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.

Ghana TVET Service launches National TVET Week 2026 in Tamale
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Ghana TVET Service launches National TVET Week 2026 in Tamale

The Ghana TVET Service has officially launched the National TVET Week 2026 at the Dabokpa Technical Institute in Tamale, marking the start of a week-long celebration dedicated to technical and vocational training. Running from October 12 to October 16, the event is held under the theme ‐Resetting TVET for National Development.‑ This annual initiative serves as a primary platform to increase public awareness regarding the value of technical skills and to strengthen the relationship between training institutions and industrial partners across the country. During the opening ceremony, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu highlighted the critical role of a skilled workforce in driving Ghana’s economic growth. He emphasized that the government is focused on equipping the youth with practical competencies that meet current market demands, thereby addressing unemployment and fostering a culture of entrepreneurship. The Minister noted that the current focus involves a strategic shift in how technical education is perceived, positioning it as a viable pathway for professional success and national transformation rather than a secondary educational option. Throughout the week, the Ghana TVET Service will host a variety of activities including policy dialogues, industry engagement sessions, and career guidance workshops. These events are designed to showcase technical careers and provide students with direct insights into modern industrial requirements. The Director-General of the Ghana TVET Service stressed that the ultimate goal is to align educational curricula with the evolving needs of the private sector, ensuring that graduates are ready for immediate employment or prepared to start their own businesses upon completion of their training.

Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, Member of Parliament for Tamale South, is captured speaking at a formal engagement while standing behind a podium. He is dressed in a dark navy suit and reddish-brown tie, set against a vibrant geometric background with a Ministry of Education logo visible.
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Haruna Iddrisu proposes 10% annual rent increase cap for universities

Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu has announced plans to establish a committee to regulate annual rent increases for student accommodation in public universities. The proposal aims to introduce a predictable system for price adjustments, potentially capping annual hikes between 5 and 10 percent. This move is designed to protect students from arbitrary and excessive charges imposed by private hostel operators and ensures that accommodation costs align with broader economic conditions. The intervention follows growing concerns from students, particularly at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), who have voiced frustrations over the high cost and poor quality of private housing. Some students reported paying upwards of GH₵6,000 for shared rooms that they described as cramped and inadequate. These escalating costs have prompted calls for government intervention to ensure that tertiary education remains accessible and that accommodation providers offer facilities that justify their fees. Under the proposed plan, the new committee will evaluate economic factors, such as inflation and utility costs, to provide informed recommendations. These findings will serve as a guide for the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, in setting official limits on how much hostel rates can rise each year. Minister Iddrisu emphasized that a structured approach is necessary to prevent the unregulated price surges that currently burden families and students across the country. While the focus is on public universities, the policy addresses a wider systemic issue where private hostel owners largely dictate market prices without oversight. By establishing a formal advisory body, the government hopes to balance the interests of private investors with the financial realities of the student population. The next steps involve the formal constitution of the committee and the development of a framework to ensure compliance among accommodation providers nationwide.

Education Minister asks GETFund to allocate GH¢100million to St. Paul's Technical School to produce beds for schools
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Haruna Iddrisu seeks GH₵100m from GETFund for school furniture production

Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu has formally requested the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) to allocate GH₵100 million to St. Paul’s Technical School in Kukurantumi. The proposed funding is specifically aimed at addressing the significant furniture deficit currently affecting senior high schools across the country. By utilizing the Eastern Region-based technical school, the ministry plans to produce beds and chairs locally, potentially in partnership with other vocational institutions to meet national demand. This initiative represents a strategic shift toward leveraging domestic technical expertise to solve critical infrastructure challenges in the education sector. The Minister emphasized the importance of this local production model in ensuring that students have access to necessary furniture while supporting indigenous industrialization. This project is part of a broader effort to reduce shortages that have historically hampered the student experience in boarding facilities. Beyond the furniture initiative, the government is pursuing additional international support to enhance educational standards. Mr. Iddrisu disclosed a separate request for US$200 million from the World Bank to fund a new integrated basic education model. This proposal is distinct from the US$300 million already approved for the STARR-J Project, which is dedicated to the construction and upgrading of schools, including specialized facilities for students with special needs. These infrastructure and procurement projects are expected to be completed within a timeline of 12 to 18 months. The Minister noted that these investments are essential for modernizing the Ghanaian education system and creating a more inclusive learning environment. By integrating technical schools into the national supply chain, the ministry hopes to establish a sustainable framework for maintaining school infrastructure in the long term.

Haruna Iddrisu inaugurates National Defence University Governing Council
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Haruna Iddrisu inaugurates National Defence University Governing Council

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has inaugurated a 19-member Governing Council for the National Defence University (NDU) in Accra, marking a significant step in centralizing Ghana's military and security education. Chaired by Professor John Owusu Gyapong, the council is tasked with overseeing the institution's development following the passage of the National Defence University Act, 2026. The government has allocated GH₵25 million in seed funding to support the university's initial operations as it works to unify various defence-related educational programs. The university's establishment aims to address emerging security threats by providing a centralized platform for research, strategic leadership, and high-level training. During the inauguration, Mr. Iddrisu emphasized that the NDU would serve as a center of excellence, offering programs not only to the Ghana Armed Forces and security personnel but also to civilians. This inclusive approach is intended to strengthen military-civil relations, which the Minister noted is crucial for maintaining democratic stability and national cohesion. Professor John Owusu Gyapong and the council members were urged to uphold the highest standards of meritocracy, ensuring that all admissions and appointments are conducted with transparency and professional integrity. The Minister stressed that the institution must be free from discrimination to truly reflect its status as a premier national body. In his response, Professor Gyapong committed to fostering public trust and ensuring the university delivers on its mandate to equip professionals with the necessary expertise for national defence. The NDU will initially operate through six accredited colleges while its main campus is under construction at the Whistler Barracks in Teshie. This phased rollout allows for immediate academic engagement while the physical infrastructure is being developed. Once fully operational, the institution is expected to provide a robust framework for security studies in Ghana, eventually positioning the country as a regional hub for defence education and strategic analysis.

Haruna Iddrisu suspends Zakaria Abdulai over sexual misconduct claims
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Haruna Iddrisu suspends Zakaria Abdulai over sexual misconduct claims

The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has directed the Ghana Education Service (GES) to immediately suspend Zakaria Abdulai, the headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS). The directive follows grave allegations of sexual misconduct involving a female student at the institution. The Minister’s intervention comes in response to investigative reports produced by journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni and JoyNews, which brought the alleged incident to public attention and prompted an urgent review by the Ministry. In a formal communication to the Director-General of the GES, the Minister emphasized that the allegations are being treated with the utmost seriousness. Beyond the administrative suspension of the headmaster, the Ministry of Education has formally requested the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service to launch a comprehensive investigation into the matter. This dual approach aims to ensure that both institutional disciplinary protocols and criminal justice procedures are followed to resolve the case. The Ministry has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy regarding any form of misconduct within the country's educational institutions. Officials underscored that teachers and school administrators hold a fundamental duty of care to protect the students entrusted to them. By taking this swift action, the Ministry aims to maintain the integrity of the educational system and ensure a safe learning environment for all students. Further steps regarding the headmaster’s tenure will be determined by the findings of the CID and the internal GES inquiry.

Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, Ghana's Minister for Education, is shown speaking during an official meeting. He is dressed in a white traditional outfit and a striped fugu cap, seated at a desk with a GTV microphone and documents in front of him.
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GTEC directs public universities to reopen by October 16

The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has issued a formal directive to all public universities to reopen for the 2026/2027 academic year by Wednesday, October 16, 2026. Under the mandate, academic lectures are scheduled to commence on Monday, October 19, despite ongoing industrial action by administrative staff. This move is intended to curb the continued disruption of the academic calendar at major institutions, including the University of Ghana (UG) and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), which have both postponed their reopening dates due to strike action. Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu expressed optimism that the current impasse with the Ghana Association of University Administrators (GAUA) and the Technical Universities Senior Administrators Association of Ghana (TUSAAG) will be resolved by the weekend. Speaking after emergency meetings with stakeholders, the Minister revealed that the government is currently processing GH₵12 million in outstanding allowances to address part of the administrators' grievances. He emphasized that the resumption of academic activities is a priority under President John Mahama’s "Reset Agenda" to ensure stability in the tertiary sector. The primary point of contention remains the restoration of the market premium for university administrators to 114% of their basic salary. GAUA President Rev. Kwaku Karikari Amoah noted that this premium has eroded significantly since 2012. While the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) is expected to provide a final response on the matter by October 16, other concerns such as research allowances and retirement rollovers have reportedly been addressed. The Minister has urged the unions to suspend their strike in good faith while the FWSC seeks a final mandate from the Ministry of Finance. To ensure a smooth transition, GTEC has instructed university managements to restore essential services by October 15, with Vice-Chancellors required to submit readiness reports by October 14. Beyond the labor dispute, Minister Iddrisu also highlighted the need for universities to address rising student accommodation costs. He suggested that the government is exploring rent loan options through the Student Loan Trust to protect students from exorbitant charges by private hostel operators, ensuring that the return to campus is financially feasible for the student body.

Most Reverend Paul Kwabena Boafo seeks support for Wenchi Methodist SHS
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Most Reverend Paul Kwabena Boafo seeks support for Wenchi Methodist SHS

Most Reverend Professor Paul Kwabena Boafo, the Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church Ghana, has lauded Wenchi Methodist Senior High School for its significant contribution to national human resource development. Speaking at the institution's inaugural Founder’s Day celebration, he highlighted the school's transformative journey since its establishment on October 1, 1963. The event, held under the theme "Investing our future, improving infrastructure for academic excellence," served as both a commemoration of the school's history and a platform to address its current developmental needs. From its humble beginnings with only 67 male students, Wenchi Methodist SHS has expanded to accommodate a diverse student population of approximately 2,000. Rev. Prof. Boafo particularly emphasized the school's pioneering role in inclusive education, noting it was the first institution in the country to integrate visually impaired students into its academic programs. This commitment to diversity has allowed the school to produce numerous graduates who have contributed significantly to various sectors of the national economy over the past six decades. Despite these academic and social achievements, the Presiding Bishop pointed out that the school is currently grappling with significant infrastructure deficits that threaten its mission. He drew attention to several stalled projects that are urgently needed to accommodate the growing student body. Rev. Prof. Boafo appealed to the government, alumni, and other stakeholders to provide the necessary support to complete these facilities, ensuring the school continues to provide a conducive environment for academic excellence. The celebration of Founder's Day marks a significant milestone for the school as it seeks to bridge the gap between its illustrious past and its future potential. By addressing the pressing infrastructure challenges, stakeholders aim to sustain the school’s reputation as a center for inclusive and quality education in the region, ensuring it remains a vital part of Ghana's educational landscape.

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

Marian Jemima Akua Adzroe, the Acting Volta Regional Director of Education, has been officially recognized for her transformative leadership and significant contributions to the education sector. Honoured under the Education Excellence category, Adzroe's work has been highlighted as a benchmark for regional educational management and social development. The recognition underscores her dual focus on maintaining formal academic standards while simultaneously driving the practical empowerment of young people through vocational training and inclusive support. A central pillar of Adzroe’s leadership has been her proactive approach to addressing academic challenges within the Volta Region. She notably organized and led specialized workshops for Senior High School (SHS) heads, which were specifically designed to tackle the issue of declining student performance. By fostering a collaborative environment for school administrators, these initiatives aimed to implement strategic interventions to improve examination results and overall teaching quality across regional institutions. Beyond the traditional classroom setting, Adzroe has made a substantial impact through the ERIJEM Institute. Under her guidance, the institute has provided essential vocational training to over 1,000 young individuals, directly enhancing their employability and economic prospects. This commitment to skill acquisition is paired with her dedicated support for inclusive education, particularly her efforts to assist visually impaired students at the Ho School for the Blind. Her work there has focused on ensuring that vulnerable groups have the access and resources required to pursue their educational goals despite physical challenges. These combined efforts reflect a comprehensive strategy for regional development that prioritizes both academic excellence and social empowerment. By bridging the gap between formal education and practical skills, Marian Adzroe has established a model for leadership that addresses the diverse needs of the youth in the Volta Region. Her recognition serves as a testament to the importance of targeted educational interventions and the positive ripple effect they have on community growth and the national workforce.

Education Minister assures teachers of salary adjustments by October 16
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Haruna Iddrisu confirms October 16 deadline for teacher salary adjustments

The Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has announced that the government will pay outstanding promotion-related salary adjustments to eligible teachers by October 16, 2026. This commitment follows the suspension of a nationwide strike by three pre-tertiary teacher unions—the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Pre-tertiary Teachers Association of Ghana (PRETAG). The Minister's assurance comes after successful negotiations aimed at resolving long-standing grievances regarding service conditions and unfulfilled financial obligations. During a visit to the Osu Presbyterian Cluster of Schools, Mr. Iddrisu explained that administrative processes are currently underway to validate records and ensure accurate payments for teachers who have received permanent promotions. He also addressed the proposed 20% deprived-area allowance, noting that further validation is required to identify specific eligible areas and personnel. Despite national financial constraints, the Minister emphasized the government’s readiness to engage with unions to maintain industrial harmony and ensure that students remain in a safe learning environment. The industrial action, which began on September 25, 2026, was suspended on October 9 after government intervention. Teachers officially returned to classrooms on October 12, though reports on student attendance have been mixed. While schools in the Greater Accra Region saw teachers supervising assemblies and preparing for the week, some primary schools in the Sunyani Municipality recorded low student turnout initially. Headteachers in those areas have urged parents to return their children to school promptly to recover lost lesson time. Various stakeholders, including the Council of State and the National Council of Parent-Teacher Associations (NC-PTAs), have commended the strike suspension and urged all parties to adhere to the agreed timelines in good faith. The NC-PTAs specifically acknowledged the intervention of President John Mahama in facilitating the dialogue. Moving forward, the government and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission are expected to work proactively with the unions to finalize the remaining aspects of the collective agreement and ensure lasting stability within the education sector.

Dr Ayesha Khanna warns AI use in schools weakens critical thinking
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Dr Ayesha Khanna warns AI use in schools weakens critical thinking

Technology expert Dr. Ayesha Khanna has cautioned that the increasing reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) to complete school assignments could significantly undermine students' critical-thinking skills. Speaking at the "IMF Inspired" session during the 2026 IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings in Bangkok, Dr. Khanna highlighted the potential long-term academic consequences of over-dependence on automated tools. She argued that while technology offers efficiency, it should not replace the foundational cognitive processes required for deep learning and analysis. During her address, Dr. Khanna noted that students who lean too heavily on AI risk losing the ability to formulate independent arguments. She expressed concern that the convenience of generated text might bypass the rigorous mental exercise of researching, synthesizing information, and constructing a logical narrative. This lack of engagement with the material, she warned, often leads to poor knowledge retention, as students become mere conduits for AI-generated outputs rather than active learners. The warning comes as educational institutions globally grapple with the integration of generative AI into the classroom. The session at the IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings provided a platform for global experts to discuss the intersection of emerging technologies and human capital development. Dr. Khanna’s insights suggest a need for educators to reconsider how assignments are structured to ensure that students continue to develop the essential analytical skills required in a rapidly evolving global economy.

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 organise reading clinic for Dansoman students

The Knights and Ladies of Marshall organized a comprehensive school reading project on October 10, 2026, aimed at fostering a robust reading culture among children in Dansoman, Accra. The initiative was designed to engage young learners through interactive sessions and provide tangible resources to support their academic development. By bringing together students from various local schools, the organization highlighted the critical role that early literacy plays in shaping a child's future. The event featured a diverse range of educational activities, including storytelling sessions, reading competitions, and intellectual discussions. Grand Knight Reginald Dzonu-Ahlijah addressed the participants, emphasizing that establishing a strong foundation in reading is essential for the long-term success of every child. Guest speaker Mrs. Evelyn Anyenini also spoke at the clinic, encouraging the students to develop daily reading habits and noting that consistent practice is the key to expanding their knowledge and vocabulary beyond the standard classroom curriculum. To ensure the project has a lasting impact on the community, the Marshallans concluded the program by donating 120 books to the libraries of the participating schools. This contribution is intended to provide students with a wider variety of reading materials to explore during their leisure time and to replenish school resources. Organizers believe that by equipping these libraries, they are providing the necessary tools for students to maintain the enthusiasm for literacy generated during the clinic. This reading clinic reflects the ongoing commitment of the Knights and Ladies of Marshall to community service and educational support within the Dansoman area. Such initiatives are vital in addressing literacy gaps and encouraging communal involvement in the academic progress of the youth. The organization expressed hope that this project would serve as a catalyst for similar educational interventions, reinforcing the importance of community-led efforts in shaping the intellectual landscape for the next generation of Ghanaians.

Accra Metropolitan University visits Ga Mantse for maiden Dzenten Festival
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Accra Metropolitan University visits Ga Mantse for maiden Dzenten Festival

A five-member delegation from Accra Metropolitan University, led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Goski Alabi, has paid a courtesy call to the Ga Mantse, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, to discuss the upcoming Dzenten Festival. Scheduled for November 1 in Sakumo-Nungua, the inaugural festival is a collaboration between the university and the Gborbu Wulomo-Shitse's office. The visit served as a formal engagement to secure the support of the traditional leadership and highlight the festival's role in celebrating Gadangme cultural heritage. During the meeting, Professor Alabi emphasized the importance of the Angmu Te rock, a historical and spiritual landmark for the Gadangme people. The university aims to promote the site's significance and is actively advocating for its inclusion in UNESCO’s heritage listings to ensure its global recognition and preservation. This initiative reflects the university's broader mission to integrate academic research with the protection of indigenous landmarks and oral histories. Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II expressed his full support for the festival, noting that such cultural initiatives are essential for strengthening goodwill and unity within the Gadangme community. He praised the university for its proactive role in documenting traditional history and fostering ties with the community. The Ga Mantse’s endorsement is expected to bolster participation and interest in the festival from across the region. The maiden Dzenten Festival represents a significant step in the preservation of Ghanaian cultural identity through the partnership of academic institutions and traditional authorities. By focusing on historical sites like Angmu Te, the event aims to create a lasting legacy of cultural awareness and heritage tourism. The collaboration sets a precedent for how universities can contribute to national development by honoring and protecting the country's diverse cultural foundations.