of early forced unions.

Dr Martin Luther Obeng (right), President of Radford University College, signing the agreement with Prof. Dr Dragan Djuri, President of Singidunum University in Belgrade
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Radford University signs agreements with two Serbian universities

Radford University College (RUC) has established strategic academic partnerships with Singidunum University and the University of Novi Sad in Serbia to enhance international educational opportunities for Ghanaian students. The agreements were formalised in Serbia, with Ambassador Kwesi Ahwoi and the President of Radford University College, Dr. Martin Luther Obeng, representing the Ghanaian institution. These collaborations are designed to provide students with a global perspective while maintaining strong ties to their home academic environment. Under the terms of the new agreements, students enrolled in Nursing, Information Technology (IT), and Business Economics programmes will benefit from a unique study-sharing model. This arrangement allows students to begin their academic journey at Radford University College in Ghana before transitioning to Serbia to complete their degrees at either Singidunum or Novi Sad. To facilitate this transition and ease the financial burden on students, the partnership includes significant tuition fee reductions and the introduction of a dedicated scholarship scheme, ensuring that international exposure remains accessible. The initiative is expected to bolster the academic standing of Radford University College by integrating European educational standards into its curriculum and delivery. By providing exposure to different cultural and professional environments in Serbia, the programme aims to produce graduates who are better equipped for the competitive global job market. This move reflects a broader commitment by the institution to seek international synergies that offer students practical benefits, such as credit transfers and cross-continental networking, beyond traditional classroom learning.

An aerial photograph of the University of Ghana, Legon campus, featuring the distinctive white buildings with orange-tiled roofs and the iconic Balme Library clock tower. The sprawling campus is surrounded by lush green trees and landscape, representing one of the major public universities in Ghana.
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GTEC mandates public universities to reopen by October 16

The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has issued a directive for all public universities in Ghana to reopen for the 2026/2027 academic year by October 16, 2026. According to the mandate, lectures must commence no later than October 19, 2026. This intervention is aimed at preventing further disruption to the academic calendar, which has been stalled by ongoing industrial action from staff unions. GTEC instructed university management teams to ensure that all essential services and facilities are operational by October 15 to facilitate the return of students. The directive has met with strong resistance from the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA), which described the commission's tone as "unprofessional." GAUA President Reverend Amoah Karikari argued that the instruction violates the independence of university councils and shows a lack of respect for established university governance. While acknowledging the call for reopening, GAUA maintained that the directive alone would not end their strike. The association insisted that their industrial action remains in force until the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) addresses their specific grievances and demands. GTEC has emphasized that further delays to the academic schedule could have long-term consequences, including the disruption of graduation timelines and the straining of international collaborations. The commission urged striking staff to resume their duties to prevent an unmanageable backlog in the university system. As negotiations between the government and the unions continue, the standoff remains a significant hurdle for thousands of students awaiting the start of their new academic year.

MOBA launches 14-track anthology for Mfantsipim 150th anniversary
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MOBA launches 14-track anthology for Mfantsipim 150th anniversary

The Mfantsipim Old Boys Association (MOBA) has launched a 14-track musical anthology titled the "Mfantsipim Sesquicentennial Anthology" to celebrate the school’s 150th anniversary. Produced by alumnus and lawyer Ace Anan Ankomah, the project seeks to immortalise the school’s rich musical heritage while supporting its ongoing development through the sale of commemorative physical and digital records. The initiative represents a major milestone in the school's sesquicentennial celebrations, documenting a century and a half of institutional history through song. The collection features a diverse mix of hymns, school anthems, and highlife classics that reflect the institution's historical and cultural identity. The project originally evolved from a simple competition to create a "jama" song but grew into a comprehensive archive of the school’s musical memory. Alumni contributed to the effort by recovering and recreating historic compositions, ensuring that both formal religious music and the popular highlife styles that have defined student life for generations are preserved for posterity. To ensure the project serves as both a lasting keepsake and a fundraiser, MOBA has released the anthology in multiple formats, including 1,000 pen drives and limited-edition vinyl records. In addition to the musical tribute, the association has established a partnership with Caveman Watch to produce specialised commemorative timepieces for the anniversary. These efforts are part of a broader, year-long celebration themed "A Legacy of Excellence, Leadership and Service to Inspire the Future." The 150th-anniversary celebrations are scheduled to culminate in November 2026. This musical project is viewed as a vital effort in institutional preservation, using the collective memories of the "Old Boys" to document the school's impact on Ghanaian education and culture. By blending traditional compositions with modern recording techniques, the association aims to inspire current students to uphold the values that the school has championed since its founding in 1876.

Haruna Iddrisu announces October 16 payment for 52,000 promoted teachers
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Haruna Iddrisu announces October 16 payment for 52,000 promoted teachers

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has announced that the government will begin paying the first phase of salary arrears to 52,000 promoted teachers starting October 16, 2026. This initiative is intended to fulfill a longstanding promise to teaching staff who have been awaiting financial adjustments following their professional advancement. The Minister confirmed that the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) is working closely with the Ministry of Finance to ensure the disbursement process is completed efficiently. The payment schedule is designed in phases, with the initial rollout targeting over fifty thousand personnel. According to the Minister, the government is committed to completing the entire payment process for all affected teachers by the end of October 2026. This move is seen as a crucial step in boosting the morale of the teaching workforce and ensuring that their promotions are reflected in their remuneration without further delay. In addition to addressing the arrears for promoted teachers, the Ministry is working to stabilize other labor issues within the education sector to prevent academic disruption. This includes ongoing efforts to resolve disputes with the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA) regarding market premiums and one-time research allowances. Minister Iddrisu expressed optimism that these negotiations will lead to a swift conclusion, allowing academic activities to proceed smoothly across all levels of the educational system. The government’s primary objective remains the maintenance of the academic calendar and the prevention of further industrial action. By prioritizing the payment of arrears for promoted teachers and engaging with university administrators, the Ministry of Education aims to create a stable environment for both students and staff. The Minister emphasized that the government is dedicated to ensuring that educational institutions remain operational and can fulfill their mandates effectively throughout the academic year.

Daniel Boateng Mintah's family demands probe into death at Abomosu STEM SHS
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Daniel Boateng Mintah's family demands probe into death at Abomosu STEM SHS

The family of 14-year-old Daniel Boateng Mintah is calling for a comprehensive police investigation and a post-mortem following his death just 12 days after he enrolled at Abomosu STEM Senior High School. Daniel, who reportedly had no known prior health conditions, passed away on September 30, 2026, under circumstances the family describes as mysterious and poorly explained by school authorities. The family has formally appealed to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and the Minister of Education to intervene and ensure transparency in determining the cause of his death. According to the family, Daniel fell ill with what was initially suspected to be malaria shortly after starting his first year at the school. However, they allege that school officials provided conflicting accounts regarding his condition and the treatment he received. Concerns were further heightened when the family was reportedly not updated on his deteriorating health for several hours, only to be informed later that he had passed away. Upon visiting the mortuary, the family noted discrepancies in the state of the body and the information provided by both the school and the hospital where he was treated. A significant point of contention involves the discovery of psychiatric medication among Daniel's personal belongings—medication the parents insist they did not provide and which was not previously prescribed for him. This discovery has led the family to question the nature of the medical care administered while he was in the school's custody. His parents described Daniel as an ambitious student who was eager to study computer science, while his former teachers characterized him as academically gifted and respectful. Seeking justice and clarity, the family is requesting that the student's body be transferred to the Police Hospital in Accra for an independent forensic examination. They emphasize that a thorough inquiry is necessary not only to provide closure for their loss but also to address potential safety gaps and prevent similar tragedies in the future. As of now, the family is waiting for a formal response from the Ghana Education Service and the police regarding the protocols followed during Daniel's brief illness.