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.

The image shows the ornate yellow and black entrance gate of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS) in Ghana. The architecture features a central security booth topped with a Ghanaian traditional stool motif, with paved driveways and landscaped plant beds in the foreground.
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Zakaria Abdulai interdicted over alleged sexual abuse of 14 students

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has interdicted the headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS), Zakaria Abdulai, following serious allegations of sexual misconduct. The interdiction, which was directed by the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, on October 13, 2026, follows a media report detailing the alleged abuse of 14 female students at the institution over the past year. The Ministry has emphasized that the suspension is necessary to facilitate a thorough and transparent investigation into the claims. The allegations were brought to public attention by investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni during an interview on JoyNews. The report, which highlighted a pattern of misconduct involving multiple students, triggered immediate unrest among the student body. The resulting disturbances led to damage to school property, prompting authorities to temporarily close the campus to ensure the safety of students and staff and to prevent further destruction. In addition to the administrative suspension by the GES, Minister Iddrisu has formally requested a police investigation into the headmaster's conduct. A complaint has already been lodged with the police in Obuasi to pursue criminal charges if the evidence warrants it. The government has stressed that the legal process will be handled with the necessary urgency to ensure justice for the affected students and their families. The GES has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high professional standards and a safe learning environment. While the school remains closed for the time being, officials have indicated that the interdiction is a preliminary step while a formal disciplinary committee reviews the findings. The service has assured the public that it maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding any behavior that compromises the physical and emotional welfare of learners under its supervision.

University Administrators demands 114% market premium before calling off strike
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GAUA demands 114% market premium restoration to end strike

The Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA) has conditioned the suspension of its industrial action on a formal commitment from the government to restore their market premium to 114% of basic salary. This demand follows an appeal from the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, for the association to end its strike and allow public universities to reopen by October 19, 2026. The ongoing strike has already disrupted the academic calendars of major institutions, including the University of Ghana and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). According to GAUA National President Reverend Kwaku Karikari Amoah, the association is awaiting a formal response from the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) before consulting its members on a possible return to work. The union contends that the market premium has significantly eroded, falling from 114% in 2012 to less than 25% currently. The FWSC has reportedly agreed to seek a mandate from the Ministry of Finance to address the disparity, which GAUA argues has left administrative staff lagging behind their teaching counterparts in terms of total compensation. While the government has proposed a 40% increase in the market premium and non-basic allowances to encourage a resumption of work, GAUA remains focused on the full restoration of the 114% rate. Reverend Amoah Karikari previously emphasized that the strike would remain in effect until these conditions are met, despite directives from the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) for universities to resume academic activities. The association is also tracking progress on other matters, including retirement arrangements and a one-time research allowance, as negotiations continue to avoid further delays to the university semester.

A wide-angle photograph of the iconic entrance to the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi, Ghana. The central monument features a tall black pillar with vertical yellow 'KNUST' lettering, topped with a golden eagle statue, surrounded by lush green lawns and tropical palm trees.
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KNUST sets October 15 for freshmen to report after strike delays

The management of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has announced revised reopening dates for the 2026/2027 academic year. Fresh students are now expected to report to campus on Thursday, October 15, 2026, while continuing students will return on Saturday, October 17, 2026. This decision follows an emergency meeting of the university's Executive Committee and shifts the start date from the initially scheduled October 13. According to an official notice signed by the Deputy Registrar, E. T. Otieku, lectures for all students are set to commence on Monday, October 19, 2026. The postponement was necessitated by ongoing industrial action by the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA) and the Tertiary University Staff Association of Ghana (TUSAAG). The GAUA strike, which began on August 10, 2026, has significantly impacted administrative operations across several public universities in the country. The revised schedule aligns with a directive from the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), which recently instructed public universities to reopen and resume lectures by Friday, October 16, 2026, despite the ongoing labour disputes. KNUST's move mirrors similar adjustments made by other institutions, including the University of Ghana, which also delayed its reopening from an original date of October 12. University authorities have urged all stakeholders, including students and their families, to take note of the new arrangements as the institution works to restore normalcy to the academic calendar. This announcement provides clarity for the incoming class and continuing students who have faced uncertainty due to the turbulent administrative environment in the higher education sector.

Marian Jemima Akua Adzroe honoured for educational leadership in Volta Region
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Marian Jemima Akua Adzroe honoured for educational leadership in Volta Region

Marian Jemima Akua Adzroe, the Acting Volta Regional Director of Education, has been formally recognized for her transformative leadership and extensive contributions to the educational sector in the Volta Region. Honoured under the Education Excellence category, Adzroe’s recognition stems from her consistent efforts to improve academic outcomes and empower the youth through both pedagogical and vocational initiatives. Her leadership has been characterized by a proactive approach to addressing regional educational challenges and fostering inclusive development. During her tenure, Adzroe has prioritized reversing declining student performance across the region's schools. A key component of her strategy involved organizing intensive workshops specifically for Senior High School (SHS) heads. These sessions were designed to address administrative hurdles and implement more effective teaching and monitoring methodologies. These institutional interventions aim to stabilize academic standards and ensure that school leadership is better equipped to meet the evolving needs of students and teachers alike. Beyond formal classroom education, Adzroe has made significant strides in social empowerment through the ERIJEM Institute. Through this platform, she has overseen the provision of vocational training to more than 1,000 young people, equipping them with practical skills to enhance their employability and economic independence. Additionally, her work includes dedicated support for visually impaired students at the Ho School for the Blind, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and the skill development of vulnerable groups in the region. The recognition of Adzroe’s work highlights the critical impact of dedicated regional leadership in driving both academic and social progress. By bridging the gap between traditional academic schooling and practical vocational skill acquisition, her initiatives provide a comprehensive model for youth development in Ghana. As she continues her service in the Volta Region, these established programmes are expected to provide a lasting framework for educational enhancement and sustainable community empowerment.

Ayesha Khanna warns AI reliance in schools impairs critical thinking
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Ayesha Khanna warns AI reliance in schools impairs critical thinking

Technology expert Dr. Ayesha Khanna has issued a stern warning regarding the growing integration of artificial intelligence in educational settings, cautioning that it could fundamentally undermine students' critical thinking capabilities. Speaking at the "IMF Inspired" session during the 2026 IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings in Bangkok, Dr. Khanna emphasized that the convenience of AI tools often comes at a significant cost to the cognitive development of young learners. She argued that the educational sector must find a balance between technological adoption and the preservation of fundamental human intellectual skills. The core of the concern lies in how students utilize AI to complete academic work. According to Dr. Khanna, when students rely heavily on these technologies for school assignments, they risk losing the ability to engage deeply with their subjects. This dependency can lead to a failure in knowledge retention, as the process of researching, synthesizing, and writing—which traditionally solidifies learning—is outsourced to an algorithm. She noted that without the struggle of original thought, the brain’s ability to process and remember information is effectively bypassed. Beyond simple memorization, Dr. Khanna highlighted the long-term danger to the development of independent thought. She argued that students who depend on AI are likely to struggle when asked to formulate independent arguments or challenge existing ideas. The tendency for AI to provide polished, pre-packaged answers discourages the trial-and-error process necessary for intellectual growth. As a result, the next generation of professionals may find themselves ill-equipped to handle complex, nuanced problems that require human intuition and original analysis, posing a broader challenge for future workforces.

Peki Secondary School alumni break ground for new entrance and fence
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Peki Secondary School alumni break ground for new entrance and fence

Alumni from the 2003 and 2011 year groups of Peki Secondary School have launched a project to construct an ultra-modern entrance and a security fence for the institution. The groundbreaking ceremony marks a significant step in addressing long-standing security concerns and infrastructural decay at the school, which was established in 1957. This initiative is being spearheaded by former students, including CEO Mr. David Aziago, who aim to revitalize the 70-year-old campus. For decades, Peki Secondary School has contended with aging infrastructure that has not kept pace with its growing student population. The new project is designed to provide a secure environment for students and staff while giving the campus a modern and professional aesthetic. During the ceremony, the Paramount Chief of the Peki Traditional Area and school officials joined the alumni to celebrate the intervention, emphasizing the critical role that old students play in the development of their alma maters. The Headmistress, Madam Peace Goka, commended the alumni for their proactive approach but noted that the school still faces substantial challenges. She specifically highlighted the need for expanded facilities to accommodate a rising number of female students. Madam Goka called for continued support from other year groups and the government, stressing that the sustained improvement of educational standards in Ghana requires a collaborative effort between the state, parents, and the community.

Accra Metropolitan University presents Dzenten Festival plans to Ga Mantse
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Accra Metropolitan University presents Dzenten Festival plans to Ga Mantse

A five-member delegation from Accra Metropolitan University, led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Goski Alabi, has paid a courtesy call on the Ga Mantse, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, to discuss the inaugural Dzenten Festival. The meeting, held ahead of the festival's scheduled date of November 1, focused on the institutional collaboration required to celebrate the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Gadangme people. The festival is a joint initiative between the university and the office of the Gborbu Wulomo-Shitse, aimed at bringing national and international attention to indigenous traditions.\n\nDuring the engagement, Professor Alabi highlighted the central role of the Angmu Te rock, a historical landmark in Sakumo-Nungua, which the festival seeks to honor. She emphasized the university's commitment to academic and cultural preservation, noting that the institution is actively advocating for the Angmu Te rock to be recognized on UNESCO’s cultural heritage listings. This effort reflects a broader institutional goal to document and promote Ghanaian historical sites through research and community engagement.\n\nIn response, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II expressed his full support for the festival and the university's proactive approach to cultural heritage. He noted that such initiatives are vital for strengthening goodwill and unity within the Gadangme community. The traditional leader commended the partnership between the university and the Gborbu Wulomo-Shitse’s office, stating that the integration of academic resources with traditional leadership is essential for the sustainable preservation of the people's history.\n\nThe Dzenten Festival is expected to serve as a significant cultural milestone, drawing stakeholders from various sectors to Sakumo-Nungua. Beyond the immediate celebrations, the partnership aims to establish a framework for ongoing documentation of Gadangme history. By securing greater recognition for sites like the Angmu Te rock, the organizers hope to foster a deeper sense of identity among the youth while promoting the region as a hub for cultural tourism.

Solicity Amankwa-Taylor wins three academic awards at UMaT graduation
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Solicity Amankwa-Taylor wins three academic awards at UMaT graduation

Solicity Amankwa-Taylor, a graduate of the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), has been honored with three prestigious academic awards during the university's recent graduation ceremony. Her success marks a significant turnaround from a period of extreme financial uncertainty where she nearly faced the deferral of her studies. Amankwa-Taylor emerged as the Best Graduating Student in both her department and faculty, a feat she attributes to the timely intervention of external financial support. The journey to this academic milestone was fraught with challenges following her father's job loss. The resulting financial strain on her family threatened her ability to continue her education at UMaT, as tuition and accommodation costs became insurmountable. However, the trajectory of her academic career changed when she was selected for the MTN Bright Scholarship. This financial relief covered her essential academic expenses, allowing her to transition from the brink of dropping out to focusing entirely on her coursework and research. Relieved of the burden of self-funding her education, Amankwa-Taylor excelled in her studies, eventually sweeping three awards at her graduation. These included the top honors for academic performance within her specific department and the broader faculty. Her story highlights the critical role that corporate social responsibility and targeted scholarships play in ensuring that high-achieving students from underprivileged backgrounds can complete their tertiary education and contribute to the national economy. Following her successful graduation, Amankwa-Taylor has moved into the professional sphere, where she currently serves as Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) personnel at YILPORT-ATSL. Her transition from a scholarship recipient to a professional in the mining and logistics sector underscores the practical impact of the MTN Bright Scholarship program. Her experience serves as an inspiration for other students facing financial barriers, demonstrating that academic excellence is attainable with the right support systems in place.

Wenchi Methodist SHS marks inaugural Founder’s Day with call for support
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Wenchi Methodist SHS marks inaugural Founder’s Day with call for support

Wenchi Methodist Senior High School (WEMESS) has celebrated its inaugural Founder’s Day to commemorate its establishment and long-standing impact on national development. The event, held under the theme "Investing our future, improving infrastructure for academic excellence," brought together school leadership, alumni, and clergy to honor the institution's journey since it opened its doors on October 1, 1963. The celebration served as a platform to recognize the school’s growth from a small local institution into a major contributor to Ghana's human resource pool. Speaking at the ceremony, the Most Reverend Professor Paul Kwabena Boafo, Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church Ghana, lauded the founders for their vision in creating an institution that has evolved significantly over six decades. From an initial intake of just 67 boys, the school now serves a diverse population of approximately 2,000 students. Notably, Rev. Prof. Boafo highlighted that WEMESS holds the distinction of being the first secondary school in Ghana to integrate visually impaired students into its academic environment, marking a significant milestone in the history of inclusive education in the country. Despite these historical successes, the school leadership highlighted that the institution continues to grapple with significant infrastructure deficits that threaten its academic goals. Rev. Prof. Boafo and school authorities used the occasion to appeal for urgent support from the government, old students, and corporate bodies to help complete several stalled projects on campus. They emphasized that providing modern, adequate facilities is essential to maintaining the school’s standard of excellence and accommodating the needs of its growing student body. The celebration concluded with a call to action for stakeholders to reinvest in the school's future. By honoring its origins, WEMESS aims to strengthen its ties with the community and alumni network, ensuring that the institution remains a beacon of academic and moral excellence for the next generation of Ghanaian students. The successful hosting of this first Founder's Day is expected to become an annual tradition to track progress and mobilize resources for the school's development.

Evelyn Anyenini, a legal practitioner, presenting an award to a pupil. Looking on are Reginald Dzonu-Ahlijah, Grand Knight of Council 71, and Veronica Zigah, Noble Lady of Court 63, Dansoman in Accra
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Knights and Ladies of Marshall host reading clinic for Dansoman students

The Knights and Ladies of Marshall, a Catholic fraternal society, organized a specialized reading clinic on October 10, 2026, to promote a strong reading culture among basic school students in Dansoman, Accra. The initiative was designed to address literacy challenges and encourage young learners to engage more deeply with books. As part of the event's practical support for education, the organization donated 120 books to the libraries of participating local schools to ensure students have continuous access to quality literature. The clinic featured a variety of interactive segments, including storytelling sessions, reading competitions, and group discussions. These activities aimed to make reading enjoyable while testing the students' comprehension and phonetic skills. Grand Knight Reginald Dzonu-Ahlijah, addressing the participants, emphasized that a solid foundation in reading is indispensable for academic success and personal growth. He encouraged the children to prioritize their studies and make books their constant companions to ensure a brighter future. Adding a professional perspective to the event, guest speaker Mrs. Evelyn Anyenini spoke to the students about the benefits of daily reading habits. She urged the children to set aside specific times each day for reading, noting that regular practice improves vocabulary and critical thinking. The organizers noted that the event was a response to the need for community-led interventions that support the formal education system in building a more literate society. The donation of 120 books was a highlight of the day, intended to replenish school library stocks and provide students with new, engaging content. By providing these resources, the Marshallans aim to ensure that the momentum generated during the clinic continues within the school environment. This project underscores the organization’s ongoing commitment to social responsibility and its focus on empowering the next generation through enhanced educational opportunities in the Dansoman area.

Alhassan Abdul Fataw Jofa donates 1,500 mono desks to Yendi schools
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Alhassan Abdul Fataw Jofa donates 1,500 mono desks to Yendi schools

Alhassan Abdul Fataw Jofa, the Member of Parliament for Yendi, has presented 1,500 mono desks to the Yendi Municipal Directorate of the Ghana Education Service (GES). This significant donation is aimed at mitigating the acute shortage of furniture within the local school system, which has hindered effective teaching and learning for many years. Currently, many students in the municipality are forced to sit on the floor or share desks, a situation that the MP described as unacceptable for a modern educational environment. During a ceremony marking the handover, Mr. Jofa emphasized his dedication to improving the educational standards in his constituency. He stated that the provision of these desks is a crucial step in ensuring that every student has a comfortable and conducive space to study, which is fundamental to academic success. The MP highlighted that his focus remains on addressing basic infrastructure needs, which are essential to the success of national educational goals. He further pledged to continue seeking resources to support schools across the Yendi area to ensure no child is left behind due to poor facilities. The Deputy Director of Education for the Yendi municipality, Akolgo, received the furniture on behalf of the GES. He expressed profound gratitude for the MP's intervention, noting that the shortage of furniture has been a persistent challenge that has stressed both pupils and teachers in the district. Akolgo assured the MP and the community that the desks would be distributed fairly, prioritizing those schools with the most urgent needs. He also stressed the importance of maintenance, pledging that the GES would work with school heads to ensure the desks are well-kept for future generations of students. The 1,500 mono desks are expected to be deployed across various basic and second-cycle institutions immediately. This initiative is seen as part of a larger effort by the MP to bolster human capital development in Yendi through targeted investments in the education sector. Local residents and educators have welcomed the move, noting that it will reduce the physical strain on pupils and allow them to focus better on their academic pursuits, ultimately improving the quality of education in the municipality.

General Legal Council admits 1,568 new lawyers to the Ghana Bar
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General Legal Council admits 1,568 new lawyers to the Ghana Bar

The General Legal Council officially enrolled 1,568 newly qualified lawyers into the legal profession during the 63rd Call to the Bar ceremony held in Accra on October 9, 2026. This significant milestone for the Ghanaian legal fraternity saw the admission of a large cohort of practitioners who have successfully completed their professional law course. The event was attended by high-profile figures, including four Members of Parliament and various media personalities, highlighting the national significance of the enrollment process. Among the new practitioners, Akosua Achiaa Sarpong from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) distinguished herself by winning the prestigious John Mensah Sarbah Award for Best All-Round Student. Her achievement stood out during a ceremony that celebrated both individual excellence and the collective resilience of the students. The day’s proceedings were characterized by a festive atmosphere, with families and supporters turning the area into what observers described as a street festival, celebrating the culmination of years of rigorous academic work. However, the celebration was also a moment for sober reflection on the systemic challenges facing legal education in Ghana. The ceremony emphasized the significant financial and academic pressures that students must overcome to qualify for the bar. High costs associated with tuition and professional equipment, often referred to as the "cost of the wig and gown," were identified as major hurdles. There were calls for stakeholders to provide more robust support systems to ensure that talented but underprivileged candidates are not excluded from the profession due to financial constraints. This new intake of over 1,500 lawyers is expected to contribute to the delivery of justice and legal services across the country. As they enter various sectors of the economy, the legal community continues to advocate for reforms that would make the path to qualification more accessible while maintaining the high standards of the Ghana Bar. The successful induction of this cohort marks a key moment in the ongoing expansion and evolution of Ghana's legal infrastructure.