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.

Charles Akwasi Asiedu (left), Tano South MP, presenting a citation and education support packages to Benjamin Ayitey Ajavon, Overall best BECE graduate in the municipality
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Tano South MP Charles Akwasi Asiedu Equips 300 SHS Students with Essential Supplies

The Member of Parliament for Tano South, Charles Akwasi Asiedu, has provided comprehensive educational support to 300 high-performing Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) graduates as they transition to Senior High School (SHS). The initiative is designed to alleviate the financial burden on families in rural areas, ensuring that students from the municipality are well-equipped to pursue their academic goals regardless of their economic background. By targeting top-performing students, the MP aims to sustain the recent improvements in BECE results observed within the municipality. The support package distributed by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) legislator included essential boarding items such as mattresses, chop boxes, scientific calculators, and exercise books. Beyond the physical supplies, Mr. Asiedu also provided financial assistance in the form of a transport allowance to assist students in reaching their respective schools. This intervention addresses a critical gap for parents who often struggle with the significant upfront costs associated with the commencement of secondary education, which can sometimes delay or prevent enrollment. A significant highlight of the presentation was the special recognition of 16 female students who achieved single-digit aggregates in their BECE results. These students received additional attention to encourage continued excellence in STEM and other academic fields. The initiative received praise from various officials, including Regional Minister Charity Gardiner and the Municipal Chief Executive, who both noted the MP's focus on education as a vital pillar for national development. Local educators added that such gestures serve as a powerful motivating factor for younger students currently preparing for their own examinations. For the beneficiaries, the support represents a vital lifeline. Students expressed their gratitude and a firm commitment to excel in their studies, acknowledging that the relief provided to their parents allows them to focus entirely on their coursework. Mr. Asiedu reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and community development through education, emphasizing that investing in the youth of Tano South is the most effective way to ensure long-term prosperity for the constituency.

French Father Jailed for Six Months After Threatening to Behead Son’s Teacher in Le Fauga
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French Father Jailed for Six Months After Threatening to Behead Son’s Teacher in Le Fauga

A 47-year-old man in France has been sentenced to six months in prison after threatening to behead a primary school teacher who had disciplined his son. The incident took place in the village of Le Fauga, located near Toulouse, and was triggered when the female teacher called the parent to discuss the child's disruptive behavior. The swift judicial response underscores the French government's zero-tolerance policy toward threats against educators, a stance that has intensified since the tragic 2020 murder of teacher Samuel Paty. Following the threat, the teacher was placed on official protection and has since gone on sick leave. During the legal proceedings, the presiding judge described the man's remarks as deeply disturbing, noting that the nature of the threat required a serious judicial intervention. Although the defendant reportedly apologized for his actions during the hearing, the court determined that the severity of the intimidation warranted immediate incarceration to uphold the safety of public servants. French Education Minister Edouard Geffray commented on the case, emphasizing that no teacher should ever fear for their life or safety while performing their duties. Geffray noted that this sentencing represents one of the first applications of a new law specifically designed to protect educational staff from harassment and external threats. He further argued that such attacks do more than target individuals; they undermine the very institution of education and the values of the French Republic. Beyond the six-month jail sentence, the court has ordered the man to attend a mandatory citizenship course and prohibited him from having any contact with the teacher or entering the school premises. Additionally, authorities have indicated that the man's children may be transferred to a different school to ensure a safe environment for both the staff and the students. This case serves as a high-profile example of France's commitment to enforcing legal protections for those on the front lines of the national education system.

Ghana Education Service to Roll Out EduPack Initiative to Combat Bedbug Infestations in Senior High Schools
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Ghana Education Service to Roll Out EduPack Initiative to Combat Bedbug Infestations in Senior High Schools

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has announced a new initiative titled "EduPack," designed to standardize student belongings and tackle the persistent issue of bedbug infestations within the nation's boarding schools. The program will be implemented across all Senior High Schools (SHS) and Senior High Technical Schools (SHTS). By providing these specialized packages, the GES aims to significantly limit the volume of personal items students bring from home, which are often identified as primary vectors for pests in dormitory environments. The distribution phase of the EduPack project is scheduled to commence on August 1, 2026, and will continue through September 10, 2026. The GES has contracted Prospectus Ghana Ltd. to manage the logistics and delivery of the packages to the various educational institutions. This period is expected to be a critical window for school administrators as they prepare to integrate the new system into their standard registration and boarding protocols ahead of the academic term. To ensure a seamless rollout, the GES has issued formal instructions to all Regional Directors of Education. These officials are tasked with sensitizing school heads and ensuring that each institution is adequately prepared to receive and distribute the packages. The Service emphasized the need for full cooperation between school authorities and the staff of Prospectus Ghana Ltd. during the month-long distribution window to avoid delays or logistical bottlenecks. This move represents a strategic effort by the education service to improve hygiene standards and living conditions for students. Bedbug infestations have long been a challenge for Ghanaian boarding schools, often leading to discomfort and disruptions in student learning. By controlling the materials entering the dormitories through the EduPack system, the GES hopes to create a more sanitary and conducive environment for academic excellence. For further information or clarification, the GES has provided dedicated contact lines for school heads and relevant stakeholders.

The PRESEC contestants receiving the trophy from Prof. Elsie Effah Kaufmann. Picture: ERNEST KODZI
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Presbyterian Boys Senior High School Clinches Historic Ninth NSMQ Title in Thrilling Accra Finale

Presbyterian Boys Senior High School (PRESEC), Legon, has further cemented its status as Ghana's premier science and mathematics institution by winning its ninth National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) title. In a highly anticipated grand finale held in Accra on October 16, 2026, the Legon-based school amassed 40 points to overcome stiff competition from Accra Academy and St. Augustine’s College. The victory, celebrated under the banner of "The Gr8t ADO9," marks a significant milestone in the school’s storied history in the competition, reaffirming its dominance in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. This win also marks the school's 13th appearance in the grand finale, more than any other institution in the contest's history. The road to the title was an intense intellectual battle that initially saw the three finalists neck-and-neck. Accra Academy finished as the first runner-up with a respectable 33 points, while St. Augustine’s College secured third place with 27 points. Throughout the finale, PRESEC demonstrated exceptional composure, particularly in the later rounds where they successfully pulled ahead of their rivals. This year’s tournament was notably expansive, featuring 174 schools from across the country, making PRESEC’s path to the trophy a testament to their rigorous academic preparation and consistent excellence in the face of growing national competition. Beyond the trophy and accolades, the 2026 NSMQ highlighted the growing importance of critical thinking and problem-solving skills within the Ghanaian educational system. Observers noted that the competition aligns with the national educational goals pursued under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration, which has prioritized STEM initiatives to prepare students for a rapidly evolving global economy. The event served not only as a showcase of intellectual prowess but also as an inspiration for students nationwide to pursue careers in scientific fields, ensuring that the legacy of academic excellence continues to thrive in Ghana's secondary schools.

Polina Kvitnykh (2nd from left), Head of the Russian House of the Center for Public Diplomacy in Ghana, with Koma Steem Jehu Appiah (right), Ambassador of Ghana to Russia
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Ghana and Russia Strengthen Educational and Cultural Ties at Technoprom-2026 Forum

Ghana and Russia have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations through enhanced cooperation in the fields of education and culture. This renewed partnership was recently highlighted during the Technoprom-2026 forum held in Russia, where officials from both nations discussed strategies to equip Ghanaian graduates with the technical expertise and vocational skills necessary to drive national economic transformation. The discussions underscored a shared vision of using education as a catalyst for industrial and social development. Ghana’s Ambassador to Russia played a central role in the forum, emphasizing that the primary objective of these educational ties is to ensure students acquire practical skills that align with the current needs of the Ghanaian economy. A key theme of the discussions was the "Russia-Africa" educational cooperation model, which seeks to create a sustainable pipeline of knowledge exchange. Central to this strategy are initiatives designed to facilitate the return of expertise to home countries, ensuring that graduates utilize their international training to contribute directly to local development projects in Ghana. The Center for Public Diplomacy also highlighted its expanding footprint across the African continent, focusing specifically on preparing students for the rigors of the Russian higher education system. Key initiatives include the implementation of specialized linguistic and preparatory programs that bridge the academic and cultural gaps for African students entering Russian universities. The Novosibirsk region, recognized for its significant scientific and research potential, was identified as a critical hub for these future projects, offering a sophisticated environment for advanced technical and scientific training. Looking ahead, participation in these joint educational programs and linguistic initiatives is expected to see a significant increase by 2026. By fostering a deeper understanding of both Russian and Ghanaian cultures and scientific methodologies, both nations aim to build a robust framework for long-term intellectual and economic collaboration. This partnership marks a strategic step in Ghana's broader efforts to diversify its international educational alliances and bolster its human capital through global expertise and technological exchange.

GCB Bank PLC Employees Transform Oblogo M/A Basic School Nursery Block Through Community Impact Initiative
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GCB Bank PLC Employees Transform Oblogo M/A Basic School Nursery Block Through Community Impact Initiative

Employees from GCB Bank PLC's People and Culture Department have completed a comprehensive refurbishment of the nursery block at Oblogo M/A Basic School, significantly upgrading the facility for its youngest pupils. This initiative was designed to create a more conducive and stimulating learning environment, addressing critical infrastructure needs that had previously hindered the school's educational delivery. The project involved direct employee participation, reflecting the bank's commitment to hands-on corporate social responsibility that directly benefits local communities. The renovation work included extensive repairs to damaged flooring, the repainting of all walls, and the provision of modern furniture and fixtures specifically suited for nursery-aged children. By focusing on these essential physical improvements, the GCB staff have ensured that the foundational years of education for children in the Oblogo community are conducted in a safe and revitalized setting. This move beyond traditional financial donations allows bank personnel to contribute their skills and resources toward tangible community development outcomes. This project marks the thirteenth milestone under the bank's '2026 Staff Community Impact Programme,' an ambitious corporate roadmap that aims to undertake 95 community projects across the country. The overarching goal of the program is to positively impact the lives of one million Ghanaians by the year 2026. By decentralizing these projects to various departments, the bank ensures a wide range of community needs are met, from health and sanitation to foundational education infrastructure. As GCB Bank continues its nationwide rollout of these impact projects, the successful intervention at Oblogo M/A Basic School serves as a model for how corporate institutions can support the national educational framework. By prioritizing the improvement of basic school facilities, the bank is playing a vital role in bridging infrastructure gaps and supporting the long-term development of future generations. Such private-sector initiatives remain a crucial component of Ghana's broader strategy to enhance educational access and quality for all citizens.

Salem Kalmoni, President of Baraka Policy Institute, and CEO of Japan Motors and Group, addressing the forum. Picture: ELVIS NII NOI DOWUONA
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Prof. John Azumah and GES Officials Call for National Policy on Device Usage to Tackle School Indiscipline

The Baraka Policy Institute’s 12th Annual Public Lecture has brought to light the growing concern over student indiscipline in Ghanaian schools, identifying social media and digital devices as primary catalysts for behavioral issues. Presenting findings from a study of 240 schools, Prof. John Azumah emphasized that the current state of discipline is undermined by the pervasive influence of technology and the weak enforcement of school regulations. The report identifies stealing, chronic absenteeism, and a lack of respect for authority as the most significant challenges currently facing the educational system. Prof. Azumah argued that simply banning digital devices is an insufficient solution to the problem. Instead, he advocated for the implementation of a comprehensive national policy designed to teach students responsible digital citizenship and ethical usage. The study suggests that while technology offers educational benefits, its unregulated presence in schools often leads to distractions and moral lapses. To address these systemic issues, the lecture highlighted the need for more effective disciplinary measures and better-trained chaplains who can provide moral guidance and character development within the school environment. Responding to the findings, the Ghana Education Service (GES) underscored the importance of institutional oversight. The Deputy Director-General of GES noted that school boards must be adequately trained to handle disciplinary matters independently and decisively. This sentiment was echoed by Hajia Katumi Natogmah Attah, also representing the GES, who expressed the service’s readiness to support new interventions aimed at character formation. The consensus among stakeholders at the lecture was that a multi-faceted approach—combining policy reform, teacher training, and active parental involvement—is essential to restoring order and fostering a conducive learning environment for Ghanaian students.

Dr. John Jinapor Partners with Academia on Green Energy as Obuasi SecTech Closure and Jirapa Educational Support Take Center Stage
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Dr. John Jinapor Partners with Academia on Green Energy as Obuasi SecTech Closure and Jirapa Educational Support Take Center Stage

Ghana's education and energy sectors are witnessing a pivotal intersection as the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, initiated high-level discussions with Vice Chancellors from various public universities. The engagement, held on September 8, 2026, focused on strengthening the bridge between academia and industry to accelerate the nation's green transition. Minister Jinapor emphasized that research and innovation from the university level are critical pillars for achieving sustainable economic transformation and advancing Ghana's renewable energy goals. This move signals a strategic shift toward utilizing home-grown expertise to solve the country’s long-term energy challenges. While high-level policy discussions continue at the university level, local leaders are taking direct action to support students entering the second cycle of education. In the Jirapa municipality, Member of Parliament Cletus Seidu Dapilah has distributed essential Senior High School (SHS) prospectus items to 1,196 fresh graduates. Drawing from his professional background as a teacher, the MP provided trunks, mattresses, buckets, and learning materials to alleviate the financial burden on families. Local leaders praised the initiative, noting that such support is vital in preventing students from engaging in hazardous activities to fund their education and ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder academic aspirations. However, the start of the academic year is fraught with uncertainty for many in the Ashanti Region as Obuasi Senior High Technical School remains closed following disturbances in August 2026. The Ghana Education Service (GES) shuttered the institution following serious allegations against the headmaster, Abdulai Zakaria, involving claims of inappropriate conduct and a disturbing incident on campus. This closure has left hundreds of newly placed students in limbo, with the official reporting window of September 18 to 20 approaching rapidly. The Adansi concerned citizens group has since petitioned the Ministry of Education for an immediate reopening, arguing that the academic future of innocent students should not be compromised while investigations into the leadership continue. These developments highlight the multi-faceted challenges and opportunities within the Ghanaian education landscape under President John Mahama’s administration. From the visionary integration of green energy research in higher education to the grassroots efforts of MPs to support vulnerable students, the sector remains a primary focus for national development. Nevertheless, the situation at Obuasi SecTech serves as a stark reminder of the administrative and disciplinary hurdles that can disrupt educational access. As the Ministry of Education and the GES navigate these institutional crises, the focus remains on ensuring that academic schedules and student safety are maintained across the country.

Emmanuel Kwadwo Agyekum, Minister of Labour, Employment and Job Creation, speaking at the congregation ceremony
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Valley View University Graduates 1,156 as British Council Opens Alumni Awards and CSIR-WRI Sets 2030 Excellence Goals

Ghana's academic and research sectors are witnessing a period of transition and celebration, marked by the graduation of over a thousand students at Valley View University and the announcement of the 13th annual Study UK Alumni Awards. However, this period of growth is also met with solemnity following the passing of Emeritus Professor John Bright Kobla Aheto, a distinguished academic and patriarch whose legacy has left an indelible mark on the nation's educational landscape. Prof. Aheto passed away at the age of 80 on April 27, 2026, with a private interment planned for his home in Tsiame. In a significant milestone for private tertiary education, Valley View University held its 34th graduation ceremony on August 30, where 1,156 students from three campuses were conferred with degrees. Addressing the graduates, the Minister for Labour, Emmanuel Kwadwo Agyekum, emphasized that career progression hinges on competence and character rather than academic certificates alone. He challenged the new alumni to lead with integrity and excellence in their respective fields. To meet evolving global demands, the university's Vice-Chancellor also announced the upcoming introduction of specialized programs in Law and Cybersecurity, while Bright Preprah Yeboah was recognized as the Overall Best Graduating Student. Furthering the spirit of academic achievement, the British Council has launched the thirteenth year of the Study UK Alumni Awards. These awards seek to celebrate the global impact of individuals who have studied in the United Kingdom, focusing on categories such as Business and Innovation, Culture, and Science. Applications for the current cycle are open from September 1 to October 15, 2026, providing a platform for Ghanaian alumni to follow in the footsteps of previous winners like King Adawu Wellington and Adaku Ufere-Awoonor. These accolades not only enhance the international profiles of the winners but also facilitate stronger ties between Ghanaian scholars and UK-based institutions. Parallel to these academic celebrations, leadership in Ghana's scientific research sector is being bolstered to address national challenges. Dr. Emmanuel Obuobie has taken the helm as the Director of the CSIR-Water Research Institute, with a vision to transform the entity into a global center of excellence by 2030. His strategic roadmap focuses on research excellence, financial sustainability, and investment in human capital. By linking hydrology and climate research directly to community benefits and policy-making, the institute aims to tackle Ghana’s water security issues head-on. Together, these developments—from the graduation of new professionals to the recognition of seasoned alumni and the strategic leadership of research bodies—highlight a robust commitment to human capital development and innovation in Ghana.

Greater Accra Schools Launch SCAWS Waste Initiative as ATU Introduces Trichology HND
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Greater Accra Schools Launch SCAWS Waste Initiative as ATU Introduces Trichology HND

On September 7, 2026, coinciding with the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, six Senior High Schools in the Greater Accra Region officially launched the Schools for Clean Air and Waste Segregation (SCAWS) project. This environmental initiative, led by Impact Footprints Africa (IFA) and supported by the Clean Air Fund in partnership with the Ghana Education Service (GES), seeks to transform waste management within the secondary education sector. The pilot program focuses on introducing robust waste segregation systems, expanding composting efforts, and eliminating the hazardous practice of open waste burning, which frequently plagues school environments. The participating institutions include Achimota School—where the project was inaugurated—alongside Accra Academy, Wesley Grammar School, St. John’s Grammar School, St. Mary’s Secondary School, and Westfield Bridge College. By engaging students, faculty, and school management, the project aims to foster a deep-rooted culture of environmental responsibility. Beyond immediate sanitation improvements, the GES and its partners intend to use the insights gathered from these six schools to develop a replicable model for nationwide implementation, addressing the growing challenge of plastic and organic waste management in Ghana’s educational institutions. In a separate development aimed at advancing technical and vocational training, Accra Technical University (ATU) has partnered with Abrantie College to launch a groundbreaking Higher National Diploma (HND) in Paramedical Trichology. This three-year program is the first of its kind in the country, designed to merge traditional cosmetology with medical trichology to address scalp and hair health. Deputy Minister of Education, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, highlighted the initiative as a significant milestone for national transformation, providing a formal educational pathway for over 8,000 beauty practitioners who previously lacked access to higher tertiary qualifications. These dual developments reflect a broader shift in the Ghanaian education landscape toward practical, specialized training and sustainable campus management. While the SCAWS project prepares students to be environmental stewards, the ATU trichology program professionalizes an essential service sector, positioning Ghana as a regional hub for advanced technical training. Both initiatives highlight the commitment of academic institutions to aligning education with modern market demands and global environmental standards, ensuring that the next generation of graduates is both ecologically conscious and professionally skilled.

Minister Lartey and Local Leaders Call for Social Reform to Protect Children's Education Across Ghana
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Minister Lartey and Local Leaders Call for Social Reform to Protect Children's Education Across Ghana

Ghanaian government officials and local representatives have intensified calls for social and cultural reforms to safeguard the educational future of children, addressing challenges ranging from domestic gender imbalances to the lure of illegal mining. During a series of community dialogues and 'My First Day at School' initiatives, leaders emphasized that traditional norms and economic pressures are increasingly hindering student retention and academic performance. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, led these efforts by advocating for a fundamental shift in how domestic responsibilities are assigned within the home. Speaking at a Community Dialogue Series in Chorkor and Mamprobi, Dr. Lartey urged parents and community members to adopt equitable gender roles in child-rearing. She noted that traditional norms often impose excessive domestic burdens on girls, which directly undermines their educational opportunities and personal growth. By reassessing long-standing practices that assign household tasks based on sex, the Minister argued that families could help reduce school dropout rates and teenage pregnancies. Dr. Lartey stressed that a fair division of labor at home benefits both boys and girls, allowing for a more balanced development and a stronger focus on academic achievement. While girls face domestic barriers, boys in some regions are being drawn away from the classroom by the prospect of quick wealth. In the Bongo District, Chief Executive Diana Asoketarige Ayamga raised an alarm over a decline in school participation among boys, attributing the trend to their involvement in illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey. During her visit to local schools to mark the start of the academic year, Ayamga emphasized the urgent need for community support to reverse this trend. Beyond enrollment, she also voiced concerns regarding the nutritional standards of food sold to students, advocating for healthier options to support the physical and cognitive development of the pupils. In the Sissala West District, Member of Parliament Hon. Mohammed Adams Sukparu joined local educators to welcome new pupils and encourage perseverance. Sharing his personal journey from humble beginnings, Sukparu urged students to remain focused on their studies despite their circumstances. He specifically cautioned girls against distractions such as excessive mobile phone use, which can derail academic progress. While the MP provided refreshments and motivation to the students at Pulima and Silbelle Basic Schools, local education officials noted that attendance issues remain a persistent challenge that requires ongoing community intervention. These collective efforts highlight a multifaceted approach to improving Ghana's educational landscape through the government's social protection programs and local leadership engagement. By addressing the root causes of absenteeism—whether they be gender-based domestic expectations, the economic lure of galamsey, or digital distractions—officials aim to create an environment where all children have an equal opportunity to succeed. The success of these initiatives now rests on the willingness of parents and local communities to embrace these calls for change and prioritize long-term education over immediate domestic or financial gains.

Education Ministry cautions against forged school placement slips, refers case to Cyber Security Authority
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Ghana Education Service and Ministry of Education Alert Parents on School Placement Scams and EduPack Payment Disputes

The Ghana Education Service (GES) and the Ministry of Education have issued urgent warnings to parents and students regarding fraudulent activities surrounding the 2026 school placement exercise. As the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) process continues—with over half a million candidates already placed—officials have flagged the circulation of forged placement slips on social media. These altered documents, which feature mismatched barcodes and QR codes, have prompted the Ministry to refer the matter to the Cyber Security Authority for a full investigation. Authorities have emphasized that school placements are entirely free and have urged the public to rely solely on official CSSPS channels to avoid being misled by digital alterations. In addition to the forged documents, the GES has warned against a rising tide of scammers posing as officials from the Ministry, GES, or the Ghana TVET Service. These individuals reportedly claim they can secure or change school placements for a fee. The GES clarified that no legitimate educational body or school official requires payment for placement services. Parents and guardians who encounter such demands are encouraged to report these incidents immediately to the Ghana Police Service or the Office of the Special Prosecutor. This proactive stance is intended to protect families from financial exploitation during the high-pressure transition to Senior High School (SHS). Concurrently, a controversy has emerged regarding the distribution of "EduPack" packages, intended to provide essential items to SHS and Technical School (SHTS) students to mitigate issues like bedbug infestations. While the GES initiated distribution between August 1 and September 10, 2026, the National Council of Parents-Teachers Associations (NCPTA) has cautioned parents against paying GHS 1,617 to EduPack PGL for items such as trunks and mattresses. The NCPTA alleged that the company has misleadingly claimed official GES endorsement for these sales and reminded parents of their right to purchase such items from the open market. The Council has called for punitive measures against the company and any school heads facilitating unauthorized payment demands. Beyond administrative and financial concerns, the MISORNU Safety Centre has called for enhanced road safety measures to protect schoolchildren returning for the 2026/27 academic year. Citing distressing statistics on pedestrian knockdowns, the centre urged local authorities to reduce speed limits near schools and increase police presence in high-risk zones. In a separate development outside of education, the Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana (PAOG) has announced the immediate closure of payments for the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage. This move aims to align the number of confirmed pilgrims with the approved quota, preventing the oversubscription and administrative challenges that have impacted previous pilgrimages.