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.

Nana Eduwaa Appiah (right), newly elected President, with the other executive members
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EPCG, Zonta Club, and Philanthropists Drive New Educational Support Initiatives Across Ghana

A wave of community-led and religious initiatives is reshaping educational support across Ghana, as various organizations launch funds and donation drives to assist needy students and enhance learning environments. Leading these efforts, the Presbyters Union of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana (EPCG) has officially launched a National Disaster Relief Fund. Conceived two years ago and approved by the church’s highest decision-making body, the fund is specifically designed to provide scholarships for brilliant but needy students, support vulnerable members, and offer relief to disaster victims. This initiative is primarily financed through monthly contributions from presbyters, with an initial seed capital target of GH¢20,000. The EPCG’s commitment has already yielded tangible results, including a GH¢10,000 donation to Saboba Senior High School in the Northern Region. Dr. Anthony Astu, the National President of the Union, emphasized that while the fund currently prioritizes church members and students in northern Ghana, there are long-term plans to extend this support to the broader society. Rev. Vincent Dagadu noted that the fund represents a significant milestone for the Union, succeeding where previous endowment efforts had failed. The initiative aims to create a sustainable financial backbone for educational infrastructure and student welfare that will benefit future generations. In the Eastern Region, award-winning filmmaker Big Ghun has advanced his humanitarian mission through the second edition of the "Bigg Save Project." On July 10, 2026, the project reached Makye Israel School in Odumase-Krobo, delivering vital educational resources including laptops, an Apple desktop, and various books. This outreach, which followed a previous school repainting project, was largely made possible through public contributions following an intensive social media appeal. The event saw a high turnout of celebrities and volunteers, highlighting a growing trend of using digital platforms to mobilize community resources for grassroots educational improvement. Parallel to these efforts, the Zonta Club of Accra II has ushered in a new leadership team for the 2026-2028 biennium, led by President Nana Eduwaa Appiah. The club’s renewed strategy focuses heavily on women’s empowerment through education, with plans to expand its Girls Fellowship Programme and establish new reading clubs and libraries. During the installation ceremony, advocate Dorcas Coker-Appiah stressed the importance of the Affirmative Action Act in breaking cultural barriers, while the outgoing president, Merley Wood, highlighted the club's ongoing commitment to improving the welfare of girls through structured educational advocacy. Furthermore, religious leaders in the Eastern Region are calling for more systemic changes to the educational landscape. At a recent conference, Municipal and District Chief Imams appealed to the government for the establishment of STEM and TVET schools within Muslim communities, noting that land has already been secured for such projects. They also advocated for dedicated scholarships for needy Muslim students and the inclusion of more Muslim teachers in Senior High Schools. Collectively, these diverse initiatives from the EPCG, Zonta Club, and local philanthropists underscore a critical shift toward localized, proactive solutions to Ghana’s educational challenges, emphasizing that community participation is essential for sustainable national development.

Ed Sheeran with children and young people at Muirhouse Library in Edinburgh, January 2025. Pic: Mark Surridge
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Ed Sheeran and UK Government Launch £12.5m 'Music In Libraries' Initiative to Boost Youth Education

Global music icon Ed Sheeran and the UK government have announced a transformative £12.5 million initiative titled 'Music In Libraries' to revitalise music education across England. Co-designed by the Ed Sheeran Foundation, the program aims to turn local libraries into vibrant creative hubs by providing free access to music mentorship and professional-grade resources. The initiative is funded through the government’s Dormant Assets Scheme, which repurposes funds from long-untouched bank accounts and insurance policies to support community-focused social and educational projects. Under the new scheme, more than 150 library authorities across England are eligible to apply for funding to install dedicated studio spaces and provide live performance opportunities for young people. This partnership between Sheeran’s charity and government experts seeks to dismantle barriers to entry for aspiring musicians, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds who lack access to expensive recording equipment or private tuition. By utilizing the existing infrastructure of the public library system, the program ensures that musical training becomes a community-led endeavor accessible to all. The launch follows a collaborative visit by Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy and Ed Sheeran to a youth arts organization, which underscored the critical need for equitable access to the arts. Dr. Renuka Fernando of the Ed Sheeran Foundation highlighted the initiative's potential to broaden horizons for children across the country, while Secretary Nandy emphasized a commitment to restoring music to the heart of the educational experience. The program is seen as a direct response to years of funding cuts in creative subjects, aiming to ensure that artistic talent is nurtured regardless of a child’s financial circumstances. This investment represents a significant shift in how the UK approaches grassroots music development, positioning libraries as more than just book repositories. As local authorities begin the application process to secure these grants, the 'Music In Libraries' initiative sets a new precedent for celebrity-government partnerships in the education sector. The long-term goal is to foster a more inclusive cultural landscape, providing the next generation of British talent with the tools and mentorship necessary to thrive in the modern music industry.

Prof. Felix N. Hammond, Chairman, Governing Council, Southshore University College, speaking at the congregation
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Ghanaian Education Leaders Call for Curriculum Reform, AI Readiness, and Ethical Leadership

Ghana’s education and professional landscape is undergoing a significant shift toward practical development and technological integration, as emphasized by government officials and academic leaders during a series of recent graduation and induction ceremonies. Vice-President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, have both urged tertiary institutions to align their training with national developmental needs. Speaking at the opening of the third summer school at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, the Vice-President highlighted technology as a strategic tool for quality education, while the Education Minister, during a hostel inauguration at Wisconsin International University College, called on vice-chancellors to prioritize their core missions and foster better relationships between management and governing councils. The demand for a fundamental reform in African education was further echoed at the 10th Congregation of Southshore University College. Professor Felix N. Hammond, Chairman of the Governing Council, warned that the traditional certificate-driven model is no longer sufficient in a rapidly evolving Artificial Intelligence (AI) economy. He urged universities to focus on curricula that foster innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving, noting that modern employers prioritize practical capabilities over mere academic qualifications. This sentiment was supported by Professor Bill Buenar Puplampu, who cautioned that Africa risks missing out on industrial advancements without significant investment in AI and innovation. Beyond technical skills, the importance of character and ethical leadership remained a central theme across various institutions. At the 15th graduation ceremony of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), Commandant Air Vice Marshal David Akrong emphasized that integrity is the cornerstone of effective leadership, linking many of Africa's current challenges to ethical failures. Similarly, during the 10th anniversary of British Columbia College, guest speakers called for a focus on character development and inclusivity alongside academic excellence. These events celebrated the achievements of hundreds of graduates, including 162 from KAIPTC and 82 from Southshore, all tasked with leading with integrity in their respective fields. Professional sectors are also aligning with this developmental drive, as seen in the induction of 194 new members into the Chartered Institute of Supply Chain Management (CISCM). Patience Baffoe-Bonnie, Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service, urged supply chain professionals to see their roles as central to institutional growth and national stability. As Ghana prepares to host the IFPSM World Summit, the collective message from these various ceremonies is clear: the future of the nation depends on a workforce that is not only technologically proficient and practically skilled but also deeply committed to ethical standards and national service.

GES Temporarily Closes Yendi Schools to Honor Late Dagbon Overlord Yaa-Naa Abukari II
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GES Temporarily Closes Yendi Schools to Honor Late Dagbon Overlord Yaa-Naa Abukari II

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially mandated the temporary closure of all public and private schools within the Yendi Municipality. This directive, which took effect from midday on July 13 and runs through July 16, 2023, was issued to allow students, teachers, and staff to participate in and observe the funeral rites of the late Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, Ndan Yaa-Naa Abukari II. The move highlights the significant intersection of formal education and the deep-seated cultural traditions of the Northern Region, ensuring the academic community can pay their respects to the revered traditional leader. The decision to halt academic activities was reached following extensive consultations between the GES, local government officials, and the leadership at the Gbewaa Palace. By aligning the school calendar with these traditional rites, authorities aim to uphold the cultural heritage of the Dagbon people and show formal respect for the late King. The GES has urged all members of the school community to observe the mourning period with the appropriate solemnity, reflecting the central role the Overlord plays in the social and cultural fabric of the municipality. As part of the funeral proceedings, the Dagbon Traditional Council has scheduled a major Islamic prayer session for the late King. This event will take place at the Gbewaa Palace on Sunday, July 16, at 10:00 a.m. The council has invited the general public, including students and educators, to participate in the prayers. This spiritual gathering serves as the final major event of the mourning period before the municipality transitions back to its regular schedule. Following the conclusion of the funeral rites and the scheduled prayers, full academic activities are set to resume on Monday, July 17, 2023. All students and educational staff are expected to return to their respective institutions to continue the academic term. While the temporary pause interrupted the school week, local officials emphasize that such measures are vital for maintaining harmony between state institutions and traditional leadership, reinforcing the communal values that define the Dagbon Kingdom.

Upper East Regional Hospital Warns National Service Personnel Over Mobile Phone Use and Professional Conduct
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Upper East Regional Hospital Warns National Service Personnel Over Mobile Phone Use and Professional Conduct

Management of the Upper East Regional Hospital has issued a stern warning to 204 newly posted National Service personnel regarding the use of mobile phones while on duty. During an orientation session aimed at preparing the intake for their clinical roles, officials emphasized that strict adherence to professional standards is non-negotiable. The directive specifically targets unauthorized phone usage within hospital wards, a practice the facility management aims to eliminate to ensure patient safety and focused healthcare delivery during the service year. Assistant Training Coordinator, Mr. Roger Tandanbil, articulated the hospital's policy, noting that any service personnel found using a mobile phone during duty hours without prior supervisor permission would face immediate confiscation of the device. Crucially, the management stated that any confiscated phones would only be returned at the end of the personnel's service year. This measure is part of a broader effort to instill discipline among the cohort, which includes nurses and midwives, as they transition from academic environments to the high-stakes practical demands of clinical training. Beyond digital distractions, the orientation addressed other critical aspects of professional ethics and health safety. Mr. Tandanbil cautioned the personnel against the common practice of wearing hospital uniforms or scrubs in public areas, stressing that professional attire should be restricted to the facility's premises. He urged the recruits to maintain humility and a willingness to learn from their supervisors, highlighting the service period as a vital opportunity to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and hands-on medical practice. The orientation was reportedly well-received by the personnel, many of whom expressed confidence that the guidance would help them enhance their clinical skills. By setting clear expectations from the outset, the Upper East Regional Hospital management aims to foster an environment of excellence and professionalism. This proactive approach underscores the hospital's commitment to maintaining high standards of care while training the next generation of Ghanaian healthcare professionals through the National Service Scheme.

Ghana Accelerates STEM and Digital Literacy Drive Through High-Level Partnerships and Youth Innovations
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Ghana Accelerates STEM and Digital Literacy Drive Through High-Level Partnerships and Youth Innovations

Ghana is significantly intensifying its efforts to bridge the gap between literacy and numeracy while equipping the next generation with advanced digital skills. At the recent fifth National Abacus Competition, organized by Brainest EduCare Limited and World Access, over 2,000 pupils demonstrated exceptional mental arithmetic and robotics skills. However, the event also served as a platform for Ministry of Education official Mr. Isaac Atta Baah to highlight a critical disparity: while literacy programs have historically received substantial support, numeracy education requires urgent, equal investment to secure the nation’s future in science and technology. Interestingly, the competition saw a dominance of female awardees among the 500 recognized participants, prompting calls for balanced educational interventions to ensure boys are not left behind in these critical fields. Parallel to these foundational efforts, the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) has entered a strategic partnership with Ghana Digital Centres Limited (GDCL) to provide high-level technical training for 2,000 young Ghanaians. This initiative, fully funded by the government, focuses on high-demand sectors including Artificial Intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data analytics. Participants will work toward Microsoft-certified microdegrees, which are recognized globally, with Ghana notably securing 2,000 of the 3,000 slots allocated for the entire African continent. To ensure the sustainability of this program, the partnership includes 600 paid internships, allowing graduates to gain vital industry experience across five initial regions before a planned nationwide rollout. Innovation and creative problem-solving are also being championed through the 2026 Ghana Science and Technology Explorer Prize (GSTEP) program. During the GSTEP Exhibition and Awards at the University of Ghana, Deputy Minister for Education Dr. Clement Abas Apaak emphasized that the future of the nation relies on the resilience and curiosity of its young innovators. This sentiment was echoed at the graduation of 20 young leaders from the GSTEP Youth Steering Group, who completed intensive training in leadership and STEM advocacy. Furthermore, the 2026 Literacy Challenge has extended its entry deadline to July 30, inviting youth aged 11 to 15 to write to the Minister of Education about the pros and cons of AI in the classroom, further embedding digital literacy into the national academic discourse. Community-level support is bolstering these national initiatives, as seen in recent corporate social responsibility efforts. OmniBSIC Bank, in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Accra-Cantonment East, recently donated 20 computers and a "Teacher in a Box" digital learning station to the Prince of Peace International School in Accra. These localized investments in coding and robotics infrastructure complement the broader government-led strategies. Collectively, these developments represent a holistic approach to education in Ghana—one that blends traditional numeracy and literacy with the cutting-edge technological competencies required for the global digital economy.

Ministry of Education Launches 'Teachers for All' Report Highlighting Severe Rural Staffing Shortages and Learning Gaps
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Ministry of Education Launches 'Teachers for All' Report Highlighting Severe Rural Staffing Shortages and Learning Gaps

The Ministry of Education, in partnership with UNICEF and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, has released the 'Teachers for All' (T4A) report, revealing a stark paradox in Ghana's education system. While school enrollment has reached near-universal levels—peaking at 99.6% for primary schools and 98.4% for junior high schools during the 2022/23 academic year—severe teacher deployment inequalities are crippling learning outcomes. The report indicates that approximately one in five districts currently faces critical staffing shortages, predominantly in rural areas, which undermines the significant progress made in student accessibility across the country. These staffing gaps are identified as a primary driver of the national decline in educational quality. Detailed findings in the report show that the lack of equitable teacher distribution has directly impacted foundational learning. Over 45% of students currently lack basic proficiency in Mathematics, while more than 50% fail to meet proficiency standards in English. These poor outcomes are most pronounced in regions where pupil-teacher ratios far exceed the national target of 35:1. For instance, the North-East Region reported a ratio of 48:1, creating overcrowded classrooms that prevent effective instruction. The data suggests that while children are physically in school, the absence of qualified educators in underserved districts is stalling their academic development. To address these systemic disparities, the T4A report advocates for a transition toward evidence-based, data-driven teacher deployment strategies. Key recommendations include the introduction of robust incentive packages designed to attract and retain educators in remote communities, with a specific focus on supporting female teachers who often face unique safety and logistical challenges in rural postings. The report emphasizes that refining teacher allocation is not only a matter of social equity but also a fiscal necessity; optimizing distribution is essential to ensure that the government's significant budget investments in education translate into tangible improvements in literacy and numeracy. The Ghanaian government's commitment to implementing these reforms will be a crucial factor in bridging the rural-urban divide in educational quality. By moving beyond enrollment statistics and focusing on the quality of teacher-student engagement, the Ministry aims to ensure that every child, regardless of their geographical location, has access to the qualified instruction necessary for success. This shift toward equitable deployment is viewed as a vital step in securing the country's long-term human capital and economic development.

Prof. Ernest Kofi Davis — Director-General of the Ghana Education Service
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GES Sets July 20 for 2026 BECE School Selection as Senior High School Reforms Accelerate Nationwide

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially scheduled the school selection process for the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates to run from July 20 to August 7, 2026. This year’s exercise involves 620,141 candidates who participated in the examinations held earlier in May. In a significant shift from previous protocols, candidates will now have the opportunity to assess their academic performance before making their selections. The updated guidelines require students to choose eight senior high schools, including two from Category 'A'—specifically one boarding and one day school. To ensure a seamless process, GES has mandated regional directors to facilitate training for education officials on these new selection guidelines between July 15 and July 29, 2026. While candidates prepare for placement, the senior high school landscape is undergoing structural changes, particularly in the Ashanti Region. Approximately 59 schools in the region have successfully transitioned from the double-track system to a single-track model. According to Mr. Henry Osei Boateng, the GES Ashanti Regional Public Relations Officer, the remaining schools have adopted a transitional system where entire year groups can remain on campus simultaneously. Although the government aims to phasedly retire the double-track model, the full adoption of the single-track system nationwide remains contingent on addressing existing infrastructure and furniture deficits. Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene has already requested immediate data on these deficits to expedite the necessary interventions. Beyond infrastructure, the GES is also focusing on enhancing the curriculum and student welfare. The service recently launched the National Entrepreneurship Programme for Senior High Schools (NEP-SHS) in collaboration with Procus Ghana Limited. Aimed at curbing youth unemployment, the initiative is being piloted at Achimota School, Wesley Grammar School, and the Accra STEM School. Deputy Director-General Prof. Smile Dzisi emphasized that the program will equip students with enterprise development and innovation skills through a structured 10-month module, concluding in a business pitch competition designed to foster self-reliance among graduates. Parallel to these academic reforms, efforts to safeguard student well-being are intensifying. The Volta Regional Command of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) recently conducted a capacity-building seminar for Guidance and Counselling Coordinators across various second-cycle institutions. This initiative, marking the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, seeks to empower school counsellors with the skills necessary to detect and address substance abuse. Regional Commander SNCO Worlanyo K. Fianu stressed the vital role of preventive education in maintaining a conducive learning environment, ensuring that as schools expand their academic and entrepreneurial offerings, student health and safety remain a top priority.

A section of the Imams and their deputies at the conference
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Ghana Education Service and Partners Launch Major Initiatives to Boost Entrepreneurship, School Safety, and Professional Excellence

In a concerted effort to reshape the landscape of Ghanaian education and professional development, the Ghana Education Service (GES) and several national stakeholders have launched new initiatives aimed at fostering self-reliance and enhancing student welfare. Central to these developments is the introduction of the National Entrepreneurship Programme for Senior High Schools (NEP-SHS), a collaboration between GES and Procus Ghana Limited. The program, which is being piloted at Achimota School, Wesley Grammar School, and Accra STEM School, aims to equip students with critical entrepreneurial skills and innovation modules over a 10-month period. Deputy Director-General Prof. Smile Dzisi emphasized that this initiative is a strategic response to high youth unemployment, designed to cultivate a generation of job creators rather than job seekers. Parallel to these academic enhancements, efforts are being intensified to safeguard the health and future of students. The Volta Regional Command of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) recently organized a capacity-building seminar for Guidance and Counselling Coordinators from Senior High, Technical, and Vocational schools. This initiative, marking the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, empowers educators to detect and address substance abuse within the school environment. Regional Commander SNCO Worlanyo K. Fianu highlighted that equipping counsellors with preventive education tools is vital for creating a safe learning atmosphere conducive to the personal growth of the youth. The push for educational and professional advancement extends into specialized sectors and religious leadership. The Chartered Institute of Supply Chain Management (CISCM) recently inducted 194 new members, including fellows and subject matter experts, at a ceremony in Accra where Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service, Patience Baffoe-Bonnie, urged professionals to view their roles as catalysts for national development. Simultaneously, Municipal and District Chief Imams in the Eastern Region have appealed to the government for leadership training, the establishment of STEM and TVET schools in Muslim communities, and the inclusion of dedicated Muslim teachers in Senior High Schools to ensure equitable access to modern education and scholarship opportunities for needy students. Complementing these structural and academic changes, the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) is set to launch 'The 5-Minute Statistical Series' on July 15, 2026. This publication is designed to demystify complex national data, making official statistics accessible to the everyday reader and ensuring that students and professionals alike can make data-driven decisions. Together, these multi-sectoral efforts signify a holistic approach to Ghanaian education, blending technical skills, professional integrity, and public health awareness to prepare the nation's youth for the challenges of a modern economy.

Prof. Felix N. Hammond, Chairman, Governing Council, Southshore University College, speaking at the congregation
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Ghana’s Education Sector Urged to Align with Technological Trends and National Development Goals

Government officials and educational leaders across Ghana are calling for a fundamental shift in the country’s academic landscape, advocating for a transition from traditional certificate-driven learning to a model rooted in technology and practical skills. Vice-President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, speaking at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), emphasized that technology is a strategic tool essential for safeguarding the quality of education. She noted that the nation's future depends on the innovation and character of its graduates. Similarly, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, during the inauguration of a new 200-bed hostel at Wisconsin International University College, urged vice-chancellors to tailor academic training to meet the specific developmental needs of the country, ensuring that tertiary missions foster national growth. This call for reform is echoed by academic experts who warn that Africa must adapt to the burgeoning Artificial Intelligence (AI) economy. Professor Felix N. Hammond, Chairman of the Governing Council of Southshore University College, argued during the school's 10th congregation that employers now prioritize practical capabilities over mere academic qualifications. He encouraged universities to reform curricula to foster critical thinking and problem-solving. This sentiment was supported at the 15th graduation ceremony of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), where Commandant Air Vice Marshal David Akrong reminded 162 graduates that integrity and ethical leadership are as vital as academic success in addressing the continent’s challenges. Institutional milestones across the country also highlighted the growing emphasis on infrastructure and community support. Adaklu Senior High School (ADASEC) celebrated its first speech and prize-giving day in its 42-year history, using the occasion to launch a GH"400,000 alumni-supported underground water reservoir project. In Accra, British Columbia College marked its 10th anniversary by graduating 42 students under a Canadian-based curriculum, while the Zonta Club of Accra II installed new leadership committed to expanding educational opportunities for women and girls through its Girls Fellowship Programme and new library initiatives. Despite these advancements, experts suggest that the path to success for today’s youth remains complex due to intense societal and financial pressures. Writer Isaac Game Mawulorm highlighted the mental health toll of social media and the rush for financial stability, urging students to focus on personal growth and skills training. This need for a balanced approach to education was exemplified by international footballer N'Golo Kanté, who recently shared how he secured a diploma in accounting as a backup plan before his professional sports career took off. Together, these developments signal a national consensus: for Ghanaian education to remain relevant, it must combine rigorous infrastructure, technological fluency, and a focus on character-led, practical expertise.

Deputy Education Minister Dr. Clement Apaak Urges Increased Investment in Young Innovators at 2026 GSTEP Awards
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Deputy Education Minister Dr. Clement Apaak Urges Increased Investment in Young Innovators at 2026 GSTEP Awards

Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, has made a passionate plea for enhanced investment in Ghana's young innovators, describing their potential as the bedrock of the nation’s future development. Speaking at the 2026 Ghana Science and Technology Explorer Prize (GSTEP) Exhibition and Awards held at the University of Ghana, Dr. Apaak underscored the government’s commitment to transforming the educational landscape through Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). He emphasized that the growth of the nation depends on the ability of the youth to harness innovation to solve pressing national and global challenges. He highlighted the importance of providing opportunities, mentorship, and resources to ensure Ghanaian students can compete on a global stage. During the event, the Deputy Minister detailed the Ministry of Education's strategic focus on integrating advanced technologies into the national curriculum, specifically naming coding, robotics, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) as critical components. By providing students with the necessary tools, the Ministry aims to foster a culture of creativity and practical problem-solving. Dr. Apaak urged students to remain curious and resilient, noting that their ideas are essential for driving Ghana's economic and social progress. He further called on both the government and the private sector to collaborate more closely in providing the infrastructure and financial support needed to scale youth-led innovations from the classroom to the real world. Complementing the awards ceremony, a significant milestone was reached as twenty young leaders graduated from the GSTEP Youth Steering Group at the Aknac Hotel. These graduates, representing various regions across Ghana, completed intensive training in leadership, communication, and STEM advocacy. The ceremony, attended by families and facilitators, celebrated the personal growth and confidence of the participants. These graduates are now set to serve as ambassadors for STEM education within their respective communities, acting as change-makers who will encourage their peers to embrace scientific inquiry and technological development. The dual celebrations of the GSTEP Awards and the Youth Steering Group graduation signal a robust momentum for STEM education in Ghana. As these young innovators and leaders step into their roles, the call for sustained investment remains paramount to ensure their projects transition into viable solutions for national development. Dr. Apaak concluded by reiterating that the journey for these students is only just beginning, with the Ministry of Education dedicated to ensuring that every young Ghanaian has the opportunity to contribute to the nation’s technological advancement and long-term prosperity.

Prof. Ernest Kofi Davis — Director-General of the Ghana Education Service
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GES Announces July 20 Start for 2026 BECE School Selection Amid Major SHS System Reforms

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially scheduled the school selection period for candidates of the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) to run from July 20 to August 7, 2026. This announcement follows the successful completion of the examination, which took place from May 4 to May 11, 2026, and saw the participation of 620,141 candidates across the country. To ensure a smooth process, regional directors of education will undergo a specialized training exercise on the 2026 selection guidelines from July 15 to July 29, 2026. The GES has offered strong assurances that all qualified candidates will be successfully placed in second-cycle institutions, aiming to dispel public concerns regarding student placement bottlenecks. This year's selection process introduces significant changes designed to give students more flexibility and better outcomes. Under the new guidelines, candidates will select a total of eight senior high schools, an increase from the previous requirement of seven. Notably, students are now required to choose two Category 'A' schools—one of which must be a boarding option and the other a day school. In a departure from previous years, the 2026 cycle allows candidates to assess their own academic performance before making their final school selections, a move intended to help students make more realistic choices based on their examination results. Parallel to the placement preparations, the Ghana Education Service is making significant strides in reforming the Senior High School (SHS) calendar. In the Ashanti Region, 59 schools have successfully transitioned from the double-track system to a single-track model. Mr. Henry Osei Boateng, the Ashanti Regional Public Relations Officer for the GES, explained that remaining schools in the region have moved to a transitional system. This transitional approach differs from the original double-track model by allowing entire year groups to remain on campus simultaneously, rather than being divided into separate tracks that rotate throughout the year. The complete phase-out of the double-track system remains a priority for the government, though it is contingent on addressing critical infrastructure and furniture deficits. The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has requested an immediate audit of existing resource gaps to expedite the transition to a unified single-track system across all schools. As the nation prepares for the 2026 placement cycle, these structural improvements are expected to provide a more stable and predictable environment for the hundreds of thousands of students entering the secondary education tier.