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.

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CAPCOE Rejects Claims of Unfair Marking Against Private School Candidates in 2026 BECE

The Campaign Against Privatisation and Commercialisation of Education (CAPCOE) has strongly dismissed allegations suggesting that candidates from private schools were deliberately marked down or biased against in the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). In a statement released on August 13, 2026, the advocacy group characterized these claims as misleading, noting that such rhetoric risks undermining public confidence in Ghana's national examination framework and the integrity of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC). According to CAPCOE Convener, Mr. Richard Kwashie Kovey, the BECE marking process is designed with multiple layers of quality assurance specifically intended to identify and prevent human error or systemic bias. The organization clarified that all candidates, regardless of whether they attend public or private institutions, are assessed under a uniform national grading system. This standardized approach ensures that every student’s performance is measured against the same criteria, maintaining a level playing field for all basic education graduates across the country. CAPCOE also cautioned parents and school administrators against using internal mock examination results as a definitive benchmark for BECE performance. The group noted that discrepancies between school-based assessments and national exam results do not necessarily indicate foul play, but rather reflect the rigorous standards of the national examination body. To maintain the integrity of the educational sector, CAPCOE urged private school associations and aggrieved stakeholders to eschew public hearsay and instead follow established official channels to address any legitimate concerns regarding examination outcomes. Moving forward, the organization called for more constructive dialogue between educational stakeholders rather than fostering a divisive atmosphere between the public and private sectors. By focusing on evidence-based feedback and utilizing formal grievance procedures, CAPCOE believes the examination system can continue to evolve while preserving its reputation for fairness and academic rigor. The group remains committed to ensuring that the commercialization of education does not compromise the standards of national certification.

Opoku Ware and Konongo Odumase SHS Secure Victories to Advance in Luv FM High School Debate Competition
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Opoku Ware and Konongo Odumase SHS Secure Victories to Advance in Luv FM High School Debate Competition

Opoku Ware School (OWASS) and Konongo Odumase Senior High School (KOSS) have successfully advanced to the next stage of the Luv FM Kel-Charcoal Toothpaste High School Debate following intense victories on Day 4 of the competition. The preliminary round battles resulted in the elimination of Afia Kobi Ampem Girls SHS and Kumasi Academy, as the tournament narrows down its field of contenders. With eight schools now moving forward, the intellectual stakes are rising for the remaining participants in the final preliminary rounds. In the seventh contest of the series, Opoku Ware School faced off against Afia Kobi Ampem Girls SHS in a rigorous intellectual duel focused on the Ghanaian judicial system. The debaters engaged in a spirited argument over the merits of restorative justice versus punitive justice. OWASS ultimately secured a dominant victory with a score of 233 against Afia Kobi Ampem’s 203. This 30-point margin highlighted the sharp analytical skills and persuasive delivery of the Opoku Ware team, who successfully convinced the panel of judges of their stance on the motion. The second matchup of the day featured a closely contested battle between Konongo Odumase SHS and Kumasi Academy. The two institutions debated the motion regarding the "Ghana Beyond Aid" agenda, a critical topic concerning the nation's economic independence and its reliance on foreign assistance. Following a comprehensive exchange of facts and economic perspectives, Konongo Odumase emerged victorious with a score of 231 to 213. The win was secured via a majority decision, reflecting the competitive nature of the discourse and the narrow margins that defined the encounter. As the competition intensifies, the exit of Kumasi Academy and Afia Kobi Ampem Girls SHS signals the end of the road for two strong contenders while setting the stage for the next phase of the tournament. Supported by various corporate sponsors, the Luv FM Kel-Charcoal Toothpaste High School Debate continues to serve as a vital platform for Ghanaian youth to sharpen their public speaking, critical thinking, and civic awareness. The surviving eight schools are now preparing for more challenging motions as they vie for the prestigious regional title and the opportunity to showcase academic excellence.

GAUA Strike Disrupts University Operations and Healthcare as Education Minister Reschedules Crisis Meeting
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GAUA Strike Disrupts University Operations and Healthcare as Education Minister Reschedules Crisis Meeting

The industrial action by the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA) has intensified, leading to significant disruptions across Ghana's public universities and their affiliated services. At the University of Ghana, the University Hospital has been forced to suspend General Outpatient Department (OPD), specialist clinics, and pharmacy counseling services effective August 13, 2026. Simultaneously, the University of Cape Coast (UCC) has announced the indefinite postponement of its matriculation ceremony for 2026 Sandwich students, which was originally slated for August 15. These developments highlight the deepening crisis as administrators demand a resolution to long-standing grievances regarding their conditions of service and allowance disparities between teaching and non-teaching staff. Efforts to resolve the impasse are currently underway, with Vice-Chancellors Ghana (VCG) engaging GAUA leadership in virtual discussions to bridge the gap. Michael Owusu Ansah of GAUA noted that VCG has committed to advocating for the administrators' concerns with the central government. However, a high-level meeting between GAUA and the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has been rescheduled to August 18, 2026. This delay was necessitated by the Minister’s official travel commitments alongside President John Mahama. GAUA remains firm, emphasizing that only concrete government commitments and signed agreements will lead to the suspension of their industrial action, which continues to impact crucial administrative functions. Adding to the labor unrest in the higher education sector, the Kumasi Technical University (KsTU) chapter of the Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG) has issued a separate ultimatum to the government. The association is demanding the immediate validation and payment of salaries for 15 post-retirement contract faculty members who have reportedly gone up to 12 months without pay. Dr. Bismark Quarku Parker, the Chapter Chairman, criticized the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Education for inconsistencies in salary payments across public institutions. He warned that all academic services will be withdrawn by the end of the month if these arrears, some dating back to September 2025, are not cleared. The convergence of these industrial actions poses a serious threat to the stability of the 2026 academic calendar and the delivery of essential services within university communities. While emergency departments at university hospitals remain operational for now, the suspension of administrative and outpatient services signals a worsening situation for both students and the general public. As stakeholders await the critical August 18 meeting with Minister Iddrisu, the government faces increasing pressure to standardize conditions of service across all public and technical universities to prevent a total shutdown of the higher education sector.

President Mahama Unveils GH"3 Billion Plan to Construct 30 New E-Blocks and End Double-Track System by 2027
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President Mahama Unveils GH"3 Billion Plan to Construct 30 New E-Blocks and End Double-Track System by 2027

President John Dramani Mahama has announced a major GH"3 billion initiative to overhaul Ghana's secondary education infrastructure, aiming to eliminate the double-track system by 2027. Speaking during a tour of the Upper East Region on August 13, the President revealed plans to construct 30 new E-block community day schools under the STAR-G project (also referred to as the Star J Project). This infrastructure drive is complemented by a pledge to complete 30 additional abandoned E-block projects nationwide this year, ensuring that taxpayer investments from previous years are not wasted and that educational gaps in underserved areas are bridged. The strategic expansion focuses on high-population-density urban areas to provide community-based access, contrasting with previous rural placements that often required conversion into boarding facilities. President Mahama emphasized that the primary objective of this infrastructure surge is to phase out the double-track system, which he noted has significantly reduced teacher-student contact hours. According to the President, the current system has adversely affected the quality of teaching and learning, particularly hindering students' preparation for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). By restoring longer interaction periods, the government intends to improve overall academic performance and learning conditions. During his engagements in Paga, President Mahama underscored the importance of academic excellence by challenging local students to achieve a 100% WASSCE pass rate. To support the institution, he committed to providing a brand-new 60-seater bus before the completion of planned dormitory facilities, stressing that infrastructure must directly translate into improved outcomes. The urgency of these projects was echoed in the Upper West Region, where residents of Naro and local leaders, including Chief Naa Dapilah Dikumwin Zondie II, have called for the immediate completion of their abandoned 2016 E-block project to prevent school dropouts and reduce the long distances students currently travel to attend school. As the government targets the end of 2027 for the full transition away from the double-track system, the focus remains on the rapid delivery of these 60 facilities. The administration views this expansion as a critical step in providing modern, equitable education across the country. If successful, the initiative will alleviate the current pressure on SHS infrastructure, allowing for a more stable and effective academic calendar that prioritizes student engagement and national educational standards.

National Service Authority Withholds Over 22,000 PIN Codes for 2026/2027 Service Year Over Identity Verification Issues
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National Service Authority Withholds Over 22,000 PIN Codes for 2026/2027 Service Year Over Identity Verification Issues

The National Service Authority (NSA) has announced the withholding of PIN codes for 22,269 prospective personnel for the 2026/2027 National Service Year. This decision comes as part of a rigorous identity verification process aimed at maintaining the integrity of the national service enrolment system. Of the 144,023 submissions received from tertiary institutions across the country, the NSA has so far released unique records and PIN codes for 121,754 individuals, ensuring that only eligible graduates from accredited institutions are mobilized for their mandatory service. The discrepancy in the numbers highlights the NSA's enhanced verification methods, which now include biometric checks and real-time validation against Ghana Card records. According to the Authority, 21,311 submissions have been outright rejected, while 958 remain approved but pending further verification. The NSA emphasized that these measures are essential to prevent fraudulent enrolments and to ensure that only qualified graduates enter the workforce under the national scheme. Institutions facing unresolved accreditation issues have been directed to engage with the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) to rectify their status. Online registration for graduates who have successfully received their PIN codes commenced on August 12 and is scheduled to close on August 26, 2026. While the registration window is clear for the majority of personnel, those whose PIN codes have been withheld remain in a state of uncertainty, as the NSA has not yet provided a specific timeline for the completion of the remaining verification processes. Prospective personnel are encouraged to monitor the official NSA portal for updates and to ensure all personal data aligns with their national identity records to avoid further delays in their deployment.

Tamale Girls SHS gets refurbished ICT lab
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Tamale Girls Senior High School Receives 70-Computer ICT Laboratory via HORLAP Innovations Partnership

Tamale Girls Senior High School in the Northern Region has achieved a significant milestone in its digital education journey following the handover of a fully refurbished Information and Communication Technology (ICT) laboratory. The facility, which is now equipped with 70 modern computers, was made possible through a strategic collaboration between the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, and HORLAP Innovations. This enhancement is expected to provide students with the necessary tools to navigate the increasingly digital global landscape and ensure they are not left behind in the technological era. The refurbishment project was funded through a joint effort involving HORLAP Innovations and the Minister's Special Initiative in ICT. This initiative underscores a growing commitment to bridging the digital divide in Ghana's northern sector, ensuring that female students have equal access to high-quality technological resources. During the formal handover ceremony, stakeholders emphasized that the 70 new computers are intended to modernize the learning experience, moving beyond theoretical ICT instruction to practical, hands-on application that will benefit the entire student body. Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of HORLAP Innovations, Kelvin Oduro Aboagye, urged the students to take full advantage of the new resources to prepare for their future professional lives. He noted that proficiency in technology is no longer an optional skill but a fundamental requirement for success in the 21st-century workforce. Mr. Aboagye encouraged the young women to explore the diverse career paths offered by the tech industry, highlighting the laboratory as a gateway to global opportunities and innovation. Ms. Aisha Asumah, the Headmistress of Tamale Girls SHS, expressed profound gratitude for the gesture, describing the refurbishment as a life-changing development for the institution. She noted that the improved facility would significantly alleviate the challenges the school previously faced in delivering quality ICT education. As the school integrates these new resources into its curriculum, the administration has pledged to maintain the equipment to ensure it serves future cohorts, reinforcing the broader national goal of digital inclusion and excellence in Ghanaian education.

 Haatso area Virtuous Ladies hold Empowerment Conference 2026
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Mrs. Angela Peasah Charges Young Women to Embrace Growth at Virtuous Ladies Conference 2026

Mrs. Angela Peasah, a past President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Ghana (ICAG), has called on young women to embrace failure as a necessary catalyst for personal and professional growth. Addressing an audience of over 500 participants at the Virtuous Ladies Empowerment Conference 2026, held at PIWC-ATOMIC in Accra, Mrs. Peasah emphasized that self-belief is the foundation for overcoming obstacles. The event, themed "Empowered to Fulfil my Calling," was specifically designed to equip the next generation of female leaders with the essential tools required to navigate contemporary societal and professional challenges. The conference featured intensive training sessions led by a panel of experienced professionals, including Mrs. Rita Sarpong Asante and Mrs. Emma Adwoa Appiaa Osei-Duah. The curriculum focused on five critical soft skills identified as essential for modern leadership: Effective Communication, Leadership Skills, Conflict Management, Emotional Intelligence, and Public Speaking. These modules were curated to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application, ensuring that the attendees are prepared for impactful roles in both their careers and their local communities. Beyond the educational workshops, the gathering served as a platform to honor the contributions of past leaders and motivate current members to pursue excellence. The Atomic Hills District received special recognition for its high level of participation, highlighting a strong local commitment to youth development and mentorship. As the conference concluded, attendees expressed a renewed sense of purpose, noting that the skills and confidence acquired during the sessions would empower them to fulfill their diverse callings and contribute meaningfully to Ghana's development.

Jonathan Kofi Appiah Introduces the 'People Management Triangle' to Bridge the Gap Between Academia and the Workplace
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Jonathan Kofi Appiah Introduces the 'People Management Triangle' to Bridge the Gap Between Academia and the Workplace

Jonathan Kofi Appiah, a career development expert and author, has distilled 18 years of professional experience into a new framework designed to help individuals navigate the complex transition from university to the corporate world. Reflecting on his own journey from a student leader to a professional, Appiah highlights a critical disconnect: while academic institutions excel at teaching technical competence, they often fail to prepare graduates for the nuanced human dynamics of the workplace. His findings suggest that technical brilliance alone is rarely a guarantee of career advancement or organizational harmony. Central to his philosophy is the 'People Management Triangle,' a model that advocates for a balanced focus on managing oneself, one’s staff, and one’s superiors. Appiah argues that effective workplace navigation requires more than just meeting targets; it necessitates high levels of emotional intelligence, strategic communication, and the ability to manage 'upward' relationships with bosses. By mastering these three dimensions, professionals can avoid the common pitfall of becoming technically proficient yet relationally isolated, a situation that often leads to friction and stalled career growth. In his book, 'People Management Triangle: Managing Self, Staff and Boss Effectively,' Appiah emphasizes that relationship-building is just as vital as achieving measurable results. He warns against the dangers of workplace politics when misunderstood and instead encourages leaders and employees to foster healthy, productive environments through mutual respect and interpersonal connectivity. This approach is particularly relevant for new supervisors and managers who may struggle with the shift from being individual contributors to leading diverse teams with varying expectations. The publication serves as a practical guide for a wide audience, ranging from fresh graduates entering their first jobs to seasoned executives looking to refine their leadership style. Appiah's insights remind the Ghanaian workforce that professional success is a collaborative journey. For those seeking to enhance their management practices, the book offers actionable wisdom tailored for the modern, fast-paced professional landscape, ensuring that competence is supported by the social capital necessary to thrive in any organization.

Naa Amorkor Shikafutru I (3rd from left); Nii Amarkai III (2nd from right), the Asere Dzaasetse; Nuumo Akwah Mensah III (3rd from right), the Nae Wulomo of the Ga State, and other guests applauding after the computers had been unveiled
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Naa Amorkor Shikafutru I Launches Digital Skills Lab at Sempe Basic School to Empower Ga Youth

Naa Amorkor Shikafutru I, the Asere Amartse We Manye, has commissioned a new computer laboratory at Sempe Basic School as part of this year's Homowo celebrations. This initiative is designed to bridge the digital divide among Ga youth by providing them with essential technological tools for the modern era. By integrating educational advancement into traditional cultural festivities, the project underscores a commitment to community-led development and the long-term empowerment of the next generation within the Ga State. The newly established facility is equipped with 16 computer desks and five desktop computers, serving as a vital resource for students at Sempe Basic School. During the launch ceremony, Naa Amorkor Shikafutru I emphasized that technology is no longer an optional skill but a fundamental requirement for educational and professional success. She made a passionate plea to corporate organizations and well-meaning individuals to support the project, noting that additional equipment is needed to expand the reach and impact of the laboratory. The digital skills program is a key component of the Manye’s broader "Girl Power Project." While the project maintains a specific focus on empowering girls—including initiatives for menstrual hygiene support—it adopts an inclusive approach that incorporates boys into the developmental process. The Homowo celebrations further supported this mission through a musical and talent concert, which provided a platform for local youth to showcase their skills and celebrate their cultural heritage alongside interfaith community leaders. This community initiative aligns with the broader national goal of digital transformation, which remains a key focus under the administration of President John Mahama. By fostering ICT proficiency at the basic school level, the project prepares students for future academic pursuits and the evolving job market. The continued success of the laboratory will depend on sustained community support and partnerships, setting a benchmark for how traditional leadership can effectively drive modern educational reforms in Ghana.

NABMAG Secures Landmark Agreement for Bimoba Language Integration in National Development Programme
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NABMAG Secures Landmark Agreement for Bimoba Language Integration in National Development Programme

The National Association of Bimoba, Moba and Gurmas (NABMAG) has achieved a significant milestone in cultural and educational advocacy following a successful agreement with the Bureau of Ghana Languages to include the Bimoba language in the national language development programme. This landmark initiative aims to provide formal recognition and academic structure to the language, ensuring its integration into the nation’s linguistic framework. Following productive discussions between NABMAG leaders and state officials, the Bureau has confirmed its commitment to developing the language alongside Mampruli and Wala, marking a major step forward for linguistic diversity in Ghana. Central to the implementation of this agreement is a rigorous data collection phase. The Bureau of Ghana Languages is scheduled to conduct extensive field visits across Bimoba-speaking communities to gather essential linguistic data and documentation. This research will form the foundation for standardizing the language for educational and official use. The culmination of these efforts is set for a formal national launch in November 2026, which is expected to take place at the National Theatre in Accra. NABMAG will play a pivotal role throughout this process, acting as a bridge between the government bureau and the local communities to ensure the accuracy and cultural relevance of the documented materials. The leadership of NABMAG has emphasized that the success of this project depends heavily on the collective support of all stakeholders. The association is calling upon traditional rulers, scholars, and community members to actively participate in the development process. By fostering a collaborative environment, the initiative seeks to not only preserve the technical aspects of the Bimoba language but also to safeguard the unique cultural identity and heritage it represents. This effort is viewed as a vital investment in the intellectual and cultural capital of the Bimoba people, providing a structured medium for the transmission of knowledge to younger generations. As Ghana continues to promote inclusive education and cultural preservation, the inclusion of the Bimoba language serves as a model for community-led advocacy in partnership with state institutions. The long-term implications of this integration extend beyond the classroom; it strengthens the social fabric of the Bimoba-speaking regions and ensures that their linguistic legacy remains vibrant and sustainable. With the 2026 launch on the horizon, the focus now shifts to the meticulous work of documentation and the mobilization of resources necessary to see this historic cultural project through to completion.

UEW Connectivity Crisis: Students and Lecturers Struggle with Unstable Internet During Online Sessions
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UEW Connectivity Crisis: Students and Lecturers Struggle with Unstable Internet During Online Sessions

The University of Education, Winneba (UEW) is currently grappling with significant internet connectivity challenges that are severely disrupting teaching and learning activities. As the institution increasingly relies on digital platforms to deliver education, unstable network connections and slow speeds have become major hurdles for the academic community. Both students and lecturers report that these disruptions are not only hindering the flow of lectures but also compromising the overall quality of the educational experience at the university. Students are particularly hard-hit by these technical difficulties, with many reporting significant obstacles in attending online classes and submitting critical assignments. In some instances, students have reportedly lost marks after being unable to upload work before deadlines due to network failures. Beyond the classroom, the lack of reliable connectivity has made conducting academic research a frustrating and often impossible task. These ongoing issues have created a stressful environment where academic success can be unfairly dictated by the stability of a student's internet signal rather than their academic performance. The situation has also imposed a heavy financial and logistical burden on the student body. To circumvent the university's failing infrastructure, many students are forced to spend limited resources on expensive mobile data packages from private telecommunication companies. Others find themselves traveling to different neighborhoods or searching for specific areas with better signals just to secure a connection stable enough to participate in their courses. This digital divide threatens to disadvantage students who cannot afford the supplementary costs associated with maintaining their own private internet access. Lecturers are equally frustrated by the persistent connectivity issues, which frequently interrupt their presentations and disrupt the engagement of their students. This has led some faculty members to reconsider the long-term viability of current online teaching formats and move toward alternative methods. As UEW looks toward a future where digital education plays a central role, there is an urgent consensus that the university must prioritize investments in robust internet infrastructure. Without reliable and high-speed access, the institution risks falling behind in its mission to provide effective and inclusive education in the digital age.

Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment Prioritises Digital Skills and Patriotism for International Youth Day 2026
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Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment Prioritises Digital Skills and Patriotism for International Youth Day 2026

The Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment has reaffirmed its commitment to the holistic development of Ghanaian youth, marking International Youth Day on August 12, 2026. Under the national theme, "Rebuilding Values, Inspiring Patriotism: Empowering the Youth in the Digital Age," the Ministry underscored the importance of equipping young people with the tools necessary to thrive in an increasingly technological landscape. This year’s celebration aligns with the global theme, "Different Contexts, Common Aspirations," highlighting that while young people face diverse challenges across various communities, their desire for quality education, meaningful employment, and innovation remains a universal goal. Central to the Ministry's agenda is the expansion of digital skills, entrepreneurship training, and economic inclusion. Recognizing the youth as active agents of change, the government is prioritizing initiatives that promote innovation and economic self-reliance. The Ministry’s statement emphasized that fostering a culture of patriotism and positive values is essential for building a resilient nation. By integrating character-building with technical expertise, the state aims to ensure that the next generation of leaders is both competent in the digital economy and deeply committed to Ghana's socio-economic transformation. Beyond economic empowerment, the Ministry is focusing on the mental health awareness and civic engagement of young Ghanaians. There is a concerted effort to create a more inclusive environment where socioeconomic backgrounds do not hinder a young person's potential. The Ministry called for an "all-hands-on-deck" approach, advocating for collaboration across various sectors and stakeholders to support responsible citizenship. This inclusive strategy aims to bridge the gap between different social contexts, ensuring that no young person is left behind as the nation progresses toward a more prosperous future. Looking ahead, the Ministry encouraged the youth to embrace innovation and take a proactive role in national development. By fostering an environment conducive to creativity and civic participation, the government seeks to create a prosperous and inclusive Ghana where every young person can reach their full potential. As the digital age continues to reshape global industries, the Ministry's strategic focus on values and skills serves as a roadmap to harness the resilience and creativity of Ghana's youth for long-term national growth.